SIR EDMUND HILLARY: HONEYMOONING EVEREST CONQUEROR HERE FOR ROYAL LECTURE, SEPT 12TH 1953: ORIGINAL PRESS PHOTOGRAPH

Publisher: P.A. Reuter, UK
Price: £250.00
Date: September 12th, 1953
Photograph Size: 15cm x 20.4cm
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 near fine, clean condition. The reverse side is very slightly age-toned and features stamps and descriptions, providing provenance and authenticity.

Description:

This rare photograph captures Sir Edmund Hillary, the legendary mountaineer, with his new wife, Lady Louise Hillary, shortly after his historic ascent of Mount Everest. Taken on September 12th, 1953, this image shows Hillary during his honeymoon in London. The couple were in Great Britain for Sir Edmund to give a series of lectures on the ascent of the mountain, one of which was expected to be attended by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. The photograph symbolizes the global recognition and acclaim he received following the successful 1953 Everest Expedition.

Historical Context:

The 1953 Everest Expedition, led by Sir John Hunt, was a landmark event in mountaineering history. The successful ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay on May 29, 1953, was a defining moment, symbolizing human endurance and exploration. This photograph captures a post-expedition celebration, reflecting the international acclaim and recognition the climbers received for their remarkable accomplishment.

Sir Edmund Hillary: A Brief Biography

Sir Edmund Hillary (1919–2008) was a New Zealand mountaineer, explorer, and philanthropist, renowned for being one of the first two climbers, along with Tenzing Norgay, to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Born in Auckland, New Zealand, Hillary developed a passion for climbing in his youth, scaling New Zealand’s Southern Alps and honing his skills in preparation for greater challenges.

Conquest of Everest
Hillary’s most notable achievement came on May 29, 1953, when he and Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth at 8,848 metres (29,029 feet). This historic ascent was part of a British expedition led by Sir John Hunt. The achievement brought Hillary international acclaim and established him as a leading figure in the world of exploration and mountaineering.

Later Life and Legacy
After his triumph on Everest, Hillary continued to explore, including expeditions to the South Pole and the Ganges River. He also dedicated much of his life to philanthropy, particularly in Nepal, where he founded the Himalayan Trust. This organization built schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, significantly improving the lives of the Sherpa community.

For his contributions to exploration and humanitarian efforts, Hillary received numerous honours, including a knighthood in 1953. His legacy is celebrated worldwide, and he remains an iconic figure in the annals of mountaineering history. Sir Edmund Hillary’s life story is one of adventure, determination, and a deep commitment to helping others.

Lady Louise Hillary: A Brief Biography

Lady Louise Hillary was the first wife of Sir Edmund Hillary, the renowned New Zealand mountaineer and explorer. Born in New Zealand, she married Edmund Hillary in 1953, shortly after his historic ascent of Mount Everest. Louise was an integral part of Hillary’s life, supporting him in his numerous expeditions and philanthropic endeavours. She was also an accomplished musician.

Life and Contributions
While Sir Edmund became famous for his mountaineering achievements, Louise Hillary contributed significantly to their shared humanitarian efforts. Together, they were involved in various projects to improve the lives of the Sherpa people in Nepal, including the construction of schools and hospitals through the Himalayan Trust, an organization founded by Edmund Hillary.

Tragic Accident and Legacy
Tragically, Louise Hillary’s life was cut short in 1975 when she and their younger daughter, Belinda, died in a plane crash in Nepal while en-route to join Sir Edmund in Phaplu. The loss was a profound blow to Sir Edmund Hillary and the family, yet he continued their shared work in Nepal, honouring June’s memory through continued humanitarian efforts.

Lady Louise Hillary is remembered for her quiet strength, compassion, and support of Sir Edmund’s work, both in mountaineering and in improving the lives of the Himalayan communities they came to love.

Location: Map drawer C: Folder: 3002

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