This one is a little different. In it, I read the first chapter of “A Negro Explorer at the North Pole” by Matthew A. Henson, published in 1909.

Matthew Alexander Henson was an African American explorer who accompanied Robert Peary on seven voyages to the Arctic. On the expedition that reached the geographic North Pole on April 6, 1909, Henson was reported to be the first person to reach the pole.

Some question the veracity of this claim, but there’s no doubt that Henson was an adventurer who risked life and limb to explore wild, uncharted landscapes. 

If you’re thinking travel is perilous these days, let Henson’s story give you some inspiration, encouragement and perspective!

Listen to episode 9

On Second Thought

I have some thoughts about Matthew Henson’s relationship with Robert Peary and with the people that they both met in the Arctic region.

Watch my take on YouTube! And let me know what you think.

More About Matthew Henson

Read “A Negro Explorer at the North Pole” – Library of Congress

Matthew Henson, Arctic Traveller – Nunatsiaq News

Too “Young” Now for Arctic Exploration, He Was With Peary on 8 Expeditions, Raised Flag at Pole – Vineyard Gazette, March 25, 1939