Matthew Henson

Matthew Henson

August 8, 1866 - March 9, 1955

Matthew Henson was a Black American explorer who accompanied Robert Peary on his most famous expedition in 1909, intended to reach the North Pole.

Henson, had become knowledgeable of the world through his time time as a cabin boy on the merchant ship the “Katie Hines.”

By the age of 20, Henson had sailed various parts of the world China, Japan, The Philippines, France, Africa and Russia. His experience and skill would impress commander Robert E. Peary, and was recruited to assist Peary on his expeditions.

For the next 20 years Henson would accompany Peary on his explorations to the Arctic. Henson, was a skilled explorer and even learned Inuit to communicate with the people of the region.

On their most famous expedition, the 8th attempt to reach the North Pole, Peary would become sick on the exploration and direct Henson to go ahead.

Henson is believed to be the first steps at what was believed and recognized by National Geographic as the North Pole.

Making a Black Man the first to reach the destination. That’s MAVERICK.

Later, discovery would surface to discredit the validity of the discovery. However, what is undisputed is that he was indeed the man who traveled this distance honored.

Due to to racism at the time Henson was never credited or acknowledged for his accomplishments only Peary.

However, In 1937 Henson was admitted as a member to the prestigious Explorers Club in New York City, and made an honorary member in 1948, of whom there are only 20 per year.

In 1944 Congress awarded him as well as Peary aides duplicates of the Peary Polar Expedition Medal. Presidents Truman and Eisenhower both honored Henson before he died in 1955.

Today in Black Maverick History we honor Mathew Henson who sought to go further than any man had before.

Born to sharecroppers in Maryland in 1866 Henson was a glaring example of how far a dream and relentless pursuit of a goal could take you despite limitations.

He is known as Innovator in exploration, and published a memoir of his explorations, A Negro Explorer at the North Pole in 1912.

Additionally in 1947, he collaborated with author Bradley Robinson on for his biography titled Dark Companion.

Henson’s accomplishments and explorations made him not only Peary’s famous titled “First Man” but also the history’s “First Man” to reach the point Peary was accredited for.

No matter the obstacle, no matter the distance, We at Maverick Innovation focus our mindset on belief in ourselves to reach new heights.

This is Maverick and this is our Family. DO YOU.

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MAVFact: In 1988 Henson was re-interred in Arlington National Cemetery near Peary's monument. In 2000, the National Geographic Society awarded the Hubbard Medal to Matthew A. Henson posthumously. (BIG FLEX)

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