Annals of Natal. 1495 to 1845 (first edition, 2 vols)
Author: John Bird
Published: 1888, P Davis & Sons Longmarket Street, Pietermaritzburg
Vol 1. 1495-1842 - Size: 24.5cm x 16cm; 732pp
Vol 2. 1842-1845 - Size: 24.5cm x 16cm; 484pp
Rare, first edition, full set (vol 1 & 2), hardcover in good condition. This is the original 1888 first edition set of two volumes of the most important published historical reference source for Natal between 1495 (the Portuguese) and 1845. The contents pages (labelled "index") provide a guide to the chronology and sources of Bird's material. Externally, both volumes are bound in the original maroon calf-boards with gilt decorations and gilt-on-black lettering to the spine, matching maroon cloth-board sides, and matching marbled endpapers. Volume 1 binding is acceptable with age related wear to the extremities, slight tear to the top left and on the bottom left of the cover along the spine. Back cover is still bound but there is a tear along the bottom right that displays some looseness and should be handled with care. Dedication, in ink, on the title-page of Vol 1 and a white water-stain to the lower half of the upper board. Vol 2 binding is good with age related wear to the extremities and there is a slight tear to the top left of the cover along the spine. Some water staining to the right side of the cover. Please see photos provided as these serve to reflect the condition in conjunction with details provided.
