GATINEAU, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - April 16, 2015) - Library and Archives Canada

Library and Archives Canada (LAC) is pleased to announce that it has purchased four watercolours by Robert Hood, a British officer who participated from 1819 to 1821 in an Arctic overland expedition to map the Coppermine River as part of the search for the Northwest Passage.

A significant addition to LAC's existing holdings of Robert Hood's work, this acquisition provides historical context and documents a key expedition in Canada's Arctic history, the first by the famous British explorer Sir John Franklin.

Quick facts

• LAC has Canada's only public collection of Robert Hood's drawings.
• LAC paid just under $90,000 to acquire the watercolours.
• All four of these drawings relay important documentary evidence about the Cumberland House region in northern Saskatchewan.
• The new acquisition is a valuable addition to other Arctic treasures in LAC's collection that include a sketchbook by George Back, a naval officer, artist, and faithful companion to Franklin and Hood.
• LAC will make these holdings accessible to ensure that Canadians across the country can benefit from this significant acquisition.

Quotes

"The Franklin expeditions are an important part of Canada's history. These watercolours strengthen LAC's position as a leading repository of historic Arctic exploration and a prime source for Canadians interested in learning more about this exciting era."

-Dr. Guy Berthiaume, Librarian and Archivist of Canada-Library and Archives Canada

Associated links

Read LAC's blog to learn more about this new acquisition.

View related items from our collection:

• Flickr album on the 1845 Franklin expedition

• Flickr album on George Back

About Library and Archives Canada

The mandate of Library and Archives Canada is to preserve the documentary heritage of Canada for the benefit of present and future generations, and to be a source of enduring knowledge accessible to all, thereby contributing to the cultural, social and economic advancement of Canada. Library and Archives Canada also facilitates co-operation among communities involved in the acquisition, preservation and diffusion of knowledge, and serves as the continuing memory of the Government of Canada and its institutions. Stay connected with Library and Archives Canada on Twitter (@LibraryArchives), Facebook, Flickr and YouTube.