Statue of Explorer Richard Lander, Truro, Cornwall

Richard Lander was the son of a Truro innkeeper, born in the Daniell Arms, which is still to be found just opposite this Column with Lander's statue atop. He is credited with exploring the lower course of the Nile.

Lander went with the Scot Hugh Clapperton on an expedition to Western Africa in 1825. Clapperton died in April 1827 near Sokoto leaving Lander in charge.

Lander returned to West Africa in 1830, with his brother John. They followed the lower River Niger for about 160 kms, and also explored the River Benue and Niger Delta, returning to Britain in 1831.

In 1832, he returned to Africa as leader of an expedition sponsored by Liverpool merchants, with the aim of founding a trading settlement at the junction of the Niger and Benue rivers. The expedition suffered badly from fever and failed to reach its objective, with many of its members dieing. Whilst travelling in a canoe, Lander himself was attacked and wounded with a musket shot. He managed to return to the coast, but died there of his injuries.

This Monument to his memory in his home-town of Truro is by Cornish sculptor Neville Northey Burnard.