Ireland, Irish, ancestory, history, convict, first fleet, Cassie Mercer, Barbara Hall, Marquis Cornwallis, genealogy, family history, research, Australian history.

Marquis Cornwallis ship

The first Irish Australians

Many of us know of the unique connection between Irish and Australian people. Experts in early Australian and convict history, Cassie Mercer and Barbara Hall, are helping us understand those first few years for Irish newcomers to New South Wales by inviting us to read some of their favourite stories they found in their research on this topic, which is so close to the hearts of many Australians.

"There are many colourful stories about the contributions these convicts made to Australia, and I look forward to sharing these with you over the next few months."
Cassie Mercer, editor of Inside History magazine, a new bi-monthly publication focusing on Australia and New Zealand’s genealogy, history and heritage. 

Visit our 'Tracing your Ancestors' page for some advice on exploring your own Irish heritage.

Cassie Mercer, historian
Death or Liberty book cover

The journey begins

In the first installment, Cassie and Barbara shared with us a convict’s journey from Ireland to Australia on the Marquis Cornwallis in 1796 introducing us to such characters as Jemmy the Schemer and James Don Butler. We hope you enjoy the first installment of our series!

Irish Vanguard book cover

The story continues

In this installment Cassie will introduce you to more Irish convicts who made it on to the pages of Australian history books including John Davis who helped save Sydney from starvation by building Australia's first windmill.