Through Samurai Eyes - Part Two
If you enjoyed Part One of the ABC’s “The History Listen”, then click on the link below to hear Part Two.
The Port Arthur convict’s book with an entry for William Swallow (right) at the end, from 1829. (Courtesy: Libraries Tasmania)
It tells the harrowing story of how on 6 August 1829, the brig CYPRUS, a government-owned vessel used to transport goods, people, and convicts, set sail from Hobart Town for Macquarie Harbour Penal Station on a routine voyage carrying supplies and convicts under a guard commanded by Army Lt Carew. There were 62 people on board, including wives and children of some personnel, and 31 convicts.
Hobart Town 1829. Image courtesy of the Tasmanian Archive and Heritage Office.
On reaching Recherche Bay, isolated from the main settlement, the vessel was becalmed. Convicts allowed on deck attacked their guards and took control of the brig. The convicts marooned officers, soldiers, and convicts who did not join the mutiny in Recherche Bay, without supplies.
How they ended up in Japan, and eventually faced trial in England is an intriguing tale.