Kimberley, South Africa, circa 1888 - Mining
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Kimberley, South Africa, circa 1888 - Mining
Kimberley, South Africa, circa 1888 (Robert Harris studio) - Mining - Central Companys mineshaft. Date: circa 1888
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14357075
© Mary Evans Picture Library/Pump Park Photography
1888 Companys Harris Kimberley Mining Mineshaft
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, taken circa 1888 by the esteemed Robert Harris studio, offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Kimberley diamond mines in South Africa. The image showcases the Central Company's mineshaft, a testament to the relentless pursuit of wealth and resources that defined the diamond rush of the late 19th century. The scene is set against the arid, sun-scorched landscape of the Northern Cape, with the vast expanse of the African savannah stretching out in the background. The mineshaft, a vertical slit in the earth, stands as a monument to human ingenuity and determination. The wooden shaft house, perched precariously atop, houses the hoist and winding machinery that would transport miners and their loads to and from the depths below. The photograph captures the raw, elemental nature of the diamond mining process. Miners, dressed in tattered clothes and armed with picks and shovels, can be seen working diligently at the mine's entrance, their faces etched with the grit and determination that came with the promise of striking it rich. The air is thick with the sounds of pickaxes striking the rock, the clanging of metal against metal, and the distant echoes of drilling and blasting. The discovery of diamonds in Kimberley in 1867 ignited a global rush to the region, leading to the establishment of the De Beers Consolidated Mines in 1888. The mines would go on to produce some of the world's largest and most valuable diamonds, including the famous Cullinan Diamond, which weighed in at 3,106.75 carats. This photograph is a poignant reminder of the human stories that lie at the heart of South Africa's rich mining history, and the indelible mark that the diamond industry has left on the region and the world.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
