Genealogy Chat

I've been told for years that one of our male ancestors owned/worked a part of Royston Heath in Hertfordshire. I think it may also be known as Therfield Heath. The story goes that the man shot an animal/bird on the heath and was arrested as it was a crime against the crown (?). He was apparently transported for 7 years to Australia. I have never believed this story as I couldn't find any indication that it was actually true. I also could account for all the male ancestors that it could have been in all the census return 1841-1901. (I didn't know then that this was actually supposed to have happened around 1820ish) However, in the last few weeks I've been told that some 10 years ago another member of our family did some research and wrote to Australia House in London concerning this story. He apparently received some documents back from Australia House including a pardon/petition. I have now been told that the male ancestor who was sentenced to be transported for 7 years was pardoned after his brother offered to help in return for the land owned to be signed over to him. This request was turned down and it caused a rift in the family which is why apparently the sory has lasted so long. The problem I am faced with is I have no idea where to go from here to try and find out the truth. The family member who did the reseach before died a few years ago and we have no contact with any relatives of his. I am told this 'story' happened sometime around 1820 and from my workings out I have 2 possible names. It was suggested to me that I write to Australia House but since I have no real hard information to give them I think it would be a waste of time. Does anyone have any ideas how, or even if, I can take this forward? I would simply like to know if it's true so that I can stop everyone nagging me to find out!! Thanks! Catherine

If the case was heard at the Old Bailey (London) the records might be searchable on the Internet. I found a case involving the theft of 50 pigeons from my great-great-grandfather in Greenford Middlesex. http://www(.)oldbaileyonline(.)org/ Remove brackets. Try this website. I hope you find what you are looking for.

Thanks for that, off to have a search now. You never know I might be lucky! Catherine

Hi Catherine If anyone was transported to New South Wales in the 1820s, there should be some record of him on the various convict websites. Start with www(.)records.nsw.gov.au and look for on-line indexes, convicts. Certificates of freedom are indexed there. If he is listed on the Claim-a-convict website, you may find someone else is or has researched him. Also NSW BDM indexes are online 1788-1906 (births) and 1788-1976 for deaths. Happy Hunting Diane Sydney