A Negro Explorer at the North Pole · Character

Captain Bob Bartlett

The Roosevelt's captain, the seasoned seaman whose ice-navigation skill carried the expedition north through waters that had stopped lesser ships.

supporting

Also known as Bartlett, Captain Bartlett

First appearance: A Negro Explorer at the North Pole

As a supporting figure in A Negro Explorer at the North Pole, Captain Bob Bartlett is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Captain of the Roosevelt and a crucial member of the expedition.

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As master of the Roosevelt, Bartlett occupies a distinct rank in the expedition's hierarchy — answerable to Peary, but responsible for every soul aboard when the ship is in motion. His authority rests on seamanship rather than command, and the northern passage tests both his judgment and the vessel's hull. For Henson, Bartlett is a fellow mariner whose competence is measured in the same practical terms Henson learned as an able-bodied seaman.

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Character Web

16 connections

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Core Expedition Team
Protagonist
Support and Family Members

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak of relief and triump…

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In the story

Captain Bob Bartlett appears across 19 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

A Negro Explorer at the North Pole
Captain of the Roosevelt and a crucial member of the expedition.
II
Ship captain, described as quick, strong, and knowledgeable; handles the landing at Eskimo settlements.
III
Navigates the Roosevelt through ice, finding leads and managing the ship's progress.
Preparing for Winter at Cape Sheridan
Works with the Commander to secure the ship near the shore.
VII Sledging to Cape Columbia
Had already started for Cape Columbia; his igloos noted for neatness; went to Parr Bay to hunt musk-oxen.
VIII
Returns from an unsuccessful musk-ox hunt, tired and discouraged; eats Henson's stew hungrily.
Ready for the Dash to the Pole
Met Henson on the trail, helped push loaded sledges to Cape Aldrich, and was among the first to depart onto the ice after Peary's arrival.
Forward! March!
Alert and attentive; sets sail with his crew Ooqueah, Pooadloonah, and Harrigan on February 28, 1909.
Fighting Up the Polar Sea—Held Up by the 'Big Lead'
Built the igloo that Henson reaches on March 4; his trail is followed by the main party.
Pioneering the Way
Takes the field again following Peary's example; part of the main column after the Big Lead crossing.
Chapter XIII: The Final Supporting Parties Turn Back
Co-leads the pioneer party with Henson; works long hours making trail and building igloos.
XIV
Reaches his farthest north at 87° 48' and turns back with a cheerful goodbye, tasked with knitting the trail together for the return.
The Pole!
Departed southward with his two boys after reaching 87° 48' North, leaving the main column to continue.
The Return Journey
Mentioned as having reached land safely; his igloos at Crane City are found intact.
Safe on the Roosevelt—Poor Marvin
Suffering from swollen legs and feet after the journey.
XVIII
Uses dynamite to free the Roosevelt's propeller from ice; oversees preparations for departure.
The Roosevelt Starts for Home
Not directly mentioned in the excerpts, but part of the expedition crew.
Two Narrow Escapes — Arrival at Etah — Harry Whitney — Dr. Cook's Claims
Orders more anchor chain during the storm; previously directed the outfitting of Mr. Bradley's hunting expedition.
XXI Etah to New York — Coming of mail and reporters — Home!
Not explicitly mentioned in this chapter, but his ship the Roosevelt is central.

Chapter companion notes

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