Who was the oldest person on the First Fleet?
The oldest person on the First Fleet was likely Dorothy Handland, also known as Dorothy Coolley.
Dorothy Handland: A Senior Convict on the First Fleet
Dorothy Handland, born Dorothy Coolley, holds the distinction of being perhaps the oldest convict transported with the First Fleet. Her birth year is estimated to be around 1705, though some records suggest it could be as late as 1726. This would mean she was between approximately 62 and 82 years old when the First Fleet departed England in 1787.
- Age at Departure: Depending on her exact birth year (c. 1705/26), she would have been a remarkably elderly individual for such a arduous journey and the harsh conditions of a new penal colony.
- Convict Status: She was among the thousands of convicts sentenced to transportation to Australia, often for petty crimes driven by poverty or necessity.
- Significance: Her presence on the First Fleet highlights the wide demographic range, including the elderly, who were subjected to transportation as part of Britain's penal system. Their endurance of the voyage and the early years of the colony is a testament to their resilience.
The First Fleet comprised a diverse group of over 1,400 individuals, including marines, sailors, civil officers, and convicts. While many were young, healthy adults, there were also children and a significant number of older individuals like Dorothy Handland, whose stories contribute to the complex tapestry of Australia's founding.
For further details on Dorothy Handland's life and her role within the First Fleet, you can refer to relevant historical accounts, such as her entry on Wikipedia.
