THE GOLD MINES OF THE WITWATERSRAND (1904)

First edition copy in near fine condition. This comprehensive work contains all important facts and statistics about the gold mines of the Witwatersrand, as well as the determination of their value. A sound copy with 4 multiple folding tables and numerous diagrams, plans, tables and calculations.

With 4 folding plans, tables and diagrams (1 in text block & 3 in pocket at the rear):

1) Locality-Plan showing comparative yields on Basis of Tonnage Milled of Outcrop Mines and Corresponding Deep-Levels;

2) Analysis of Working Expenditure (Outcrop Mines, Central Witwatersrand);

3) Analysis of Working Expenditure (Deep-Level Mines, Central Witwatersrand);

4) Geological Sections across the Witwatersrand Formation (large multiple folding diagram - 145 x 48 cm) which contains:

- N°I - Section from Orange Grove to Roodekop;

- N°II - Section from Zuurfontein to the Black Reef on Klippoortje;

- N°III - Section from Kromdraai to Rietvlei;

- N°4 - Section from Luipaard's Vlei to the Gatsrand;

- General Map with References.

This is an extremely rare copy of this precious work, hard to find even in National and University Libraries - and the only copy selling on internet!

"The gold mines of the Witwatersrand and the determination of their value; by L. Kessler, Mining Engineer, author of Valuation Plan of the Witwatersrand Goldfields."; Original hard covers. Gilt title to the front cover and spine; Text in English; Collation complete - Title page, xii, 135 pages, with 3 multiple folding tables in pocket at the rear and numerous diagrams and plans (1 multiple folding) in text block; Binding with minor bumping to the extremities, minimal signs of use, otherwise strong, tight and firm, overall in immaculate condition. The content/text block and folding tables are bright and clear, free of marks, no foxing throughout, only a few insignificant traces of use, overall in excellent condition.

Leopold Kessler (4 February 1867 - 3 January 1944) was German mining engineer. He studied at the mining academy in Freiberg, then for a year at the Royal School of Mines in Berlin, and returned to Freiberg to complete his studies. After working for some time as a mining engineer in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) he settled in Johannesburg in 1893 and took part in the development of Crown Mines and the Kleinfontein gold mine. In June 1894 he requested a patent for a new method to make bricks from mine tailings and mud. That same year he became a member of the newly established Chemical and Metallurgical Society of South Africa (from 1902 the Chemical, Metallurgical and Mining Society of South Africa). He was still a member in 1905, when he was listed as a consulting mining engineer and metallurgist, but of unknown address. He was an early member also of the Geological Society of South Africa (founded in 1895) and of the South African Association for the Advancement of Science (founded in 1902). In 1902 he published his "Valuation plan of the Witwatersrand goldfields" (London, 1902), followed two years later by "The gold mines of the Witwatersrand and the determination of their value" (London, 1904). Kessler's last known address in South Africa is Rayton, Transvaal - a town established in 1903 some 40 km east of Pretoria by the Montrose Diamond Mining Company. He left South Africa around 1906 and during his subsequent career was involved in mining in Morocco, the United States, and Cuba. He died on 3 January 1944, in New York (USA). (https://www.s2a3.org.za/bio/Biograph_final.php?serial=1520)

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