Sir Edmund Hillary was a New Zealand mountaineer who became world-famous in 1953. As a beekeeper turned explorer, Hillary captured global attention when he and Tenzing Norgay accomplished what many thought impossible. On May 29, 1953, Hillary became the first person to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak, forever cementing his place in exploration history.
Born and raised in Auckland, Hillary developed his climbing skills on the mountains of New Zealand before taking on greater challenges. His Everest achievement came after years of preparation and previous attempts by others that had ended in failure or tragedy. Standing at 29,032 feet (8,849 meters), Everest represented the ultimate test of human endurance and determination.
Hillary’s life wasn’t defined by a single climb but by a lifetime of adventure and service. After conquering Everest, he devoted much of his life to philanthropic work in Nepal, building schools and hospitals for the Sherpa people who had helped him reach the top of the world. His humble approach to his achievements and dedication to helping others made him a national hero in New Zealand and an inspiration to adventurers worldwide.
Early Life and Background
Edmund Hillary’s journey from a quiet New Zealand childhood to becoming a skilled mountaineer shaped his future achievements. His upbringing and early climbing experiences laid the foundation for his historic Everest summit.
New Zealand Roots
Edmund Percival Hillary was born on July 20, 1919, in Auckland, New Zealand. He grew up in a modest household as the second of three children to Percival Augustus Hillary and Gertrude Hillary.
His childhood was marked by a love for reading and an early interest in outdoor activities. Young Edmund was initially shy and bookish, spending many hours immersed in adventure stories.
Hillary attended Auckland Grammar School where he was smaller than many of his classmates. He discovered physical activities later in his teens, building confidence through swimming and other pursuits.
Early Mountaineering
Hillary’s mountaineering journey began when he was 16 during a school trip to Mount Ruapehu. This first exposure to mountains sparked a passion that would define his life.
While working as a beekeeper with his father, Hillary devoted his spare time to climbing New Zealand’s challenging peaks. The Southern Alps became his training ground where he developed technical skills and physical endurance.
By his twenties, Hillary had become an accomplished climber within the New Zealand mountaineering community. He joined the New Zealand Alpine Club, connecting with other climbing enthusiasts.
His climbing reputation grew steadily through the 1940s as he tackled increasingly difficult ascents. These early experiences prepared him for the international expeditions that would follow.
Ascent to Fame
Edmund Hillary’s journey to international recognition began with his participation in the historic 1953 British Mount Everest expedition. His mountaineering skills, determination, and successful partnership with Tenzing Norgay led to one of the 20th century’s greatest achievements.
Joining the British Expedition
Edmund Hillary joined the Mount Everest reconnaissance expeditions in 1951, which helped lay groundwork for future attempts. His exceptional climbing abilities caught the attention of expedition organizers, leading to his invitation to join the official 1953 British Mount Everest expedition.
The expedition was led by Colonel John Hunt, who carefully selected team members based on their mountaineering experience and physical endurance. Hillary, a beekeeper from New Zealand, had already established himself as a skilled climber in the Southern Alps.
The team arrived in Nepal in February 1953 and established a series of camps as they ascended the mountain. Hillary demonstrated remarkable strength and adaptability to high altitudes, which made him a natural choice for the final summit attempt.
Collaboration with Tenzing Norgay
Hillary formed a strong partnership with Nepalese Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, an experienced climber who had participated in six previous Everest expeditions. Their collaboration was based on mutual respect and trust, essential qualities for mountaineering success.
Both men complemented each other’s skills perfectly. Hillary brought technical climbing expertise, while Tenzing contributed invaluable knowledge about the mountain and high-altitude endurance.
The pair worked together establishing the final camps on Everest’s treacherous slopes. Their effective teamwork during the challenging conditions convinced expedition leader Hunt to select them for the final summit push.
Though coming from vastly different backgrounds, Hillary and Tenzing developed a lifelong friendship through their shared experiences on Everest.
Historic Summit of Mount Everest
On May 29, 1953, Hillary and Tenzing achieved what many thought impossible – they became the first people to stand on the summit of Everest, the world’s highest peak at 29,035 feet (8,850 meters).
The final climb required navigating the treacherous Hillary Step, a nearly vertical rock face near the summit. At approximately 11:30 a.m., they reached the top, where they spent about 15 minutes taking photographs and burying small items as offerings.
Hillary’s famous understated comment to fellow expedition member George Lowe upon returning to camp was simply: “Well, George, we knocked the bastard off.”
News of their achievement reached London on June 2, coinciding with Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. Hillary and the expedition team were celebrated worldwide, and he was knighted for his accomplishment, transforming him from an unknown beekeeper to a global icon overnight.
