1829: James Thurtell
1829: James Thurtell
James Thurtell, 18, gardener and baker’s apprentice, was tried and convicted at Norfolk Assizes in April 1829 for stealing shoes, spectacles, a tea chest, candlesticks and other items from Martha Chapman. He was sentenced to seven years’ transportation. He sailed for New South Wales on the Katherine S Forbes, leaving 7 October 1829 and arriving 19 February 1830.
Thurtell’s records show that he measured 5 feet 4 inches (1.6 metres), had a ruddy complexion and that he was missing the point of his right fourth finger. He also had a number of tattoos. He gained his ticket of leave in 1836 and his certificate of freedom on 9 February 1842. He married Maria Jane Culverson in 1841 in Kelso, New South Wales. His death certificate shows that he died in the Lunatic Asylum in Parramatta in 1861.
Diameter: 36mm, thickness: 3mm
Token engraved with stippled text and designs. The first line is engraved around the edge of the token:
TRANSPORTED
FOR
* 7 *
YEARS
1829
Token engraved with stippled text and designs. The first line is engraved around the edge of the token:
JAMES ◊ THURTELL
AGED
* 18 *
YEARS
* 1829 *
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Karen Adams
5th Apr 2018
I am a descendant of James Thurtell . About five years ago I discovered who his parents were through the historical research of my friend, I also discovered that the church where his birth would have been recorded was bombed in the Second World War, If anyone one is interested I would be happy to share my information.
Let’s go
19th Oct 2023
Hey I'm interested in knowing more he's great grandson is my great grandfather
Patrick
30th Oct 2023
Hi Karen, I’m a descendent of James Thurtell. I think he would be my great-great-great-great grandfather. I’d love to know what information you have on more family history. What would be a good way to contact you?
Helene
8th May 2014
I am a descendant of Maria Jane's sister Sarah. She too married an ex-convict Phil/lip E/dgerton. I love the sentiment of convict tokens and this is a fascinating link to my family history.