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SUMMARY
For many years, prior to the advent of the electronic age, the South African survey system with its well monumented control beacons was the envy of many countries, especially those of the New World.
The success of the integrated system plus the ease with which all types of surveys could be based on the system led to South African surveyors being referred to as fellows with 0.01 mentality. This 0.01 figure was a reference to the days prior to metrication when urban cadastral diagrams and general plans required distances to 0.01 of a foot!
It is rather strange that the cockiness and pride in the system resulted from the initiative and perseverance of astronomers and not surveyors! Though pretty strict requirements have been in force for many years regarding the training and expertise of land surveyors preparing cadastral plans, the pioneers who initiated the control system on which also these surveys are based, were never entitled to and could never undertake cadastral surveys.
It is hoped that this historical resumé will in addition to giving a brief summary of events, ensure that credit and honour are given where due. It covers a period of over 100 years when surveying not only required above average scientific ability but also demanded tremendous physical effort and perseverance.