BRITAIN’S EVEREST CLIMBERS LEAVE: 1953: ORIGINAL PRESS PHOTOGRAPH

Publisher: P.A. Reuter, UK
Price: £400.00
Date: February 12th, 1953
Photograph Size: 15.2cm x 20cm including margin
Format: Original gelatin silver press photograph. Original copyright of P. A. Reuter Ltd, London, UK.
Edition: Not stated.
Special Features: This photograph is stamped and dated on the reverse with copyright information and a detailed description of the image.
Condition: The photograph is in very good condition. There is slight creasing and a mark from a paperclip. The back features stamps and a description, ensuring cast-iron provenance and authenticity.

Description:

This poignant photograph captures a key moment as Britain’s Everest climbers prepare to leave for the historic 1953 expedition. The image shows Dr. M. Ward, M. Westmacott, Major Charles G. Wylie, G. C. Band and T. Stobart at Tilbury before boarding the P & O liner Stratheden, en-route for the Himalaya. This scene marks the beginning of an expedition that would culminate in the first confirmed ascent of Mount Everest. Mr Westmacott said: ‘I think we have the best chance of all of getting to the top of Everest’.

Historical Context:

The 1953 Everest Expedition, led by Sir John Hunt, was a pivotal event in the history of mountaineering. On May 29, 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay achieved the first successful summit of Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth.

Dr. Michael Ward: A Short Biography

Dr. Michael Ward (1925–2005) was a renowned British mountaineer and medical doctor, notable for his pioneering contributions to high-altitude medicine and Himalayan exploration. Born on March 26, 1925, Ward developed an early interest in climbing and the outdoors, which he pursued alongside his medical career.

Ward’s most significant achievements include his role as the chief medical officer in the successful 1953 British Mount Everest expedition, which saw Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay make the first confirmed ascent of the world’s highest peak. His expertise in high-altitude physiology was instrumental in addressing the medical challenges faced by climbers at extreme altitudes.

In addition to his mountaineering accomplishments, Ward conducted important research on the effects of high altitudes on the human body, helping to advance the understanding of altitude sickness and other related conditions. He was a key figure in promoting the use of supplemental oxygen in high-altitude climbing, a practice that greatly increased the safety and success rates of subsequent expeditions.

Dr. Michael Ward’s contributions to both medicine and mountaineering were widely recognised. He authored several influential papers and books on the subject, and his work continues to be a reference for climbers and medical professionals dealing with high-altitude conditions. He passed away on October 21, 2005, leaving behind a legacy of scientific inquiry and exploration in the world’s highest mountains.

Michael Westmacott: A Short Biography

Michael Westmacott (1925–2012) was a prominent British mountaineer known for his significant role in the 1953 British Mount Everest expedition, which resulted in the first confirmed ascent of the world’s highest peak. Born on April 12, 1925, Westmacott developed a passion for climbing during his studies at Cambridge University, where he became an active member of the university’s mountaineering club.

As a member of the historic 1953 Everest expedition, led by Sir John Hunt, Westmacott was responsible for establishing key camps and preparing the route up the mountain. His work included fixing ropes and ladders in the challenging Khumbu Icefall, one of the most dangerous sections of the ascent. His efforts were crucial in enabling the team to progress safely and efficiently, ultimately leading to the successful summit by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay on May 29, 1953.

Beyond his contributions to the Everest expedition, Westmacott had a distinguished career as a civil engineer. He worked on various infrastructure projects in the UK and abroad, applying his technical expertise and problem-solving skills.

Michael Westmacott’s legacy in mountaineering is marked by his dedication to teamwork and his technical contributions to one of the most significant achievements in the history of exploration. He passed away on June 20, 2012, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and adventure.

Charles G. Wylie: A Short Biography

Charles G. Wylie (1919-2007) was a British mountaineer and army officer known for his significant contributions to early Himalayan exploration. He played a crucial role in the history of mountaineering, particularly as a member of key expeditions to Mount Everest.

Wylie was born in 1919 and developed an interest in climbing and exploration during his early years. His mountaineering career is most notably marked by his involvement in the 1953 British Mount Everest expedition, which successfully led to the first confirmed ascent of the world’s highest peak. Wylie served as a logistics officer for the expedition, contributing significantly to the planning and coordination efforts that ensured the team’s success.

Beyond his role in the Everest expedition, Charles Wylie had a distinguished career in the British Army, achieving the rank of Colonel. He was also known for his work as a training officer, helping to prepare future generations of climbers and military personnel.

Wylie’s contributions to mountaineering, particularly in the organisational and logistical aspects of expeditions, have been recognised as vital to the success of several significant climbs during the mid-20th century. He passed away in 2007, leaving behind a legacy in both military service and the world of high-altitude exploration.

George C. Band: A Short Biography

George C. Band (1929–2011) was a renowned British mountaineer and geologist, celebrated for his role in some of the most significant Himalayan expeditions of the 20th century. Born on February 2, 1929, Band developed a keen interest in climbing during his youth and became an accomplished mountaineer by the time he attended Cambridge University.

Band is perhaps best known for his participation in the 1953 British Mount Everest expedition, which achieved the first confirmed ascent of Everest. As the youngest member of the team, Band played a crucial role in supporting the climbers and establishing critical high-altitude camps. While he did not summit Everest himself, his contributions were vital to the overall success of the expedition, which saw Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reach the summit on May 29, 1953.

In 1955, Band achieved another significant milestone in mountaineering by becoming one of the first climbers to reach the summit of Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. This expedition, led by Charles Evans, marked the first successful ascent of Kangchenjunga, with Band and his climbing partner Joe Brown stopping just short of the summit out of respect for the local Sikkimese belief that the peak was sacred.

Beyond his climbing achievements, George Band had a successful career as a geologist and was active in mountaineering organisations, including the Alpine Club and the Royal Geographical Society. He authored several books on his experiences and mountaineering history, contributing to the literature on Himalayan exploration.

George C. Band passed away on August 26, 2011, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering climber and respected geologist. His achievements continue to inspire generations of mountaineers and adventurers.

Tom Stobart: A Short Biography

Tom Stobart (1914–1980) was a British filmmaker, author, and mountaineer, renowned for his work in documenting and sharing the stories of some of the most famous Himalayan expeditions of the mid-20th century. Born on March 10, 1914, Stobart developed an early passion for adventure and exploration, which he channelled into a successful career as a filmmaker.

Stobart is best known for his role in the 1953 British Mount Everest expedition, where he served as the official filmmaker. His work was crucial in capturing the historic ascent of Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. Stobart’s footage provided a visual record of the expedition, including the climbers’ journey through the Khumbu Icefall, the establishment of high-altitude camps, and the final push to the summit. His film, “The Conquest of Everest,” released later that year, became an iconic documentary, providing audiences worldwide with a vivid portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of high-altitude mountaineering.

Stobart’s contributions went beyond filmmaking; he was also an active participant in the expedition, helping with various logistical tasks and supporting the climbers. His experience and skills were invaluable to the team, particularly in dealing with the technical challenges of filming in extreme conditions.

In addition to his work on the Everest expedition, Tom Stobart was an accomplished author and continued to produce documentaries on various subjects, including wildlife and travel. His books and films often explored themes of exploration, nature, and human endurance.

Tom Stobart passed away on November 28, 1980, leaving a lasting legacy as a pioneer in adventure filmmaking and a key figure in documenting one of the most significant achievements in mountaineering history. His work remains an essential resource for those interested in the history of Everest and high-altitude exploration.

Location: Map drawer C: Folder: 3002

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