The Strange and Forgotten Journey of Exploration of Emile Marcel Etienne Peau — Kevin Eads

“I recently discovered the diary of forgotten explorer Emile Marcel Etienne Peau while visiting a church library in Le Havre, France. I had been researching for a book I was writing on Normandie in the High Middle Ages when I came across this fascinating journal and was captivated. I wondered why this great historical figure was never heard of in modern times and if his discoveries should be put into modern history books. I talked to the local men and women of the area, but very few had heard of him. I only found one local person who heard of him, a very old fisherman. He claimed to be a descendant of Mr. Peau and said that his story is one that is a forgotten part of history. Still, he told me that at one time, this man was celebrated in the area, but for only a short time, as Christopher Columbus soon began his journeys, which overshadowed Mr. Peau. I hope through the publishing of this journal that this amazing man will soon be remembered as an important part of history.”