Our Wandering Continents

Our Wandering Continents is a landmark work in geology and paleogeography, authored by distinguished South African geologist Alexander L. du Toit and first published in 1937 by Oliver & Boyd. Spanning 366 pages and richly illustrated with 48 figures, the book presents du Toit’s evidence-based argument for continental drift, building on—and extending—Alfred Wegener’s early ideas.

In this volume, du Toit systematically compares geological, paleontological and climatic data from southern Africa to other parts of the world—most notably South America—to argue for the existence of ancient supercontinents. He proposes two major primordial lands: Gondwanaland in the southern hemisphere and Laurasia in the north. Du Toit also delves into orogenic (mountain-building) patterns, the distribution of fossil plants and animals, climatic zones, and geodetic evidence, showing how these all support his hypothesis of drifting continents.

More than a historical curiosity, Our Wandering Continents is still highly regarded by geologists today. Du Toit’s arguments, born of rigorous fieldwork and comparative stratigraphy, are recognized as remarkably prescient—and some of his insights align with modern plate-tectonic theory. For historians of geology, earth-science students and collectors of classic scientific works, this 1937 edition remains a foundational and deeply influential text.