The heaviest ship in the First Fleet, based on its burthen, was the Alexander.
Understanding the Alexander: The First Fleet's Largest Transport
The Alexander was a significant vessel among the eleven ships that comprised the First Fleet, which sailed from England in 1787 to establish the first European settlement in Australia. While "heaviest" can refer to actual displacement, in historical naval contexts, "largest" often correlates with burthen, a measure of a ship's carrying capacity. At 452 tons burthen, the Alexander stood out as the largest transport ship in the fleet, playing a crucial role in carrying convicts and supplies to the new colony.
Key Characteristics of the Alexander
Built in Hull in 1783, the Alexander was a barque-built vessel, indicating a specific rigging configuration. She featured three masts and two decks, a common design for merchant vessels of her era. Despite her size, the Alexander was noted for her plain appearance, lacking the elaborate galleries or a decorative figurehead often seen on other ships of the period. Her crew comprised at least 30 individuals, responsible for the ship's navigation and maintenance throughout the arduous journey.
Here's a quick overview of the Alexander's key specifications:
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Ship Name | Alexander |
| Type | Barque-built transport ship |
| Year Built | 1783 |
| Builder | Hull, England |
| Burthen | 452 tons |
| Masts | Three |
| Decks | Two |
| Appearance | Plain, no galleries or figurehead |
| Crew | At least 30 |
The Alexander endured the long voyage to Botany Bay and eventually Port Jackson, contributing to the establishment of the British colony that would become modern-day Sydney. Her size made her indispensable for transporting a large number of male convicts, making her an integral part of this pivotal moment in Australian history.
For more details on the First Fleet and its ships, you can explore resources like the First Fleet Wikipedia page.
