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What do I need to know?

The name of the convict.

How do I search?

The register is divided into several sections. The page reference numbers for each of the sections appears in an index that is on the very first page of the register. Use the index to find the most relevant section for what you are seeking, or browse the entire volume.

This record is now accessible as a digitised volume (the contents have not yet been indexed for searching so you will need to browse each of the sections as described in the previous paragraph).

 

About these records

The volume in this series contains a number of lists relating to the management of convicts in the Port Phillip District (from 1851 Victoria). Convicts came to Victoria as assigned servants with private persons and as workers on government projects.

Who created these records?

1842-1851 Superintendent, Port Phillip District (VA 473)

1851-1854 Colonial Secretary's Office (VA 856)

What are in these records?

Arranged in alphabetical sections, the first list in the volume is of Assigned servants (Melbourne, Counties of Bourke and Western Port) for which the dates are unclear. Details given are

  • the name of the assigned servant
  • the ship (upon which the convict had been transported to Tasmania or to New South Wales)
  • the year
  • the sentence and the authority
  • the name of the assignee (the employer) 
  • how the convict was employed and punishment awarded by this Bench (presumably the Melbourne Bench of Magistrates).

Space was allowed for an indication of the date upon which the convict obtained a Ticket-of-Leave, a Conditional or Absolute Pardon and a Certificate of Freedom.

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