Thomas McLeod (sailor)

Thomas McLeod was a 19th-century Scottish sailor and explorer, best known for his participation in several Arctic expeditions under the command of Sir John Ross and Sir James Clark Ross.

McLeod served as a gunner and later as a boatswain in the Royal Navy and aboard various vessels during these expeditions. His experience and seamanship proved valuable in the challenging and often perilous conditions of Arctic exploration. He was part of the crew of the Victory, the ship used during Sir John Ross's second Arctic expedition between 1829 and 1833, which aimed to discover the Northwest Passage.

While the expedition failed to find a navigable Northwest Passage, it yielded significant geographical and scientific discoveries, including the location of the North Magnetic Pole. McLeod's specific contributions are documented in the expedition journals and reports, detailing his duties in maintaining the ship, handling the boats, and contributing to the overall safety and efficiency of the crew.

After his time exploring the Arctic, little is known of McLeod's later life. He remains a notable figure for his dedication and participation in these important explorations of the 19th century.