Welcome to another bonus episode of Calm History, an extra treat for my Soak Plus members.

If you enjoyed archive episode number 11 about the history of Rapa Nui, also known as

Easter Island, then you are also going to enjoy this bonus episode about Catherine

Routledge, who visited this island in 1914.

Now, this was not some coconut-sipping vacation, but rather a scientific expedition by a great woman in history whom you've probably

never heard about.

Catherine Rutledge was a British archaeologist and anthropologist who initiated and carried

out most of the first true survey of Easter Island.

She did this with her husband and several other scientists and assistants.

The team totaled about 12 members.

Catherine was the only female on the trip,

and also the author of their adventures

that you will hear about today.

In today's episode,

she'll give you an immersive

and fascinating description of the wondrous sights and scenery

of the island.

The challenges that the island and its residents threw at her.

The curious culture, homes, dress, and diet of the island's indigenous people.

And of course, you'll hear all about her meticulous work to uncover the rich history

of those gigantic and iconic statues that have made Easter Island so famous.

All right, come climb inside my time machine of tranquility

...