Archibald McMurdo
Archibald McMurdo (24 September 1812 – 11 December 1875) was a British naval officer, after whom Antarctica's McMurdo Sound, McMurdo Station, McMurdo Ice Shelf, McMurdo Dry Valleys and McMurdo–South Pole Highway are named.
Archibald McMurdo | |
|---|---|
| Born | September 24, 1812 |
| Died | December 11, 1875 (aged 63) Cargenholm, Troqueer Parish, Kirkcudbrightshire |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Naval officer |
| Known for | Antarctic exploration |
Biography
McMurdo joined the Royal Navy on 6 October 1824, at the age of 12.[1] He achieved the rank of Lieutenant in 1836, Commander in 1843, and Captain in 1851.[1] His career included two discovery expeditions aboard HMS Terror, the first to north of Hudson Bay (1836-1837), the second to Antarctica (1840-1843).[1] During the latter, McMurdo Sound was discovered in February 1841 and named.[1]
McMurdo achieved command of HMS Contest in 1846, which was detailed to the coast of west Africa.[1] He retired as a rear-admiral[1] but was promoted in retirement to vice-admiral in 1873.[2]
McMurdo died at Cargenholm, Troqueer Parish, Kirkcudbrightshire on 11 December 1875. His estate was probated in Dumfries 3 February 1876.[3]
References
- William Loney RN - Background: "Archibald McMurdo, RN"
- "No. 23987". The London Gazette. 13 June 1873. p. 2833.
- England & Wales, National Probate Calendar (Index of Wills and Administrations), 1861–1941.