Linnean Learning

In the late 1800s, Frank Edwards, a Victorian gentlemen, found himself shanghaied aboard the whaling ship the Abram Barker. Frank kept a daily diary of his year out at sea, in which he gives a detailed account of the ship’s activities and his own personal struggles. Given to us by his descendants, the diary is now in the safe keeping of The Linnean Society of London’s collections. This podcast outlines the historical views held about whales as ‘monsters’ and as a valuable Victorian commodity. It also delves into the worrying impact whaling has had on global whale populations, lingering even today, and what the uncertain future holds for these giant creatures of the sea. Co-produced and directed by: Ross Ziegelmeier and Leonie Berwick Voice actor (Frank Edwards): William Ewart Speakers: Ruth Edwards and Mark Peter Simmonds OBE Choir: Owl Parliament