Sydney Cove …, 1789

Detailed sketch & description

This Is Where I Live

This engraving, one of only two known copies, is based on a drawing probably by Francis Fowkes, a former navy midshipman who had been transported for stealing a greatcoat and a pair of boots. Fowkes’s drawing was made on 16 April 1788, less than three months after the settlement was established. It was published in London on 24 July 1789.

At this time, Sydney was home to 1030 men, women and children. All the buildings were makeshift, though more permanent structures were on the way as ‘Shingling Party’, ‘Brick Field’ and the small numbered squares, which represent sawpits, indicate.

The sketch looks forward to better times. ‘Governors Mansion’ was actually a portable oilcloth tent, ‘neither wind nor weatherproof’. The foundation stone for a more solid Government House was not laid until 15 May 1788. The farm is shown as flourishing, whereas unpredictable weather and poor soil would keep the Colony dependent on imported food for some time.
Display item Sydney Cove …, 1789

 

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