Seaman Settlers of Colonial Norfolk Island 1788 – 1814
One may ask why after publishing many historical books on Norfolk Island’s Colonial Settlement 1788 – 1814, that we are now addressing the Seamen Settlers of Norfolk Island? Because they are many times cast aside in the history of Norfolk Island and are rarely mentioned as a standalone class of people, who found themselves living on Norfolk Island. Understanding the lives and contributions of seamen settlers provides a more comprehensive picture of Norfolk Island’s rich colonial history.
The Seamen Settlers of Norfolk Island were not just from the late HMS Sirius but were also from the late Endeavour shipwrecked at Dusky Sound (Tamatea) South Island New Zealand in late 1795 and abandoned seaman from the late East Indiaman Hunter 1799 shipwrecked on Norfolk Island among others. Shipwrecks are a testament to the challenging maritime conditions and form an important part of Norfolk Island’s history. Not all the Seaman Settlers worked as seafarers on Norfolk Island but were farmers and general labourers, with some eventually returning to the sea after leaving Norfolk Island.
Seaman Settlers of Colonial Norfolk Island 1788 – 1814 is being launched on Norfolk Island in October 2024, Cathy Dunn, Australian History Research, ISBN: 978-0-6455512-6-6. $26.00 includes Australian wide postage.
