FACSIMILE REPRINT OF THE 1914 EDITION
Mauritius Illustrated, Historical, Descriptive, Commercial, Industrial Facts, Figures & Resources
Published by Societe Nouvelle des Editions du Pacifique, 1991,green morocco leather binding, large format, gilt lettering & illustration to cover, gilt fore edging, illustrated, index, 456 pages, condition : new.
A comprehensive historical and commercial encyclopedia of the island. The book was first published in 1914 by W.H. & L. Collingridge in London.
The volume serves as a "commemorative volume" providing a detailed snapshot of Mauritius during the British colonial period up to the early 20th century. It is structured as a series of essays by distinguished residents and experts covering:
History & Governance: Detailed accounts from Portuguese discovery (1506) through the British era, including law and government.
Natural History: Geology, topography, climate, fauna, and specific sections on "extinct birds" (such as the dodo) and flora.
Industry & Economy: Extensive data on the sugar industry, aloe fibre industry, commerce in Port Louis, and the railway system.
Society & Culture: Documentation of Creole folklore, education, ecclesiastical history, sports, and architecture.
Biographical Records: The book is notable for including numerous photographs and profiles of early settlers and their descendants, detailing their achievements on the island.
Allister Macmillan was a Scottish author, compiler, and editor best known for producing massive, highly detailed "illustrated" encyclopaedias of British colonies and trading ports during the height of the British Empire.
Macmillan's works served as essential commercial and historical records of their time. He typically followed a rigorous format, subtitling his books as "Historical and Descriptive, Commercial and Industrial Facts, Figures, & Resources". His publications are now prized by historians and collectors for their:
Comprehensive Documentation: They provide a "snapshot" of city life, infrastructure, and prominent businesses in the early 1900s.
Biographical Registers: Many include a "Who's Who" section of professional and middle-class residents of the era.
Extensive Illustrations: His books are famous for their high-quality, rare photographs of buildings, landscapes, and people.
Macmillan worked under various imprints, including W.H. & L. Collingridge in London, and his books are frequently found today in antiquarian auctions and rare book collections due to their limited original print runs and historical significance.
A LARGE SUMPTUOUS COFFEE TABLE BOOK.
