1827

 

6th May Mary Ann Benton is born in Lower Minto.

 

A month later on the 3rd June Mary Ann Benton is baptised in St Luke’s Church Liverpool(35).

 

The Baptism of Mary Ann was presided over by the Rev. Robert Cartwright, Chaplain, land owner, Magistrate, and a man interested in the general welfare of the aboriginals. The construction of St Luke’s was an initiative of Governor Macquarie.

 

Rev. Cartwright was keen to begin using the new building. In his haste, and in spite of administrative advice to wait until fitting out was complete, he used his own furniture during services. Consequently, and in the true style of administrative thinking that still persists, the final details took years to complete. Whether the shenanigans that ensued with the colonial administration were a distraction or not, somehow the Rev Cartwright forgot to consecrate the Church, an oversight that was finally rectified 150 years later.

 

Other research into Hannah’s life suggests she received a ToL in 1827. It’s possible but so far I’ve not been able to find any official reference to support the suggestion. (If a record exists could anyone please send me a copy or a reference).

 

ToL’s were a very important documents for a convict and given general wear and tear they needed renewal roughly every 2 years.

 

 

 

1828

 

Hannah and Thomas are nowhere to be found when the Census was taken later in the year.