Eric M. Gourley Unique 1960s South Africa Motor Car Rallies Sketchbook, Ephemera and Photograph

Large oblong album of 32pp compiled by Eric M. Gourley in the 1960s. With 12 original pencil drawings and watercolour illustrations by Gourley and another six mechanical reproductions of other drawings by him. The album begins with his July 1966 letter of acceptance into The Vintage And Veteran Club. He appears to have been an architect: the ink, pencil and watercolour drawings are very good indeed, lively and humorous. Some have accompanying letters which suggests he did these sketches for other members of the club to illustrate them in their cars. Also included is a real photograph of Jim Clarke being presented with the wreath for winning the S.A Grand Prix. Perhaps of most importance are about 15 very old photographs, all captioned, three of The South African Automobile Club run to Vereeniging in 1907, apparently taken from another album. There are also 6 colour photographs, including 'self in Jaguar' and the second half of the album contains numerous newspaper cuttings and associated ephemera relating to the club and vintage motoring in general.

The album measures 38cm by 27cm, binding strong but centrefold loose, edges softening but clean inside and out and generally very pleasing indeed.

A unique piece of social history; interesting, colourful and with much research potential.