Medal presentation reveals author immodesty
Stefansson Medal
Can I let this splendid honour go unremarked in this humble space? A better man might be able to do that. But, no, predictably, I cannot.
Here we see Jett Britnell, chair of the Canadian Chapter of The Explorers Club, presenting me with the Stefansson Medal at Hemingway’s in downtown Toronto. As you can see, I enjoyed this event immensely. I enjoyed getting to know Jett. I enjoyed the club members who came out. I enjoyed visiting with family members Carlin, Sylwia, and Keriann (who took these photos).
I enjoyed the dedication by David Byng, chair of the Flags and Honours Committee, who wrote: “Ken McGoogan is a distinguished author, historian, and researcher whose work has profoundly shaped the public and academic understanding of Arctic exploration. Through his extensive publications, field research, and public engagement, he has elevated key historical figures such as John Rae and challenged conventional narratives surrounding Arctic discovery. His books, including Fatal Passage, Dead Reckoning, and Searching for Franklin, have brought renewed attention to the complexities of Arctic history and exploration.
“Beyond his literary and historical contributions, McGoogan has been actively involved in field-based historical research, including expeditions to Arctic sites and the placement of a John Rae memorial plaque
in the High Arctic. His work has been recognized with numerous literary and historical awards, underscoring his lasting impact on Canadian exploration history. His work continues to inspire and inform the next generation of explorers, historians, and scholars in Canada and beyond.”
How wonderful Ken. Though I’ve never met you personally, I feel I have some connection through my son-in-law, and your nephew, Patrick.
Wishing you many more successes.
Well, Ken, I, for one, (going for a comma record) believe that if you don’t blow your own horn, who will. And richly deserved, Compadre. Remember what Nietzsche said: “I’ve learned to mistrust clever people who get embarrassed.” Well done and here’s to the inevitable future successes. Cheers