FRANKLIN, SIR JOHN

(1786-1847), Eng. explorer; first discoverer of N.W. pa age to Pacific; 6. Spilsby, Lincoln shire; early resolved to be a sailor; served as midshipman in battle of Copenhagen, 1801; spent some time under training of Captain Flinders in exploration and mapping of Australian coasts; at Trafalgar was on board Bellerophon; became lieut., 1808; took part in blockade of Flushing, and distinguished himself in expedition against New Orleans, 1814. F. commanded overland expedition from Hudson Bay to Arctic Sea, 1819; became commander, 1821, and obtained post rank of captain, 1822; headed another N overland expedition, 1826, and traced Amer. coast as far as 149° 37’ W. long.; knighted, 1829, and received other honors; was lieut-goy. of Van fostering social and political advancement of colony; d. June 1847 pe ill-fated expedition for discovery of N.W. pa age to Pacific.