Jasper County Democrat, Volume 12, Number 41, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 4 September 1909 — POLE MAY BE DANISH PROPERTY [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

POLE MAY BE DANISH PROPERTY

Land Probably Pari of Greenland. WELCOME FOR OR. COOK Copenhagen Preparing to Honor Daring American Explnrer. WORLD DISCUSSING HIS FEAT Backer of Expedition Declares Gumdrops Were Taken Alnng. Washington, Sept. 3. —State department officials are of the opinion that it is of little consequence to the United States what lands Dr. Cook has dis-

covered so far as actual territorial possession is concerned. It is recalled that ever since 1828 American explorers have discovered vast areas of land to which no claims were ever made. The principal reason for this is said to be that these lands were almost inaccessible apd absolutely of no value. The islands of Spitzbergen are still without a recognized owner. On the maps these islands are designated as belonging to Russia, but her claim, if ever asserted, has never been recognized. These islands have developed some Thriving industries. Recently a conference was suggested of representatives of countries having interests in them to provide some sort of an administration. The United States probably will be represented by reason of the fact that the only Important coal mines in the .territory are operated by Americans. As to the particular territory which Dr. Cook is said to have discovered the statement was made that it was quite probable that these lands would be found to be an extension of the mainland of Greenland, and, if so, they belong to Denmark.

DR. FREDERICK A. COOK.