Johann August Miertsching (1817-1877)

Abstract

Miertsching learned the Eskimo language while serving at a Moravian mission at the Labrador station of Ogkak. He was directed by his order to serve as interpreter for the British Admiralty on an Arctic discovery ship searching for the Sir John Franklin expedition. Miertsching remained with Captain McClure for five years, in spite of having been assigned to the ship of Captain Collinson. Collinson, who went to Victoria Island, could probably have discovered Franklin's fate had he had an interpreter capable of questioning the natives of the Island. Such was not to be the case, however. Miertsching's portrayal of the dangers and suffering inflicted on the crew during this five year epic are dramatic and unrestrained. They are corroborated by the surgeon Armstrong who also served on this ship.