Dr. David Livingstone (1813 - 1873) was one of the greatest explorers of the African continent, along the way pioneering the abolition of the slave trade. When no-one heard from him for several years, he was exploring the interior continent in the 1860's, his long absence became a matter of international concern. The New York Herald sent explorer Henry M. Stanley to find him in 1869.
Stanley finally found Livingstone in November 1871 in a small town on Lake Tanganyika. He greeted Livingstone with the famous words, 'Dr. Livingstone I presume'.
Few Europeans have contributed as much to the exploration of Africa as the gentle Scottish missionary. The famous Scot even has his own centre situated in Blantyre, where you can follow his adventures from his childhood in Blantyre Mills to his exploration in the heart of Africa.
An 18th century tenement - his childhood home - remains much as it would have done in Livingstone's day and gives the avid visitor an insight into the living conditions endured by the industrial workers in the 19th century.
In addition to Livingstone's home there is a museum, which follows his life story from his early interest in the natural world, his conflict with his religious beliefs and his journey in Africa. The museum is home to a wide range of his personal belongings and travel aids, including diaries, navigational equipment and even the famous red shirt he was wearing when he met the journalist H. M. Stanley.
Location: Just off the M74, Junction 5 near Blantyre rail station, 1M from the National Cycle Route.
Opening Times: Monday to Saturday 10.00am - 5.00pm
Sunday 12.00 - 5.00pm
(Hours may be reduced in winter please phone 01698 823140 for details)
Admission Prices: Adult £3, Concession £2, Child £1
Visitor facilities include a restaurant, gift shop and themed playground.
Details
01698 823140
Few Europeans have contributed as much to the exploration of Africa as the gentle Scottish missionary. The famous Scot even has his own centre situated in Blantyre, where you can follow his adventures from his childhood in Blantyre Mills to his exploration in the heart of Africa.
An 18th century tenement - his childhood home - remains much as it would have done in Livingstone's day and gives the avid visitor an insight into the living conditions endured by the industrial workers in the 19th century.
In addition to Livingstone's home there is a museum, which follows his life story from his early interest in the natural world, his conflict with his religious beliefs and his journey in Africa. The museum is home to a wide range of his personal belongings and travel aids, including diaries, navigational equipment and even the famous red shirt he was wearing when he met the journalist H. M. Stanley.
Location: Just off the M74, Junction 5 near Blantyre rail station, 1M from the National Cycle Route.
Opening Times: Monday to Saturday 10.00am - 5.00pm
Sunday 12.00 - 5.00pm
(Hours may be reduced in winter please phone 01698 823140 for details)
Admission Prices: Adult £3, Concession £2, Child £1
Visitor facilities include a restaurant, gift shop and themed playground.
