How To Dissect An Elephant (An Animal of Considerable Bigness)

When an elephant collapsed and died just outside Broughty Ferry in 1706, local surgeon Patrick Blair decided to dissect it. In doing so, he made a name for himself in British scientific circles. But the expired elephant had travelled a long way before it reached the shores of the Tay – touring more than half-way round Europe for two decades.

Andy Drummond, author of the book Elephantina, now presents for the very first time the full and unexpurgated history of the ‘Dundee Elephant’.

Expect to be entertained by rope-dancers and gun-toting elephants! Swoon at the sight of 260 bones and a slippery pile of internal organs! Be appalled by the behaviour of London impresarios and the deviousness of Edinburgh lawyers! Applaud the achievements of Patrick Blair, honoured son of Dundee!

This free talk takes place in the D'Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum. Please enter via the main front entrance of the Carnelley Building (the big wooden door) where you will be met and directed to the museum. Please note that latecomers may not be admitted.