Preservation in a Polar Climate: The Conservation of Sir Douglas Mawson’s Huts, Antarctica

ICCM Bulletin, Vol. 14, No. 3&4 (December 1988), pp. 1-32

Abstract

The huts of Sir Douglas Mawson, Commonwealth Bay, are Australia's only Antartic site, dating from the "heroic age" of polar exploration, and specifically from 1911-1914. Describes the site, its history and conservation problems. A preliminary survey highlighted 7 major problems on site. These were: high UV and visible light readings during summer months of 24 hours days, ice abrasion (ice particles/strong winds) on timbers, meltwater gathering along hut walls, high humidity/fungal/algal problem (although T is around -5 to 0oC., RH is constant at around 95%) defibring of timber in high humidity locations; extensive corrosion of metals, removal of ice and excavation of artifacts inside the huts. Specific problems with materials are described and illustrated and the author outline a strategy for preserving the site.

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