Chrononmeter

This chronometer belonged to Edward John Eyre, who was an explorer after whom Lake Eyre, and the Eyre Peninsula, were named. His explorations are well documented, in particular the expedition from South Australia to Albany (in WA) in 1840-41. Following this journey he was appointed resident magistrate and Protector of Aborigines at Moorundie on the Murray River, from 1841 until 1844. He is also known for pioneering irrigation on the river flats near his home in Moorundie. This object represents early attempts by colonialists to explore and map the interior of the colony of South Australia.

The chronometer and case were donated by Mrs Eyre, a descendent by marriage of Edward John Eyre, to the Art Gallery of South Australia, and later transferred to the History Trust of South Australia as part of the Historical Relics collection.