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Down / Robert Flanagan b 1768 Newry Public Enemy No. 1!
« on: Thursday 19 August 10 13:46 BST (UK) »
This rascal- my ancestor - was tried in 1791 & transported to Australia in 1793.
His offence was highway robbery but i'm fascinated to learn that he was prosecuted by a public subscription raised in Newry, and that 5 "Gentlemen of Newry" wrote to the authorities requesting that his sentence not be commuted, unless it be to transportation for life.
He was constantly in & out of Downpatrick prison...and "a villain and a robber" to boot.
In NSW he married & had 2 daughters, but seems to have disappeared without trace, possibly having attempted to escape....
I wonder if there is a collection of tales about Irish/ Co. Down convict transportees, or if anyone has any recollection of hearing about this reprobate? Any rellies still around? Anyone?
His offence was highway robbery but i'm fascinated to learn that he was prosecuted by a public subscription raised in Newry, and that 5 "Gentlemen of Newry" wrote to the authorities requesting that his sentence not be commuted, unless it be to transportation for life.
He was constantly in & out of Downpatrick prison...and "a villain and a robber" to boot.
In NSW he married & had 2 daughters, but seems to have disappeared without trace, possibly having attempted to escape....
I wonder if there is a collection of tales about Irish/ Co. Down convict transportees, or if anyone has any recollection of hearing about this reprobate? Any rellies still around? Anyone?