Historical information

This petition was a formal request signed by 2,626 citizens of Bendigo urging George Lansell, a local mining entrepreneur known as the "Quartz King" to return from London to help revitalise the local gold mining industry. By 1887, Bendigo's economy had declined. The petition was organised with a belief Lansell’s expertise and leadership were essential to "restore the good times" to the city.

Physical description

Leather bound, gold embossing on borders of cover and inside folder. Front text in gold print: 'presented to George Lansell Esq by the residents of Bendigo June 1887' Inside: illuminated address to George Lansell, London, imploring him to return to Bendigo ' Your long absence from Bendigo is keenly felt ..' Address written in black calligraphy surrounded by water colour flowers.