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British naval officer and explorer (1868–1912) best known for the two expeditions he led to the Antarctic in 1901–1904 and 1910–1913. During the second of these, the Terra Nova Expedition, extreme weather, poor health, and a shortage of supplies led to the death of Scott and his party. ALS signed “Robt. F. Scott,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 3.75 x 6, H.M.S. Majestic, Channel Squadron letterhead, July 21 [1900]. Letter to Admiral Markham, himself a well-known polar explorer. In full: “I have received the sail plan many thanks—They seem very satisfactory but I have actually not the time to go into them thoroughly till after maneuvers. In addition to some…other schemes they have planted wireless telegraphy on us at 2 days notice. It has meant & will mean a great deal of work so that I scarcely see a free moment till the maneuvers are over and I am set at large. The promotion has been a great blessing. Hoping you have a pleasant time in Scotland.” In fine condition, with small areas of adhesive remnant along either side of the top of the inside hinge.
Before becoming an honored and well-respected hero in the eyes of the British for leading his crew to their 1912 demise in frozen wastelands of the Antarctic, Scott was named commander of the 1901–1904 Discovery Expedition in May 1900, the first official British exploration of the Antarctic regions in more than 60 years and one that sought out scientific research and geographic exploration of a then-largely untouched continent. It is that “great blessing” to which Scott refers in this letter, penned just two months later. The impending mission would have been at the very fore of Scott's mind during this period. Unique historic context from one of Great Britain’s honored dead whose name became inseparably associated with Antarctic exploration. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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