Follow the brown signs

An original and fascinating museum decicated to 3 men, The first was Gilbert White, born in 1720 and the local Vicar. An isatiably curious man who was absolutely fascinated by the natural world around him, white recorded everything in his letters which he later published as a book, The Natural Histories and Antiquities of Selbourne, now famous and much loved not only for its intricate observations but also for its portrayal of his idylic corner of the English countryside, it has never been out of print since its first publication in 1789.

The second man is Frank Oates who in 1871 visited the Americas in an attempt to re-establish his health.  On display is a stunning display of Central American birds collected from his travels there.  The Gallery also details his fateful journey to Africa, begun in 1873, with displays of various artefacts and specimens he collected during his trek from Durban, through Natal, Transvaal and finally to Matebeleland and the Victoria Falls.

best remembered as the brave Antarctic hero of Captain Robert Scott’s team to undertake the epic journey of discovery to the South Pole 1911-12. The ill-fated expedition turned into a race for the pole when the explorers learnt of the presence of the Norwegian team led by Admundsen. After severe frost bite and worsening ill health Oates sacrificed his life in the hope of saving his comrades, leaving the tent in a terrible blizzard with the famous last words “I am just going outside and may be some time.” The gallery is a comprehensive and moving exploration of the man and the expedition and is absolutely outstanding.

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