Beechey Island

Beechey Island is a historic site in Nunavut containing five archaeological locations spread across a bare island with narrow beaches, situated near Devon Island in the Arctic Archipelago. The sites reveal evidence of human activity and occupation across different time periods.

Sir John Franklin's 1845 Arctic expedition established a winter camp here during their search for the Northwest Passage. The camp is documented through archaeological remains and preserved evidence from that period.

Three graves of Franklin expedition members remain preserved in the freezing ground, providing insights into 19th-century Arctic exploration methods.

The island is accessible during the brief Arctic summer season when scientific investigations and visits are possible. Visitors should prepare for extreme weather conditions and limited facilities on site.

Scientific examinations in the 1980s revealed exceptionally preserved remains of the expedition members, including their clothing and physical conditions.

Location: Nunavut

Elevation above the sea: 198 m

Part of: Queen Elizabeth Islands

GPS coordinates: 74.71670,-91.85000

Latest update: December 19, 2025 23:22