Dr Livingstone, I presume? celebrates the bicentenary
of Livingstone’s birth, bringing a new focus to the man, the myth
and his legacy.
Learn of Livingstone’s early home life in
Blantyre, Scotland; his studies in medicine and divinity; how he
became the first European to cross the African continent; and his
efforts to abolish the slave trade, share his Christian beliefs and
develop legitimate trading relationships in the countries through
which he travelled.
New research, the museum’s spectacular African collections, and
a collection of Livingstone’s personal possessions all help tell
the story of the epic adventures and achievements that led to the
rise of his celebrity in Victorian Britain.
Carte de visite of Livingstone
Antelope medicine horn from Nyasaland
Gold sample sent to the Museum by David Livingstone from
Mozambique
Silver medal of Livingstone cast to commemorate his death in
1873
Box containing a cross made from the tree under which
Livingstone's heart was buried
'Across Africa with Livingstone' board game
See the tools he used as an explorer,
with maps, sketches, photography and paintings from his travels.
His diaries, manuscripts and clothing will also be on display,
including the iconic hats worn at the famous meeting between
Livingstone and Henry Morton Stanley.
The slideshow belows shows objects on loan from the David
Livingstone Centre in Blantyre being packed up ready to be
transported to the Museum for the exhibition.
Drawing on our partnership with National Museums of Malawi, the
exhibition reveals our continuing close links and associations with
Malawi, where Livingstone first travelled in 1859.
Film footage especially commissioned for the exhibition reveals
a contemporary point of view of Livingstone in both Malawi and
Scotland. The exhibition also features a project to revive the
local weaving traditions which Livingstone first recorded over 150
years ago.
A publication featuring fascinating new research by a range of
international scholars will accompany the exhibition.