Inscription
In memory of Lieut JOHN IRVING, RN, HM Ship Terror
Born 1815, died in King William’s Land 1848-9
Her Majesty’s ships Erebus and Terror left England in May 1945 under command of Sir John Franklin KCB to explore a North West Passage to the Pacific
After wintering 1845-6 at Beechey Island they sailed south down Franklin’s Strait and entered the N.W. Passage.
Having been there beset with ice for two years, Sir J Franklin & other Officers and 15 Seamen having died the survivors, 105 in number, Lieut Irving being one, landed on King William’s Land and attempted to march to Canada but all died from cold and want of food.
In 1879 Lieut Schwatka of the American searching expedition discovered Lieut Irving’s grave. Through his kindness the remains of this brave and good office were brought away and were deposited here on 7th January 1881.
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ shall tribulation or distress – or famine”.
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