Discover the gripping historical narrative of 'Pay Dirt: The Westland Goldfields' by Hilary Low, a captivating account of gold prospecting in West Canterbury. This brand new paperback, measuring 170 x 240 mm with 160 pages, delves into the compelling journey of William Smart, an English settler who ventured into the wild for riches in 1862. The book details not only the thrilling quest for gold but also the socio-cultural dynamics of early P?keh? and M?ori interactions in this uncharted territory. Smarts’ firsthand account, written after years of struggle and a quest for recognition, offers unique insights into the challenges of survival and the human spirit amid the harsh realities of the gold rush era. With Hilary Low’s adept commentary, readers will gain a deeper understanding of Canterbury's historical pursuit of its goldfields and the intertwined stories of hope, tenacity, and betrayal. This significant volume is perfect for history buffs, gold mining enthusiasts, and those interested in New Zealand's rich cultural heritage. With stock available in New Zealand, customers benefit from no unexpected import charges or customs duties. Enjoy combined shipping options at checkout for added convenience. Grab your copy today and uncover the fascinating history of New Zealand's gold rush adventure!

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 170 x 240 mm
Pages: 160
Bind: paperback
Author: Hilary Low Publisher: Canterbury University Press
Publication Date: 17-10-2016

‘Pay Dirt: ‘The Westland Goldfields’, from the diary of William Smart’ is the fascinating story of how payable gold was discovered in West Canterbury, and of claims to the government’s rich gold reward. It tells how English settler, William Smart, left Christchurch in 1862 to prospect for gold in the uncharted wilderness of the West Coast. Then, in 1887, long after the Canterbury government granted another prospector the reward, which Smart regarded as rightfully his, he was provoked to write his own ‘history’ of the early gold discoveries. ‘The Westland Goldfields’ was his attempt to set the record straight; but, incidentally, he produced a unique eye-witness account of early P?keh? on the Coast, prospecting alongside M?ori, braving the hazardous environment, isolation and ever-present risk of starvation – before the region was overwhelmed by the gold rushes of the 1860s. Smart’s account, together with his drawings, is published here for the first time. Hilary Low has done a superb job of presenting Smart’s manuscript, and complementing it with a lively commentary on Canterbury’s quest for its own goldfield, and the extraordinary saga of its gold reward – a tale of hope and persistence, lies and fraud.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.