Kekwick to his brother

William Kekwick wrote to his brother from the Chambers brothers' station, Moolooloo, in early February 1860. Stuart had just returned from his third expedition on which he had discovered a number of mound springs. These were valuable water resources leading towards northern South Australia and their bearings were laid down: Beresford Springs, Strangways Springs, William Springs and Fanny Springs. Stuart continued north, surveying as he went. He also explored the verge of Lake Eyre more closely, venturing onto the salt surface but sinking some distance into it. As well, some prospecting was done, but no minerals were found. At length, in late December Stuart decided to return, as provisions were running low. The expedition had reached further north into South Australia than anyone previously had. While Stuart remained at Chambers Creek Kekwick returned to Chambers' Station at Moolooloo with reports of the land surveyed, and to seek more men and horses.

This was for another expedition (Stuart's fourth) and Kekwick would remain with him for this and all the following expeditions. He tells his brother of their discoveries, refers to Alexander Tolmer's failed expedition into the interior and of the seeds of various plants he had collected. He also refers to a package of dried fish that he and Stuart had collected from the drying verges of Lake Eyre. This had been buried at their camp for later collection but had apparently disappeared.

Permission to use this item for any purpose, including publishing, is not required from the State Library under these conditions of use.

Buy a high resolution copy.