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Jennifer Jones's avatar

We owe so much to our convict ancestors Peter for the life we have today. To be convicted to transportation must have been a dreadful shock but then to have to endure such voyages is unimaginable. I cannot imagine what it must have been like for someone so young to know it was very unlikely that they would see family again. I do hope that you’re planning to write more of Hannah’s story.

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Peter Anthony's avatar

Thank you, Jennifer. Yes, I do plan to keep writing about Hannah—there is so much more to tell. I agree with you about the unimaginable nature of those voyages, especially for someone so young and alone. Her story, like so many others, reminds us how deeply the foundations of modern Australia are built on hardship, survival, and separation. Your comment means a lot as I keep working on this.

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Anne’s Family History's avatar

Absolutely fascinating. I also had a relative on the Broxbornebury - not a convict but a passenger - John Horsely - the husband of my 4th great grand aunt. He emigrated but she did not - their marriage had broken down. https://anneyoungau.wordpress.com/2013/01/27/maria-champion-crespigny-born-1776-married-john-horsley/

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Jane Hutcheon's avatar

Good story-telling Peter.

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Peter Anthony's avatar

Thanks Jane, glad you enjoyed it.

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Helene | Letters from LaBelle's avatar

I can’t imagine the turmoil Hannah’s 20th year was for her. To be torn from her family and placed in a convict ship knowing she’d never see her family again. A really well written piece. I felt like I was sailing right along with Hannah. Looking forward to the next installment of her story.

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Paul Chiddicks's avatar

A remarkable tale of courage and determination in the face of a harrowing journey. Her new chapter was only just beginning. To be sentenced to transportation must have been a terrifying blow, and the thought of surviving such a voyage is almost beyond comprehension. I can't begin to imagine what it was like for someone so young, knowing they would likely never see their family again. I truly hope you’re considering writing more about Hannah’s story. Your research honors her courage and ensures her story will be remembered by generations to come. Thank you for sharing this, Peter.

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Dyfan Gwyn Jones's avatar

What a journey for poor Hannah, but your research is a testament to her bravery and ensures her memory will last forever for her decendants. Thank you for writing this Peter.

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Diane the FH Bowerbird's avatar

A wonderful story of courage and resilience to survive a perilous journey. Her new life was just beginning. Mr Jeffrey Bent and Mr John Horsley fell foul of Lachlan Macquarie, like my ancestor Thomas Rose, who was penalised with loss of land grants for seditious conduct.

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Peter Anthony's avatar

Thanks, Diane. Have you researched the life of Jeffrey Bent? I found "A Stormy Passage" by Bent to be a fascinating read. What struck me most was how, at times, Bent’s views of the convicts seemed far more sympathetic and understanding than many of his contemporaries.

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Diane the FH Bowerbird's avatar

My research has only touched on Jeffrey Bent as I looked at my ancestors in the Governor Macquarie years.

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Peter Anthony's avatar

Right. I can add it to my list of people to investigate further.

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Xanthe Hall's avatar

Excellently researched and written. Looking forward to more.

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Barbara at Projectkin's avatar

What an unbelievable story of strength and endurance. I'm simply humbled.

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MamaCarole's avatar

Peter, wonderful story of your ancestor. It's given me a taste of a world and culture I know nothing about; until now. I can't wait to read more!

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Jane Chapman's avatar

The ship surgeon journals from convict voyages are great! ... And, in this case, there is a journal kept by one of the passengers as well! - Even better! This descriptive account of this voyage makes me feel like I was almost on the ship with them at times. It must have been awful for these women ... Not just the journey (which was bad enough) but the travel into the unknown ... Not knowing how things would turn out for them once they arrived in Australia.

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