BHM-Matthew Henson
February 14, 2024 10:17AM CST
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KGNC Pays Tribute to Black History Month.
Matthew Henson (1866-1955) was a clerk in a hat shop when he met Robert Peary. He was a valet to Peary on a trip to Nicaragua.
He soon became a regular member of Peary’s travels, including many attempts to reach the North Pole.
On April 6, 1909, Peary, Henson, and four Esquimaux finally reached the North Pole (Although recent research suggests they were a few miles short)
Henson’s role in the accomplishment was largely overlooked until 1944 when he and other members of the expedition were awarded a Congressional Medal.
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