Annual report of the South African Institution read 13th June 1831

Abstract

This is the Annual Report of the South African Institution, read on June 13, 1831, reviewing the proceedings, subjects of attention, and acquisitions of the past year

Key Points:

• Membership & Attendance: The Institution admitted 10 new members, totalling 50 members and 14 non-member subscribers.

• Awards & Horticulture: No competitor appeared for the large Statistical Account premium. However, the first Show of Fruit, &c., in February was highly gratifying, and medals (including previously awarded Gold Medals) were presented to several individuals for excellence in horticulture (e.g., Figs, Peaches, Grapes, and Cabbages). The report emphasised the goal of promoting the improvement and introduction of useful and vegetable productions.

• Botany & Exploration: The Council was unable to independently fund a Botanic or Experimental Garden. It highlighted the significant efforts of Mr Von Ludwig, who was attempting to naturalise 207 distinct species of exotic plants and trees, including the successful introduction of the Cochineal Insect.

• Inter-Institutional Relations: The Institution established a correspondence and reciprocal membership privileges with the Société d'Histoire Naturelle de l'Isle Maurice (Natural History Society of Mauritius).

• Statistical Findings: The report presented notable crime statistics for the Albany District (1829), showing crime rates varying significantly by race.

• Geology & Meteorology: Fossil Remains of a large animal were discovered in the Karoo. The Institution regretted the lack of meteorological data collection across the colony, detailing the importance of universal observation for predicting seasonal changes and discussing the prevailing wind system.