Avast, and shiver me timbers, but pirates didn't really speak like that. The truth behind the 18th Century buccaneers, and Captain William Kidd in particular, is revealed at a new exhibition at Museum of London Docklands.
The show brings together maps, letters and other documents to paint a rounded picture of the notorious cap'n. Was he the archetype pirate of a thousand books and films, or a simple privateer whose exploits were blown out of proportion by those who tried and eventually executed him at Execution Dock in Wapping?
Here's a deliciously hammy teaser for the exhibition. You can just tell the narrator wants to let out a long 'Yearggggh!', but has been instructed not to.
You can also follow the Captain on twitter (@William_Kidd), and visit a special late opening on 27 May.
Pirates: The Captain Kidd Story runs at Museum of London Docklands 20 May-30 October 2011. Tickets £4-£7.
