Closing in on the Kimberley 1819-1884
PRINCIPAL EDITOR Ned Overton.
Published 2022.
READ EXCERPTS FROM THIS VOLUME
This magnificent volume documents the interplay between 1819–1884 of exploration of the Kimberley region and adjoining Victoria River District. From early on, expeditions established different settlement patterns between Kimberley’s eastern and western halves. It contains the near complete suite of geologist E.T. Hardman’s sketches and watercolours as well as numerous little known expeditions and explorers
The main categories of exploration included appraisal of pastoral lands, topographical, hydrographical and geological surveys and prospecting for precious metals. All but prospecting generally yielded detailed reports, commonly in diary format, mostly with maps of varying accuracy, some in colour. These records are compiled here.
One noteworthy feature of this first Kimberley volume – from an era predating printed photographs – is a collection of Edward Hardman’s 1883–84 watercolour and pastel sketches, many of them full-page, together with the copied etchings. Another highlight is a full translation of the shorthand diary of John Pentecost, ‘Stumpy’ Durack’s 1882 expedition navigator.
All the precursors of Western Australia’s first gold rush are documented - the rush was about to begin.
ISBN 978-0-85905-950-3
Hardcover, Case Bound, Section Sewn, Dust Jacket, Illustrated, with Maps and full Indexes, 730 pages, 2 kg.
$220.00 plus postage.
Order this Volume from Hesperian Press.