Chimneys in the Clouds – An Overview of Many of the Historic Buildings in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands (1845–1925) – (Signed by D. N. Dorning and Alex Bundock)

A scarce signed first edition of Chimneys in the Clouds, D. N. Dorning’s celebrated study of the historic buildings, settlements, and personalities of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Published in Howick in 1997 and illustrated throughout by Alex Bundock, this important regional history records the architectural heritage of one of South Africa’s most distinctive landscapes.

Covering historic areas including Howick, Karkloof, Curry’s Post, Boston, Tweedie, Dargle, Nottingham Road, and Balgowan, Chimneys in the Clouds examines the buildings that shaped the Midlands between 1845 and 1925. Rather than focusing solely on architecture, Chimneys in the Clouds explores the lives of the settlers, farmers, clergy, entrepreneurs, and families who built and occupied these structures, creating a richly detailed account of local social history.

Alex Bundock’s finely executed illustrations add considerable charm and historical value, capturing many of the buildings and landmarks discussed in the text. The inclusion of the original fold-out map further enhances the book’s usefulness for researchers, collectors, and local historians.

Particularly desirable is the fact that this copy has been signed by both D. N. Dorning and Alex Bundock on the title page. Signed examples are encountered far less frequently than standard copies and are sought after by collectors of KwaZulu-Nataliana, Midlands history, local architecture, and South African heritage publications.

Chimneys in the Clouds is an excellent addition to any collection relating to Natal history, settler heritage, genealogy, architecture, or the Midlands Meander region.

Condition – Very Good Signed Paperback.

Covers show light to moderate shelf wear with slight age-related yellowing. Foxing is present throughout, particularly on the title page and page edges. Fold-out map at the rear is present. Signed by both D. N. Dorning and illustrator Alex Bundock on the title page. Previous owner’s name and address stamp appear on the title page. Binding remains firm and the book is complete and entirely readable.