HISTORY
Photo by Bob Hemm
“The explorers choose where they travel to and we provide support where we can. Research is critical in writing an objective and raising money for your exploration,” says Roseman, noting that many explorers come from an educational background and don’t have a surplus of money to spend. “Great science is found on a shoe string, oftentimes at little expense.” Roseman was a bush pilot in the Congo, which is how he earned his membership. He has an impressive display of signed miniature flags in his office from the likes of John Glenn, Stephen Hawking, Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong, who have left their mark upon visiting the club. If the club’s history, wall hangings and stories of past members seem to be predominantly male in nature, that’s because women were not allowed in until 1981. Marine biologists Sylvia Earle and Rita Matthews, zoologist Dian Fossey, geologist and a former NASA astronaut Kathryn Sullivan and Anna Roosevelt are some of the women who proudly earned their spots. The Explorer’s Club flag is the hallmark of every expedition and carrying a flag is considered not only an honor, but a privilege. Red represents bravery, white is purity and 18 BOULEVARD
IS A FASCINATING PLACE... “THE CLUB IT’S A GREAT SECRET. ”
Above: The private compound of King Mohammed VI of Morocco in Tan Tan visited by Bob Hemm on an expedition. Inset: The wall of Explorer’s Club presidents graces the second floor landing.
blue symbolizes fidelity. There are currently 202 flags, each with their own story. “We’ve had expeditions where we’ve gone to retrieve flags that were lost,” says Roseman, noting that members go on about 600 expeditions per year, but only 50 or 60 qualify to carry an explorer’s club flag.
“Teamwork and relying on your companions really transcends what we do and the club is a fascinating place; it’s a great secret.” Steeped in rich history, the Explorer’s Club is about preserving the past and making a mark on the future, a ceremonial tradition that will continue for years to come.