The Record; or, A Series of Official Papers Relative to the Condition and Treatment of the Native Tribes of South Africa

                                 Compiled and edited by Donald Moodie. With a new introduction by Anna H. Smith.

De Luxe edition quarter bound in brown simulated leather, published by A. A. Balkema, 1960, hardcover, facsimile reprint , 21 cms x 26.2 cms x 4.7 cms, ex-central reference library book with usual stamps & labels, otherwise condition: very good.

Originally published in 1838, this text draws upon official documents such as council resolutions and official journals, as well as statistics and local people's oral accounts, in order to explore the history of the treatment of the indigenous population of South Africa between 1649 and 1819. It was compiled, edited and translated by Scottish colonial official Donald Moodie (17941861), a 'liberal-minded British Colonist', who had emigrated to South Africa in 1820, originally as a farmer, and rose to the position of magistrate, and later 'Protector of the Slaves'. He was often critical of colonists' behaviour towards the indigenous tribes; he conducted interviews with the local populace during his investigations, earning himself the title of 'South Africa's pioneer oral historian'. This reissue includes only Parts 1, 3 and 5 of Moodie's investigation, as Parts 2 and 4 were never published.

 Smith states that at first Government aid was available, but because of opposition from the influential Exeter House group and the SA Commercial Advertiser, financial support was withdrawn in July 1839. By means of public subscription it was possible to continue for a while, but as is evident from the Circular to the subscribers dated 5 October and appended to Correspondence between Donald Moodie Esq. and the Rev Philip (A.S. Robertson, 1841) sufficient support was not forthcoming. It would therefore appear that THE RECORD ceased after March 1842, if the note on page 65 of Part 111 has been correctly interpreted. (From the introduction by Anna H. Smith, City Libarian of the City of Johannesburg)