In a recently completed review of over 3,000 Curatorial accession files, funded by a grant awarded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, materials related to Josephine Diebitsch Peary (1863 – 1955) have been revealed. Josephine Diebitsch Peary, the focus of these cases, had previously been referenced in files and records as the wife of Admiral Robert E. Peary, a well-known American explorer whose Arctic accomplishments, including being the first to reach the North Pole (contested by some), are well documented and supported by Museum collection objects and manuscript materials. The information in the files recognizes Peary as a mother, author, and Arctic adventurer in her own right.
Objects in this pop-up exhibit are presented as examples of Arctic and Greenlandic culture. Most have never before been exhibited. All are examples of objects mentioned in Diebitsch Peary’s books.
Curated by Dr. Paul Goodwin, Project Volunteer, and Nancy Seager, Project Archivist, 2024