Newburgh library to host lecture on Celtic explorers

NEWBURGH - Author, explorer and Celtic historian Steve Blamires, originally from the Isle of Arran, Scotland, and now a Beacon resident, will speak about often-overlooked, heroic Irish explorer Tom Crean at 7 p.m. May 12 in the upstairs auditorium at the Newburgh Free Library, 124 Grand St. 

Exactly 100 years ago, Ireland’s 1916 Easter Uprising broke out and resulted in a violent failure. At the same time in Antarctica, three Irishmen set sail in a tiny open lifeboat, attempting an impossible sea-crossing across the roughest seas on Earth in order to save themselves and their companions. Most people remember Irishmen Sir Ernest Shackleton who led the expedition and is lauded as a hero today. But Shackleton and the rest of his crew owe everything to fellow Irishman Tom Crean, a veteran of Antarctic exploration, whose physical and psychological strength combined with an unshakeable optimism were the keys to the success of this epic rescue. 

Now, 100 years later, Blamires believes it is time to take an in-depth look at Tom Crean: the man, the explorer, the hero of not one but several Antarctic rescues. Blamires’ lecture, “Celtic Explorers,” will shine a spotlight on Crean’s heroic acts and momentous achievements, as well as delve into the reasons why Tom Crean has been called the greatest unsung hero of the Golden Age of Exploration. 

No registration is required. “Celtic Explorers” is free and open to all. 

For more information about library programs, call 563-3618.