WITH SCOTT BEFORE THE MAST
The Journals of Francis Davies, Leading Shipwright RN when on board Captain Scott’s Terra Nova Expedition
Almost 110 years have passed since the British Antarctic Expedition 1910–13 returned to Cardiff, yet its fascinating story still springs surprises. While living in Plymouth, Joy Yates found herself the family custodian of a seaman’s trunk, owned by her great uncle, Francis Davies, himself a Plymouth man. Therein were countless items: photos, letters, bric-à-brac and memorabilia linked to voyages aboard the SS Terra Nova and the 1910–13 expedition. A true maritime treasure chest.
Among these belongings was Davies’ own written account, With Scott Before the Mast, describing his time with Scott’s expedition. Illustrated with the many items and photographs found in his sea-trunk, Yates has edited his story in this beautifully prepared book.
Davies, a leading shipwright for the Royal Navy, had been appointed by Scott himself and was soon to show his worthiness as the expedition’s ‘jack of all trades and master of all’. In his famous book The Worst Journey in the World (published in 1922), Apsley Cherry-Garrard writes in Chapter 1V: ‘Davies, who was “Chippy Chap the Carpenter” deserves much credit. He was leading shipwright in the navy, always willing and bright, and with a very thorough knowledge of his job. I have seen him called up hour after hour, day and night on the ship, when the pumps were blocked by the coal balls which formed in the bilges, and he always arrived with a smile on his face. Altogether he was one of our most useful men.’
From his preparatory work aboard ship before leaving London to the terrible storm in the Southern Ocean during which a hole had to be cut through a steel bulkhead to gain access to the pumps, Davies’ contribution to the expedition was clearly considerable. There was also the assembly and building of the huts at Cape Evans, as well as the shaping of the memorial cross erected on Observation Hill.
Davies went on to serve in the Royal Navy during both world wars. In the Second World War, he tragically lost his only son, Peter Pennell, named after Harry Pennell, navigator and relief captain of the Terra Nova, who was killed at the Battle of Jutland. His story is well worth reading and this book is a must-have addition to any library of polar books.