Thomas Crean

Thomas Crean (July 20, 1877 – July 27, 1938) was one of the greatest Irish explorers in history! Known for his courage and physical prowess, he was an Antarctic explorer. In short, a true adventurer, earning him 3 polar medals and an impeccable reputation!

Thomas Crean biography

An adventurer in search of the great white thrill!

Tom Crean is a child of the Irish countryside. Born in Annascaul, County Kerry, he set his sights high from an early age. His dearest wish? Escape, travel… Everything is an excuse to escape from everyday life.

He joined the Royal Navy at the age of 15. Lying about his age to facilitate his admission, he was finally selected to take part in 3 of the 4 major British expeditions to Antarctica during this period:

The first 2 (from 1901 to 1904 on the Discovery and from 1911 to 1913 on the Terra Nova) were led by Robert Scott, whose aim was to reach the South Pole and observe the local ecosystem. During these expeditions, Crean showed great courage by walking alone over 56km across the ice barrier to rescue Edward Evans. His courage earned him the Albert medal.
The third expedition lasted from 1914 to 1916. She was led by Ernest Shackleton on the Endurance, and Crean was his first mate. Unfortunately, the expedition was extremely difficult, and the crew suffered many setbacks. The Endurance was encircled by pack ice, drifting for months in the ice, trying to reach Elephant Island, and ultimately completing a journey of over 1,500km in slow motion.

A figure of courage and uprightness, Thomas Crean was awarded 3 polar medals. At the end of these expeditions, he returned to the Royal Navy, but interrupted his career in 1920 to return to Annascaul in County Kerry, Ireland.

He opened a tavern called the “South Pole Inn”, which he ran with his wife Ellen Crean. He even decided to create his own beer, Crean’s, which is still served today in local Kerry Irish pubs!

Calmed down, and now able to live a quieter life, Thomas Crean lived happily in Annascaul until his death in 1938.

He leaves behind the image of a colorful, passionate and courageous adventurer, capable of surpassing his limits for the sake of science!