Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
Level of description
Extent and medium
11 boxes
Context area
Name of creator
Biographical history
The Mercantile Defence Association of S.A. was established mid 1879 by V Lawrance and WJ Brook. Initially located at Melvin Chambers (subsequently the site of the Savings Bank Ltd.) the company relocated several times as it expanded. In 1889 manager George Searcy reorganised the company under the name Mercantile Trade Protection Association of S.A. Ltd. The aim of the company was to assist the business community and to help protect them against bad credit risks by providing up to date information on all business activities. It also provided a recovery of accounts service. Subscribers paid an annual fee of £2.2.0 and received a weekly Gazette, the first of which was published 21.5.1879.
The company was acquired by Dun & Bradstreet in 1968.
Repository
Content and structure area
Scope and content
Adelaide. Issued by the Mercantile Trade Protection Association of South Australia
Accruals
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use area
Conditions governing access
Open access