Further Adventures and Expeditions
After conquering Mount Everest, Sir Edmund Hillary continued his adventurous spirit through several remarkable expeditions. His explorations took him from the icy landscapes of Antarctica to the flowing waters of the Ganges River.
South Pole Expedition
In 1958, Hillary achieved another historic feat by leading the New Zealand section of the Trans-Antarctic expedition. He became the first person to reach the South Pole by land since Robert Scott’s expedition in 1912. This journey used modified farm tractors to cross the challenging Antarctic terrain.
Hillary’s team wasn’t originally tasked with reaching the South Pole. They were supposed to set up supply depots for British explorer Vivian Fuchs. However, with extra time and supplies, Hillary made the bold decision to push on to the Pole.
The expedition faced brutal conditions including temperatures dropping to -40°F and dangerous crevasses hidden beneath the snow. Despite these challenges, Hillary’s party reached the South Pole on January 4, 1958.
This achievement added to Hillary’s growing reputation as one of the world’s greatest explorers of the 20th century.
Jet Boat Journey Ganges River
In 1977, Hillary led an ambitious expedition called “Ocean to Sky” up the Ganges River in India. The team used specially designed jet boats to navigate the challenging river waters.
They began at the Bay of Bengal and aimed to reach the river’s source high in the Himalayan mountains. The expedition combined adventure with Hillary’s ongoing humanitarian interests in the region.
The journey covered approximately 1,500 miles of river, with sections of treacherous rapids and shallow waters. When the boats could go no further, Hillary and his team continued on foot toward the source.
This unique expedition demonstrated Hillary’s innovative approach to exploration and his continued passion for adventure well into his fifties.
Exploration of Antarctic
Beyond his famous South Pole journey, Hillary maintained a deep connection with Antarctica. He helped establish Scott Base, New Zealand’s Antarctic research station, which continues to operate today.
Hillary’s Antarctic achievements include being the first to reach the South Pole by motor vehicle. His team used modified Ferguson farm tractors, proving that mechanical transport could work in the harsh polar environment.
Between 1955 and 1958, Hillary led the New Zealand component of the Commonwealth Trans-Antarctic Expedition. This massive undertaking involved scientific research and comprehensive mapping of previously uncharted Antarctic regions.
His work in Antarctica helped advance scientific understanding of the continent and strengthened New Zealand’s presence in polar research. Hillary’s expeditions demonstrated the same determination and resourcefulness he had shown on Everest.
Philanthropy and the Himalayan Trust
After his historic climb of Mount Everest, Sir Edmund Hillary devoted much of his life to helping the Sherpa people of Nepal through humanitarian projects. His work transformed education, healthcare, and infrastructure in remote Himalayan communities.
Establishment of Schools
In the 1960s, Hillary founded the Himalayan Trust with a mission to improve education in Nepal’s mountain regions. His first school was built in Khumjung village in 1961 after local Sherpas expressed their desire for better educational opportunities for their children.
Hillary’s approach was collaborative rather than imposing. He asked communities what they needed most, and education was often the priority.
By the 1980s, over 30 schools had been established in the Solu-Khumbu region. These schools provided education to thousands of Sherpa children who previously had no access to formal learning.
The Trust continued Hillary’s legacy by maintaining these schools, training teachers, and providing scholarships. Today, many graduates from these schools have become doctors, pilots, and business leaders who contribute to Nepal’s development.
Building Hospitals
Healthcare was another critical focus of Hillary’s humanitarian work. The Himalayan Trust built hospitals in remote areas where medical care was previously inaccessible.
The first hospital was constructed in Kunde in 1966, serving communities that otherwise would need to travel for days to reach medical help. This facility initially focused on treating common conditions like respiratory infections and injuries.
Hillary arranged for doctors and nurses to volunteer their services. Many medical professionals from New Zealand and other countries spent time working in these hospitals.
The hospitals gradually expanded their services to include maternal care, vaccinations, and basic surgeries. This significantly reduced mortality rates in the region, especially among children and new mothers.
Development of Water Systems
Clean water access presented a major health challenge in Nepal’s mountain villages. Hillary recognized this issue and directed the Himalayan Trust to develop sustainable water systems.
The first water projects involved creating pipelines from mountain springs to village centers. This eliminated the need for villagers, especially women, to walk hours daily carrying heavy water containers.
Engineers designed systems that could withstand harsh mountain conditions and freezing temperatures. Local Sherpas were trained to maintain these systems, creating sustainability beyond foreign assistance.
The improved water systems dramatically reduced waterborne diseases like dysentery that had previously caused many deaths. Combined with the hospitals and sanitation education, these projects created a comprehensive approach to community health.
