May 18, 2026

Lost Franklin Expedition w/NEW UPDATES

54 minutes

This replay of episode 35 includes new updates! A 2026 research study has positively identified remains of four men from the Franklin Expedition using DNA analysis. Also, updates about what has been found at the wrecks of HMS Terror and HMS Erebus.

The Franklin Expedition of 1845 was a British voyage led by Sir John Franklin in an attempt to navigate the Northwest Passage, a coveted sea route through the Arctic. Comprising two ships, the HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, the expedition aimed to explore uncharted territories but tragically ended in disaster. The ships became trapped in ice off King William Island, and all the crew members perished. Despite numerous search missions, the fate of the expedition remained a mystery for over 150 years until the wrecks of the Erebus and Terror were discovered in 2014 and 2016 respectively, shedding light on the hardships faced by the crew, including exposure, starvation, and lead poisoning from poorly preserved food cans, contributing to their demise.

This episode was written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music is by â â â â â Sean Sigfriedâ â â â â .

**No AI was used during the production of this episode.**

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Shipwrecks and Sea Dogs is a maritime history podcast about shipwrecks, tragic loss, and incredible accomplishments on the world's oceans and waterways.

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By Rich Napolitano

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