I Love History
"Because it's there." - George Mallory, when asked why he wanted to climb Mt. Everest.
Ninety four years ago today George Mallory and Andrew Irvine, two explorers from the 1924 British expedition to Mt. Everest, disappeared into the mists atop the mountain; never to return.
Their story still fascinates me.
Even after many attempts to re-trace their steps, mystery continues to surround what became of the men.
It's wondered whether or not it was possible for Mallory to have reached the summit due to his lack of oxygen, time, and unspectacular cold weather attire.
His body was found in 1999, but the camera he was reputedly carrying could not be located.
Nor was the picture of his wife he carried. The photo he vowed to leave at the summit should he reach it. His other effects were in the same condition they were the day he died, they hadn't aged a day.
Irvine has never been found, and is thought to now be part of the glacier below the mountain.
George and Andrew may not have returned from their quest, but I find their spirit of exploration, and their tenacity at trying to achieve what had never been done enduring.
Ninety four years ago today George Mallory and Andrew Irvine, two explorers from the 1924 British expedition to Mt. Everest, disappeared into the mists atop the mountain; never to return.
Their story still fascinates me.
Even after many attempts to re-trace their steps, mystery continues to surround what became of the men.
It's wondered whether or not it was possible for Mallory to have reached the summit due to his lack of oxygen, time, and unspectacular cold weather attire.
His body was found in 1999, but the camera he was reputedly carrying could not be located.
Nor was the picture of his wife he carried. The photo he vowed to leave at the summit should he reach it. His other effects were in the same condition they were the day he died, they hadn't aged a day.
Irvine has never been found, and is thought to now be part of the glacier below the mountain.
George and Andrew may not have returned from their quest, but I find their spirit of exploration, and their tenacity at trying to achieve what had never been done enduring.
