Researchers who have claimed this convict
There is currently one researcher who has claimed William Poynton
Biographies
Arrived in NSW on the Woodbridge, 26 February, 1840 (departed UK October 10, 1839) following being sentenced to transportation for life for the crime of desertion by the Upper Canada Court Martial on November 2, 1838. Described as single, soldier and labourer, native of Roscommon. Aliases: Pointon/Ponton. Two previous convictions.
Soldier of the 32nd (Cornwall) Regiment of Foot. The 32nd (Cornwall) Regiment of Foot was formed in 1702, designated as 32nd Regiment in 1751, and became the Cornwall Regiment in 1782. A part of the regiment was with the Boston force which formed a settlement at Annapolis Royal in Nova Scotia (c. 1705), and was afterwards employed in the unsuccessful attempt against Quebec. During a stay of eleven years in Canada, from 1830 to 1841, the 32nd had some sharp work with the insurgents, and their American sympathisers, on the lakes during the winter of 1838-9. The 32nd was sent to Upper Canada in January 1838. From 26 February to 3 March, 1838, Republicans occupy Pelee island, Lake Erie; routed by regulars of 32nd and 83rd Regiments and the Essex Militia by 3 March.
William was described on the records of the Fortitude, which transported him from Canada to the UK following his trial, as being 5'7" tall. (Source: The National Archives of the UK, Microfilm Publication CO207/9). He was also described on other records as being of sallow complexion, having light brown hair and bluish eyes. Unable to read or write. Character described as "bad". Source: Hulk Register for the Woodbridge. NB: Another record has him as being able to both read & write.
The 229 male convicts (one having died on the way out) per 'Woodbridge' landed at Port Jackson, Sydney. 80 were sent in the Augusta Jessie to Norfolk Island and the remainder sent to different places in the interior.
Assigned master C J La Trobe who was shown as a resident of Bourke Street, Melbourne, in the 1841 Census. La Trobe was the President of the fledgling Port Phillip Savings Bank and went on to become the first Governor of Victoria.
Recommended conditional pardon 1846. Recommenders: C L La Trobe, Foster Fyans JP.
Royal Warrant pardon granted 17 September 1849. Advertised in Sydney Morning Herald, March 30, 1850.
Hawkers & Peddlars License granted from 1 January, 1851 - 31 December, 1851 on 10 December 1850. Source: Colac: Court of Petty Sessions Records 1859 -1865
Submitted by Researcher (824) on 25 June 2020
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There are currently no research notes attached to this convict. Sources
- The National Archives (TNA) : HO 11/12, p.110
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