The Australian Irrigation Colonies On The River Murray, Victoria and South Australia.
Compiled by J.E. Matthew Vincent
Published by Chaffey Brothers Limited: London, Melbourne 1887
Scarce, large format book with impressive advertisements.
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The Australian Irrigation Colonies on the River Murray, Victoria and South Australia
, compiled by J.E. Matthew Vincent, is a detailed promotional and informational work published in the late 19th century to encourage settlement and investment in the emerging irrigation districts along the Murray River. The book highlights the transformative potential of irrigation in turning arid or semi-arid regions into fertile agricultural land, particularly in areas like Mildura in Victoria and Renmark in South Australia. It presents these colonies as model settlements where modern irrigation techniques, largely inspired by similar projects in California, would lead to prosperous farming communities producing fruit, vegetables, and wine. The book includes descriptions of the landscape, soil quality, climate, water systems, and the logistics of land acquisition, aiming to appeal to both domestic and overseas settlers.
Vincent's work is not only a technical and promotional document but also a reflection of the optimism and entrepreneurial spirit of the era. It underscores the belief in human capacity to engineer the environment for economic growth and national development. The book also praises the vision of key figures like Alfred and William Chaffey, who were instrumental in importing American irrigation models to Australia. Overall, the volume stands as a valuable historical record of early irrigation efforts in Australia, illustrating the intersection of environmental transformation, colonial expansion, and rural idealism during a formative period in the nation's agricultural history."
Book has been rebound retaining original skins, new endpapers. Includes all 4 plates + foldout map of Australind. Pages with tanning and plates with foxing. The odd tear without loss, crease etc. No inscriptions. All pages are present and the book is complete in 512 pages. A nice copy in good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
Size 39.5cm x 29cm x 1.5cm - 126 Pages + Advertising
