James Simpson (explorer) facts for kids
Cortlandt James Woore Simpson (born September 2, 1911, died May 9, 2002) was an English explorer and naval officer. He was known for his journeys to the Arctic. He also served in the Royal Navy for many years.
Early Life and Family
Cortlandt Simpson was born in Westbourne, Sussex. He came from a family with a strong naval background. His grandfather and father were both important officers in the Royal Navy. Their family home was in Stoke-by-Nayland, Suffolk, for many years.
Interestingly, his great-grandfather, John Busby, and great-uncle, James Busby, helped start the famous Australian wine industry.
Simpson joined the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth and became an officer in the Royal Navy. After serving on several ships, he left the navy in 1936. He wanted to study electrical engineering at the University of London.
He returned to the Royal Navy in 1939. This was at the start of World War II. He worked as an electrical officer. He was also a specialist in finding submarines. He served on destroyer ships during the war.
In 1945, he received an award called the Distinguished Service Cross. This award recognized his bravery and service. He retired from the Royal Navy in 1961.
Exploring Greenland
One of Simpson's most famous achievements was leading the British North Greenland expedition. This expedition took place from 1952 to 1954. The team set up a research station called North Ice. It was located on the huge ice sheet of Greenland.
This expedition helped scientists learn a lot about the Arctic. For his leadership, Simpson received a special award. He was given the Patron's Gold Medal from the Royal Geographical Society in 1955.
