In the Raw: Some Reflections on Transcribing and Editing Lieutenant Hugh Clapperton's Writings on the Borno Mission of 1822–25

• Published in: History in Africa Vol. 26; pp. 157 - 195
• Main Author: Lockhart, Jamie Bruce
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York, USA Cambridge University Press 01-01-1999; African Studies Association
• Subjects: Countries; Fever; Journal writing; Literature; Rainy seasons; Salah; Towns; Travel; Travel diaries; Writing
• ISSN: 0361-5413; 1558-2744
• DOI: 10.2307/3172140

In this paper I review the evolution of a nineteenth-century travel diary from the original “remark books” to a polished fair copy version prepared for publication. The journals in question are those kept by Lieut. Hugh Clapperton RN while serving on the Borno Mission in 1822-25. The central issue is how best to reach into and interpret the raw material itself—the author's original observations and thoughts at the time. Each case will have its particularities—in the context of the period and the journey, in the character and interests of the writer, and in the writer's own attitude to the purpose of the journal he or she kept. While the Clapperton material is just one case among many, a review of its internal development—as it proceeded towards publication—allows us to draw some conclusions which may have wider application.