Researchers who have claimed this convict
There is currently one researcher who has claimed William Heskins
- Researcher (Janet HESKINS)
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Biographies
I have now found out a little more about William Heskins of Horsley, who was transported to Van Diemens Land for stealing a ewe lamb... Having been apprehended, along with Charles Smart, by the local police constable, he was tried at Gloucester Quarter Sessions on 8th March 1837. His sentence was transportation for life [99 years].
The first part of the sentence took place on a 'hulk' possibly in the River Medway. About six months later, on October 7th 1837 he left England on board The Neptune, arriving in Hobart on January 18th 1838. It was reported that his conduct on the hulk was 'orderly' and the surgeon general stated that, presumably his state of health was 'good'.
On arrival he worked for Mr Peevor, presumably as a labourer. However, his behaviour was no longer 'orderly'. He absconded from Mr Peevor on 6th May 1840, at which time he was charged with stealing a gun and a quantity of powder and shot.
There are some more notes available but they are difficult to read... 'under suspicious circumstances 10 days solitary confinement...Drunk, 10 days solitary confinement... Insolence, 36 lashes on March 23rd 1841... 26th July 1841, absent from his master's premises without leave and found on those of Mr Paice.
The account ends there, not mentioning what became of him. I know that the person from whom he had stolen the lamb made a petition that he should be allowed home. Alternatively he may have transferred to the Australian mainland and could have lived under a different name. There was a suggestion that he used an alias. People from Horsley had emigrated to Australia in 1825. Maybe they knew what had become of him via letters from home. Maybe we shall never now William's fate...
Submitted by Researcher (Janet HESKINS) on 5 March 2021
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Disclaimer: The information has not been verified by Claim a Convict. As this information is contributed, it is the responsibility of those who use the data to verify its accuracy. Research notes
There are currently no research notes attached to this convict. Sources
- The National Archives (TNA) : HO 11/11, p.163
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