Record

CollectionGB 0231 University of Aberdeen, Special Collections
LevelItem
Ref NoMS 3064/3/11/9
Alt Ref NoMS 3064 volumes 137, 134
TitleManuscript and typescript diary of southern frontier expedition in Abyssinia
Date21 Mar 1903 - 26 July 1903
Extent2 volumes
DescriptionManuscript diary with title "1903 Abyssinia Southern Frontier Expedition No. 6: March 21 Rudda Tuka to May 21 Lake Rudolf", together with typescript diary transcribing the manuscript. The manuscript breaks off 25 pages before the end of the typescript, which continues the diary up to 26 July.

Baird begins this section of the diary with a discussion of the respective contributions made to the expedition by Butter and Maud. The expedition splits again into two parties, with Baird in one, Butter and Maud in the other, to reunite at Lake Rudolf. It has not been decided what course the expedition should take after that; Baird outlines the options.

The entry for 14 April gives n account of the continuing survey work, and Baird's views of what it means for the eventual line of the frontier, and on the following day there is a meeting with a Boran leader and discussion of the history and political situation of the Borans. On 18 April they meet up with Butter's party again.

Continuation of the survey work and descriptions of lion hunts and other game shooting in the area of Lake Stefanie, with further discussion of the political options. The diary closes with a description of a lion hunt on 22 May in which Baird is mauled by a wounded lion; his injuries are not too serious but he is laid up for 10 days. On 3 June the party moves on to Lake Rudolf, and from there on 15 July the main party starts for the nearest point on the East Africa Railway, some 110 miles further on. Baird's group reaches the railway at Nakura on 11 July.
Access StatusOpen
Add to My Items