By the early 2000s, dozens of villages had reliable water systems, transforming daily life and health outcomes for thousands of Nepali villagers.
Legacy and Honours
Sir Edmund Hillary’s achievements have earned him worldwide recognition and lasting impact. His accomplishments extend far beyond his historic Everest climb, shaping both international relations and humanitarian efforts.
Knighthood and Recognitions
Hillary received numerous honors for his mountaineering achievements and humanitarian work. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II shortly after his Everest success in 1953, becoming Sir Edmund Hillary. This recognition came unusually quickly after his achievement, highlighting its significance.
New Zealand honored him by placing his portrait on their five-dollar note – a rare tribute for someone during their lifetime. The government of India awarded him the Padma Vibhushan, their second-highest civilian honor.
Hillary also received the Order of New Zealand, his country’s highest honor. His face appeared on New Zealand postage stamps multiple times throughout his life and after his death in 2008.
Cultural Impact
Hillary’s humble response to his Everest achievement – “We knocked the bastard off” – exemplifies the unpretentious attitude that made him a beloved figure in New Zealand and worldwide. His name became synonymous with adventure and perseverance.
The Hillary Step, a rocky outcrop near Everest’s summit, was named after him until its collapse in 2017. Educational institutions worldwide bear his name, including schools in New Zealand and Nepal.
His humanitarian work in Nepal created a lasting legacy. The Hillary Trust built schools, hospitals, and bridges in remote Sherpa villages. Many Nepali people referred to him as “Burra Sahib” (great lord) out of deep respect for his contributions.
The annual Edmund Hillary Fellowship continues his legacy by supporting social entrepreneurs and innovators.
Mountaineering Impact
Sir Edmund Hillary’s historic first summit of Mount Everest in 1953 transformed mountaineering forever. His achievements set new standards for climbing technique and equipment while establishing meaningful connections with local communities.
Evolution of Climbing Gear
Hillary’s Everest expedition marked a turning point in climbing equipment development. The oxygen systems used during the 1953 climb were revolutionary for their time, though heavy and inefficient by today’s standards.
After his successful summit, mountaineering gear underwent rapid innovation. Clothing moved from heavy wool and cotton to synthetic materials that offered better protection with less weight.
Equipment companies began designing products specifically for high-altitude climbing, inspired by the challenges Hillary’s team faced. Their oxygen bottles, ice axes, and crampons became templates for modern designs.
Hillary was known for his practical approach to gear, often emphasizing simplicity and functionality over complexity. This philosophy continues to influence mountaineering equipment design today.
Influence on Sherpa Community
Hillary’s relationship with the Sherpa people extended far beyond his climb with Tenzing Norgay. After achieving fame, he dedicated much of his life to supporting the Sherpa communities in Nepal.
In 1960, Hillary established the Himalayan Trust, which built schools, hospitals, and airfields in remote Sherpa villages. These projects improved education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for generations of Sherpas.
His work helped transform how Western climbers interact with local communities. Hillary promoted respect for Sherpa expertise and fair treatment, challenging the previous colonial approach to expedition hiring.
The partnership between Hillary and Norgay became symbolic of cross-cultural cooperation in mountaineering. Their achievement elevated the status of Sherpas from porters to recognized climbing experts, creating professional opportunities that continue today.
Mysteries of the Mountains
Sir Edmund Hillary’s expeditions in the Himalayas led him to investigate more than just climbing routes. His ventures into the remote mountains of Nepal brought him face-to-face with local legends and folklore that captured the imagination of people worldwide.
Search for the Yeti
Hillary’s fascination with the Yeti legend took a scientific turn in 1960 when he led an expedition to the Himalayas specifically to search for evidence of the mysterious creature. The 1953 Everest hero spent months investigating reports from local Sherpa communities who firmly believed in the creature’s existence.
During this expedition, Hillary collected what locals claimed were Yeti scalps from monasteries in Nepal. After careful examination, these artifacts were determined to be made from the hide of serows, a local goat-like animal.
Hillary also tracked unusual footprints in the snow that many believed belonged to the Yeti. His team discovered these prints were likely caused by known animals whose tracks had been distorted by melting snow.
Despite finding no concrete evidence, Hillary maintained respect for Sherpa beliefs while approaching the search with scientific skepticism.
The Abominable Snowman Legend
The term “Abominable Snowman” originated from a mistranslation of the Sherpa word “metoh-kangmi,” which actually means “man-bear snowman.” This Western name helped popularize the legend globally, creating an image of a fearsome mountain creature.
Hillary documented numerous Sherpa accounts of the creature throughout his time in the Himalayas. Many described a large, ape-like being that walked upright and left distinctive footprints in remote snow-covered areas.
