Richard Collinson

General Doctor Jules Voncken (Belgium), Co-Founder and Secretary General of the International Committee of Military Medicine from 1921 until 1975

First International Assembly of Medical Services of the Armies, Navies and Air Forces, July 1921, Belgium

Richard Collinson (7 November 1811 – 13 September 1883) was a British Royal Navy officer and explorer who is best known for his command of one of the ships sent to the Arctic in search of Sir John Franklin's lost expedition. Collinson's career in the Royal Navy and his subsequent Arctic explorations were significant in the mid-19th century efforts to chart the then-unknown regions of the Arctic.

Early Life and Naval Career

Richard Collinson was born in Gatehouse of Fleet, Kirkcudbrightshire, Scotland. He joined the Royal Navy in 1823, at the age of 12, and quickly rose through the ranks. Throughout his early career, Collinson served on various ships and in several parts of the world, gaining valuable naval and maritime experience.

Franklin Search Expedition

In 1850, Collinson was given command of HMS Enterprise, as part of an expedition to locate Sir John Franklin's party, which had disappeared while attempting to chart and navigate the Northwest Passage. Collinson's ship, along with HMS Investigator, commanded by Captain Robert McClure, were to enter the Arctic from the Pacific side. Despite the challenging ice conditions, Collinson managed to navigate through the Bering Strait and explored parts of the Arctic previously unseen by Europeans.

Collinson's meticulous charting and surveying work during this expedition contributed significantly to the understanding of the Arctic geography. Although he did not find Franklin or his crew, his efforts were recognized as an important contribution to Arctic exploration. Collinson's expedition is notable for its scientific achievements, including detailed observations of the Arctic environment, wildlife, and indigenous peoples.

Later Life

After returning from the Arctic, Collinson continued to serve in the Royal Navy, achieving the rank of Vice-Admiral before his retirement. He was awarded several honors for his service and contributions to exploration, including the Royal Geographical Society's Founder's Medal in 1858.

Richard Collinson died on 13 September 1883 in Ealing, London, leaving behind a legacy of naval service and exploration. His work in the Arctic remains a significant chapter in the history of polar exploration.

Legacy

Collinson's contributions to Arctic exploration and the search for the Northwest Passage are commemorated in various ways. Geographic features in the Arctic, such as Collinson Inlet, bear his name, serving as a testament to his efforts and achievements in the field of exploration.

See Also

• John Franklin
• Northwest Passage
• Royal Navy
• Arctic exploration