BYRD’S EXPEDITION

Hokitika Guardian, 27 November 1928, Page 6

BYRD’S EXPEDITION

CfTY OF NEW YORK ARRIVES

(By Telegraph—Press Association)

DUNEDIN, November 26

After a fine-weather passage ol three months Ifrom New York, the Byrd expedition ship, City of New Aork, arrived at Port Chalmers, with Captain Melville in command of a <‘i , eiv conl ' posed of sailors, many of whom arc oil their maiden voyage. Captain Melville, who has visited Now Zealand on a number of occasions in sailing vessels, says that he ue\oi was aboard a better sea boat, and lie anticipates no serious difficulties in Ihc ice trip to Ross Sea, which will fake three weeks. Thirty-three men all told are aboard, manv being scientists. H. Harrison is the * aerologist, Frank Davies magnetic expert, G. 11. Blackhead tractor instructor, L. K. Greenlic radio operator (he was with Byrd in the North Pole expedition), and Dr Francis Cowan, associated with one of tho foremost research institutions in America. I"o of the three radio operators are loaned by the United States Navy Department. Of the three lads who stowed away, Robert Lanier is the lucky one. He is a negro orphan,', and wants to be the first black fellow to get to the South Polo.

The vessel decked for 'cleaning nml inspection. A number of the seamen will serve in the shore party as tractor operators, dog drivers, ski experts, and ice pilots. .