NPR

Bones Of Famed British Explorer Found During Construction Of U.K. Train Line

Capt. Matthew Flinders led the first circumnavigation of the continent whose name he would go on to popularize: Australia.
Matthew Flinders' remains have been exhumed in London.

Britain is carrying out its largest-ever archaeological dig, courtesy of construction on a multibillion-dollar, high-speed rail system to speed passengers between Britain's biggest cities.

But last week, workers in London unearthed a traveler from a different era when they found the remains of Capt. Matthew Flinders. The British explorer led the first circumnavigation of the continent whose name he would go on to popularize:

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
Runaway Horses Gallop Through Central London, Blazing A Path Of Mayhem And Injuries
Five military horses got spooked during a training exercise, bolting and weaving a path of destruction across the city before being captured. Several people and horses are being treated for injuries.
NPR3 min read
A Photographer Documented Black Cowboys Across The U.S. For A New Book
NPR's A Martinez speaks with photojournalist Ivan McClellan about his new book documenting Black cowboys, Eight Seconds: Black Rodeo Culture.
NPR4 min readInternational Relations
Biden Signs $95 Billion Military Aid Package For Ukraine, Israel And Taiwan
Ukraine will get most of the assistance as it struggles to combat Russia's overwhelming firepower. The bill also includes more weapons for Israel, and humanitarian help for Gaza.

Related Books & Audiobooks