Records of Captain Clapperton's last expedition to Africa, Vol. 1 (of 2)
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- 17 chapters
"Records of Captain Clapperton's last expedition to Africa, Vol. 1 (of 2)" by Lander is a historical travel account written in the early 19th century. It offers a firsthand chronicle of an overland expedition from the West African coast into the interior, blending day‑to‑day travel hardships with close observations of local customs, politics, and the slave trade. The narrative centers on Captain Hugh Clapperton’s push toward Yoruba and Hausaland as seen through the eyes of his attendant Richard Lander, who records both the journey and the fates of the small party. The opening of the work sets out Lander’s purpose in rewriting and expanding his notes, the obstacles to note‑taking in hostile settings, and his intent to portray African society (from Falatah power to songs, laws, and superstition) alongside vivid character sketches such as Zuma and the interpreter Pasko; it also recounts his deep bond with Clapperton and a planned return to West Africa with his brother. A brief life sketch traces Lander’s Cornish origins, early wanderlust, voyages to the West Indies and South Africa, and his resolve to join Clapperton despite warnings. The narrative then follows the embarkation on HMS Brazen, stops at Madeira, Tenerife, and the Cape Verdes, the pursuit and capture of slavers, and arrival at Sierra Leone, before turning east along the coast to Accra, Papoe (where 231 enslaved people are freed), and Whydah, where Dr. Dickson goes inland (later rumored killed). After a perilous surf landing at Badagry and an audience with King Adólee, the party advances by creeks and forest paths through Yoruba towns; illness strikes repeatedly, culminating at Jannah in Lander’s delirium and brutal treatment, and Morrison’s return toward the coast. Soon after, Dawson dies from accidentally drinking ether, Captain Pearce succumbs to fever and is buried with a simple inscription, and news arrives that Dr. Morrison has also died—leaving the survivors to press on toward the interior.
- Sudan (Region) · Description and travel
- Clapperton, Hugh, 1788-1827
