OLDEST & YOUNGEST FEMALE CONVICTS TO AUSTRALIA IN THE FIRST FLEET TALES In the fascinating YouTube video titled "OLDEST & YOUNGEST FEMALE CONVICTS TO AUSTRALIA IN THE FIRST FLEET TALES," viewers are introduced to the compelling stories of two women from the First Fleet: Elizabeth Hayward, the youngest female convict, and Dorothy Hanlon, the oldest.
Dorothy Hanlon: The Oldest Convict
Dorothy Hanlon, initially known as Dorothy Cooley, was married in 1766 but faced a tumultuous life as a widow and eventually as a convict. At the Old Bailey, her story took a tragic turn when she was convicted of willful and corrupt perjury, leading to a sentence of seven years’ transportation to Australia. Despite being transported at the age of 61, some records suggest she might have been as old as 82. Upon arrival in Australia, she was virtually ignored due to her advanced age, as the convict population largely consisted of younger individuals. Reports indicate she may have attempted suicide after her arrival. Interestingly, she was connected to the old children’s game, "the old woman from Botany Bay," which immortalizes her in Australian folklore.
Elizabeth Hayward: The Youngest Convict
In stark contrast, Elizabeth Hayward was only 13 when she was sent to Newgate Prison for allegedly stealing. Her background as an orphan highlights the struggles she faced, and upon transportation aboard the Lady Penryn, she became the youngest female convict in the First Fleet. Once in Australia, Elizabeth found herself serving in the household of Reverend Richard Johnson and faced harsh punishment for her "insolence." Her journey was fraught with trauma, particularly after enduring the shipwreck of HMS Sirius. Eventually, despite the adversities, she started a family and ended up acquiring land in Tasmania, showcasing the resilience of women convicts.
Inviting Discussion
This historical dive into the lives of Dororthy and Elizabeth raises intriguing points about the social dynamics of early Australian colonial society. How do you think the experiences of these women reflect the broader experiences of convicts during this period? Have you encountered other significant stories from Australia’s convict history that resonate with you? Feel free to share your thoughts or related experiences in the comments below!