The legend particularly fascinated Hillary because it persisted across different villages and regions of Nepal. Local monasteries preserved “relics” they attributed to the creature.
Though Hillary never claimed to have seen the Abominable Snowman himself, his scientific investigations helped bring methodical inquiry to what had previously been dismissed as mere superstition by many Westerners.
Personal Life and Interests
Sir Edmund Hillary’s life extended far beyond his mountaineering achievements. His family relationships and diverse interests revealed a multifaceted personality grounded in both adventure and community service.
Family and Relationships
Edmund Hillary married Louise Mary Rose in 1953, shortly after his historic Everest climb. The couple had three children: Peter, Sarah, and Belinda. Family life was important to Hillary, though his frequent expeditions often took him away from home.
Tragedy struck in 1975 when Louise and their youngest daughter Belinda died in a plane crash in Nepal. This devastating loss deeply affected Hillary, but he eventually found love again. In 1989, he married June Mulgrew, a longtime family friend.
Hillary maintained a modest lifestyle despite his fame. His Auckland home reflected his unpretentious nature, and he remained connected to his New Zealand roots throughout his life.
Outside of Mountaineering
Bee-keeping was a significant part of Hillary’s early life, following in his father’s footsteps before mountaineering took center stage. This family trade taught him patience and attention to detail—skills that later served him well on expeditions.
Hillary devoted much of his later life to humanitarian work in Nepal. He established the Himalayan Trust in 1960, which built schools, hospitals, and infrastructure for Sherpa communities. This work became as important to him as his climbing achievements.
An avid reader and writer, Hillary authored several books about his adventures. He enjoyed photography and documented many of his journeys through images that captured remote landscapes.
His love for New Zealand’s natural environment remained strong throughout his life. He advocated for conservation efforts and appreciated the quieter moments spent in his homeland’s mountains when not tackling greater heights abroad.
Reflections on Hillary’s Journey
Sir Edmund Hillary’s incredible adventures and inspiring words continue to shape our understanding of exploration and human potential. His personal accounts and public speeches reveal a humble man who achieved extraordinary things.
High Adventure and Autobiography
Hillary documented his historic Mount Everest achievement and other expeditions in his autobiography “High Adventure.” Published in 1955, the book offers a firsthand account of his groundbreaking 1953 climb with Tenzing Norgay.
In his writings, Hillary describes the final ascent with remarkable clarity and modesty. “We’re knocking the bastard off,” he famously said about conquering Everest, revealing his straightforward approach to monumental challenges.
His autobiography details not just triumph but also struggles. Hillary candidly discusses the physical hardships and mental challenges faced during the expedition. The book provides valuable insights into the planning, teamwork, and determination required for such an ambitious undertaking.
Inspirational Speeches
Throughout his life, Hillary delivered speeches that inspired generations to pursue their own goals with determination and humility. His talks often emphasized that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things through perseverance.
Hillary’s speech at the 50th anniversary of the Everest climb highlighted his legacy of respect and humility. He consistently downplayed his personal achievements and redirected attention to the importance of teamwork.
In his public addresses, Hillary often discussed his humanitarian work in Nepal. This reflected his belief that achievements should benefit others, not just oneself. His speeches balanced tales of high adventure with calls to social responsibility.
Hillary’s presentation style was direct and unpretentious, much like his approach to mountaineering. He avoided dramatic language, instead relying on authentic storytelling to convey his experiences and values.
Final Years and Death
In his later years, Sir Edmund Hillary continued his dedication to the people of Nepal. He established the Himalayan Trust, which built schools, hospitals, and airfields to improve life for the Sherpa communities.
Hillary remained active well into his 80s despite suffering a near-fatal fall into a crevasse during an Antarctic expedition in his 70s. He maintained close ties with the Sherpa people and regularly visited Nepal to oversee his foundation’s projects.
The legendary mountaineer faced personal tragedy when his wife Louise and daughter Belinda died in a plane crash in 1975. He later remarried to June Mulgrew, who supported his humanitarian work.
In his final years, Hillary lived in Auckland, New Zealand, where he was considered a national hero. He received numerous honors, including being named as one of the 100 Most Influential People of the 20th Century by Time magazine.
Sir Edmund Hillary died on January 11, 2008, at the age of 88. He passed away in an Auckland hospital from a heart attack after being unwell for some time.
New Zealand mourned deeply for their beloved hero. His death prompted tributes from around the world, recognizing both his historic achievement on Mount Everest and his lifelong humanitarian work in Nepal.
Hillary’s body was cremated, and in a fitting tribute, some of his ashes were scattered in Auckland’s harbor while others were taken to Nepal to be placed in a memorial near Mount Everest.
