On New Years Day 1875 Frank Oates achieved something that he has been trying to do for almost two years, see Victoria Falls. He wrote in his diary later that day ‘a day never to be forgotten’, but tragically contracted a fever just a month later and died aged just 34 years old.

This winter marks the 150th anniversary of both Frank’s biggest achievement and his untimely death and we will be celebrating with an exhibition called ‘Reaching the Falls: Frank Oates’ last expedition’ which will open on the 15th October 2024 and run until the 6th February 2025.

The display will track the last few months of Frank’s expedition, his frustrations and triumphs, as he inches towards Victoria Falls known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya. You will see extracts from his diaries and letters which will illustrate what life was like for Oates, see items from the collection not usually on display and find out what Frank Oates’ legacy is today.

“The anniversary of Frank Oates reaching the Victoria Falls and his death, gives us the perfect opportunity to both celebrate the life of Oates and his amazing adventure in Southern Africa, as well as reflect on the legacy of colonisation and the effect that has had on the climate of that area today.” Says Kimberley James Collections Manager at Gilbert White’s House & Gardens. “We don’t get a lot of chances here at the museum to delve deeper into Frank Oates’ story, so it always exciting to be able to put on display items from our African collection that are usually in storage, to try to illustrate Frank’s story”.

Frank Oates was one of the first Europeans to see the falls in full flood, visiting in December/January rather than the recommended Summer and Autumn months. The winter and spring months were when the rains fell meaning that although the falls were the more magnificent, the risk of fever (most likely malaria) was much higher. As well as visiting the falls Frank records his time meeting other European settlers, explorers and hunters, he writes about his time in the court of King Lobengula, king of the Ndebele people and his time travelling through the vast plains of Southern Africa, recording the flora and fauna he saw.

The exhibition will be free with admission and will be open from the 15th October, Tuesdays-Sundays 10:30-16:00. Alongside the exhibition will be some half term activities such as a Frank Oates inspired story telling event for children and a African themed beaded badge workshop for all ages, both on the 29th and 31st October. Keep an eye on the museums website and socials for news on any other related events.