Mission Statement

The American Polar Society was founded November 29, 1934, to band together all persons interested in polar science and exploration. Its purpose is to support and encourage research and exploration in the Arctic and Antarctic, and to preserve the record of polar history. Toward these ends, the Society collects and disseminates information about polar regions; compiles written records, oral histories, maps, photographs, film and video, and electronic information relating to these regions; aids organizers and members of polar expeditions; and maintains contact with scientists, explorers, research institutions and other interested parties.

Early polar explorers/members involved in its founding and establishment as an international organization included: Admiral Richard Byrd, Sir Hubert Wilkins, Bernt Balchen, Finn Ronne, General David Brainerd, Vilhjalmur Stefansson, and Lincoln Ellsworth. The Society’s president was distinguished polar scientist Paul Siple.

The American Polar Society is classified as a tax exempt organization under Section 501(C)3 of the IRS Code.