Rules and Regulations of the South African Institution

Abstract

This document, "RULES REGULATIONS OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN INSTITUTION," printed in Cape Town in 1830, formally establishes the rules and structure for a scientific and exploratory body founded on June 17, 1829.

The primary objective of the Institution is to investigate the Geography, Natural History, and general Resources of South Africa.

Key Rules and Organisational Structure

• Support and Membership: The Institution is funded by contributions, subscriptions, and other resources. It comprises several membership categories: Ordinary Members (who hold voting power), Privileged Members, Honorary Members (eminent scientists residing abroad), Corresponding Members (those promoting the Institution's objectives), and Annual Subscribers (both Resident and Non-Resident). Admission for Ordinary and Corresponding Members requires a recommendation and a ballot.
• Governance: The Institution is led by Office-Bearers elected annually from the Ordinary Members, including a Patron (optional Chairman), a President (Chairman in Patron's absence), Four Vice Presidents, a Treasurer, Two Secretaries, and Nine Members of Council. The Council is responsible for the sole charge of funds, making By-Laws, and managing Repositories, with major property sales or purchases requiring sanction from Ordinary Members.
• Activities and Meetings: General Monthly Meetings (last Wednesday of the month) are held for hearing approved Essays, Communications, and Committee Reports. General Annual Meetings (first Monday in June) include reports from officers, a discourse on the progress of knowledge, and the election of Office-Bearers. The Museum, Gardens, and other Repositories are to be open to the public under Council-fixed regulations.
• Initial Members: The document includes a list of initial Privileged Members (including His Excellency the Hon. Sir G. L. Cole) and numerous Ordinary Members (e.g., Rev. Dr Adamson, Rev. F. Fallows, Dr Smith), demonstrating immediate, high-level support within the Colony.

In summary, the document outlines the foundational constitution of a significant early South African scientific society, detailing its purpose, funding, membership classifications, and a comprehensive governance framework.