Historical information

George Lansell was persuaded to begin investing in the newly forming mining companies of Bendigo, from 1855. His first investments failed, he lost money, and refocused on his original businesses.
In 1865 George re-entered mining and with substantial investment was able to dictate the mining practices of his companies. His approach, of mining ever deeper than had been reached before, was so successful that he became known as the Quartz King of Bendigo. He soon became a millionaire. For a time, he may have been the richest man in the world.

In 1871 Lansell purchased the Ballerstedt mines, equipment, machinery and mansion from the now deceased Christopher’s son, for 30,000 pounds. Although this was a large sum for the times, it demonstrated Lansell’s sound judgement: under his direction, the 180 Mine was extended down to over 3000 feet, becoming the deepest mine in the southern hemisphere at the time. By 1889, it was estimated that Ballerstadt and Lansell, over the time of the mine’s operation, had taken out at least a million pounds worth of gold from it.

Mr. Lansell returned to England in about 1882 and took up his residence in Surrey, just across the river from London.

There, when in his sixtieth year, he married Miss Edith Bassford, who was of English birth, but who was reared in Bendigo, where he first met her and her family.

After a residence of seven years in Surrey Mr. Lansell and family returned to Bendigo, having been requested to do so by many leading citizens, who felt that it needed his presence and energy to keep mining in quartzopolis on the up grade. He was heartily welcomed by them on his return. Since then he has lived a quiet, uneventful life at his beautiful residence, "Fortuna."

George Lansell travelled extensively, from the 1870’s, and extended his Fortuna Villa residence greatly, embellishing it as his fancy was inspired by his travels. Likewise it was filled with unusual items acquired on those travels. The surrounds did not miss out, being extensively landscaped and developed with features like ornamental lakes, a classical fountain, enclosed Roman style baths.

Physical description

Fortuna Articles - Photo of George Lansell's residence in England

This item contains the following document:

11217.66a Black and white Photo Print of George Lansell's residence in England 10 x 8 inches, on rear of photo is written "George Lansell's Residence in England between 1881 and 1887

11217.66b Black and white Negative of George Lansell's residence in England 10 x 8 inches - Contact BHS for details

Publication type

non-fiction