The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Scott’s goggles helped shape Scottish history
Panel draws up list of items that are important to Scotland
Snow goggles used by Captain Scott on his ill-fated voyage to Antarctica have been named as one of the objects which helped shape Scottish history.
Scott’s goggles, a simple design by today’s standards which protected his eyes from snow glare and howling winds, have been named in the list of 25 objects that shaped Scotland by an expert panel.
Other Courier Country antiquities made the list, with the Carpow Logboat and the Tom Morris Junior Medal also featuring.
The Tom Morris medal, which sits in place at the British Golf Museum in St Andrews, was awarded before the now-famous Claret Jug, which was still awaiting commission in 1872.
The Carpow Logboat, which dates back to around 1,000BC, was unearthed from the sand of the Tay Estuary in 2001 and now sits proudly in Perth Museum and Art Gallery.
The objects have been compiled into a new e-book, which details artefacts from across the country as part of Scotland’s year of history, heritage and archaeology.
RRS Discovery executive director Paul Jennings said: “It is brilliant that Captain Scott’s goggles have made this list.
“The British National Geographical Antarctic Expedition in 1901-04 was groundbreaking and the equipment used during this epic adventure was designed to last.
“RRS Discovery was built in Dundee, designed specifically for Antarctic research, the ship itself is of international significance, and a visit gives an insight into how these brave men coped in the harshest of conditions in one of the most inhospitable places on Earth.”
VisitScotland, who have curated the list, hopes museums and destinations where the objects are held will notice an increase in visitor numbers over the next 12 months, thanks to the e-book.
Judy Chance, museum manager at the British Golf Museum, said they were delighted to have the Tom Morris Jr medal included.
She said: “Tom Morris Jr was presented with this gold medal when he became Champion Golfer of the Year for the fourth time in 1872.
“The Open is golf’s oldest championship. Played since 1860 on iconic links golf courses, it is the sport’s most international major championship.”