After nearly two centuries, a team of underwater archaeologists cracked one of the greatest maritime mysteries in Canadian history. In September, the team announced the discovery of a British vessel — identified in October as the HMS Erebus — that was one of a pair to disappear while attempting to chart the Canadian Arctic’s Northwest Passage in 1845.
Experts believe ice trapped the Erebus and the HMS Terror in 1846, dooming the 128 crewmen and their leader, explorer Sir John Franklin. Parks Canada researchers finally located the vessel with a remotely operated underwater vehicle.
Although the Terror has yet to be found, the well-preserved Erebus wreckage could provide clues to its location, as well as offer insight into the crews’ last days.
