South Australia: Its History, Resources And Productions
Edited by William Harcus
Illustrated From Photographs Taken In The Colony. With Maps.
Published by Sampson Low, Marston, Searle & Rivington: London 1876 1st Edition
PROVENANCE: Carries The Signature of Geoffrey Blainey.
All 66 Engraved Plates Are Present - Lacks Maps.
"South Australia: Its History, Resources and Productions, edited by William Harcus and published in London in 1876, stands as one of the earliest comprehensive surveys of the young colony's progress. Issued by authority of the South Australian Government, the volume offers a sweeping and confident portrait of a society still in the process of defining itself—its political foundations, agricultural expansion, commercial potential, pastoral wealth and emerging industries all meticulously described. The text is enriched by numerous illustrations taken directly from colonial photographs, giving readers a rare and vivid look at Adelaide's streets, its public institutions, and the landscapes that shaped early settlement.
The work is equally notable for the breadth of its documentary approach. Harcus assembles contributions from leading voices within the colony, presenting authoritative sections on geology, viticulture, mining, immigration, education, architecture and inland exploration. Maps accompany the text, allowing contemporary readers—and collectors today—to trace the evolving shape of the colony at a time when its boundaries, ports and interior routes were still being charted. More than a promotional handbook, it served as a definitive statement of South Australia's identity and prospects on the eve of its great late-19th-century development.
This particular copy carries exceptional provenance, bearing the signature of Geoffrey Blainey, widely regarded as Australia's greatest historian. Few names carry more weight in the study of Australian settlement, economic history and national identity, making this association especially fitting for a foundational colonial narrative. Rich in historical detail and visual documentation, this rare 1876 first edition will appeal strongly to collectors of early Australian history, Blainey admirers, and institutions seeking works that helped define the intellectual and economic self-image of South Australia.
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Light wear to spine and covers as shown. Geoffrey Blainey signature on front blank endpaper. Inside hinges split but covers secure and there are no loose pages. All 66 engraved plates including frontis are present. Lacks large foldout maps otherwise complete. Pages are clean and very well presented with the odd age mark only. An excellent copy, likely used in the preparation of classic Australian History references in very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
Size 22.5cm x 15.5cm x 4.5cm - 432 Pages
