Level 3 Mortlock Wing State Library of South Australia North Terrace Adelaide SA 5000

John McDouall Stuart’s diaries

These two manuscript diaries were made by Stuart during his penultimate crossing of Australia November 1860 to July 1861 and July to September 1861. His next and last crossing was successfully completed during 1861-62 and he arrived back in Adelaide in early 1863. No other manuscripts exist.

Stuart 06

Both volumes have an ink note, the first on flyleaf, the second on title page:  'J. McDouall Stuart's Diary'. 

Both diaries are in minute writing in pencil. The first volume has now partly illegible pencil notes inside covers and on front flyleaf. Inside front cover is a printed label: 'Improved Patent Metallic Book' etc., holder for pencil at side, metal clasp, part of it now unattached. Volume 2 is a Letts' Diary 1861 with pocket and flap. With the diaries are two leaves bearing parts of what appears to be the manuscript or draft of Stuart's report on the expedition.

The Society has a number of artefacts and treasures pertaining to Stuart including books, parliamentary papers, maps and sketches as well as those items included in the Treasures web pages

Located in the State Library's Rare Books Room