Researchers from the University of Waterloo and Lakehead University in Sudbury have successfully used DNA samples to identify James Fitzjames, a second crew member of Sir John Franklin’s ill-fated 1845 Northwest Passage expedition. Fitzjames, one of the senior officers on the expedition, had attempted to lead the men to safety after the ships became locked in by ice in Nunavut. Unfortunately, none of the 105 men survived the ordeal, and their remains have been found scattered around King William Island over the years. The discovery of Fitzjames’ remains provides new insights into the expedition’s tragic end, shedding light on the desperate circumstances faced by the crew.
In addition to Fitzjames, the research team also identified John Gregory, an engineer aboard the HMS Erebus, in 2021. Historical accounts from the 1850s suggested that survivors of the expedition had resorted to cannibalism, a claim that was corroborated by the discovery of cut marks on human bones found at a site known as NgLj-2. A 3D scan of Fitzjames’ mandible revealed similar cut marks, further supporting the theory that cannibalism had occurred. These findings indicate that Fitzjames likely perished before some of the other sailors, and that in the final desperate days of the expedition, rank and status did not determine survival.
The University of Waterloo researchers emphasized the importance of meticulous archaeological research in uncovering the true story of the Franklin expedition. Despite the widespread interest and speculation surrounding the disappearance of the ships and crew over nearly two centuries, the researchers aim to shed light on the historical facts through their scientific investigations. While popular depictions of the expedition have turned it into a horror story with cannibalism as a central theme, the researchers contend that the reality is just as compelling and there is still much more to learn. They continue to search for and identify the remains of other expedition members, urging relatives to come forward for DNA testing.
Douglas Stenton, an adjunct professor of anthropology at Waterloo, expressed gratitude to the family of the descendant who provided the DNA sample that led to the identification of James Fitzjames. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with other descendants of Franklin expedition members to further identify individuals who perished during the ill-fated journey. Through their cutting-edge DNA analysis and archaeological research, the researchers hope to honor the memory of those who lost their lives and uncover the untold stories of the expedition. The identification of Fitzjames and Gregory marks a significant breakthrough in the ongoing effort to piece together the events that led to the tragic demise of the crew in the Arctic wilderness.
