Published by Australian Biographical and Genealogical Record in association with the Society of Australian Genealogists.

The significance of the 1814 Muster lies in the fact that it records a microcosm of the colony at the end of the first generation of European settlement in NSW.

By 1814 the colony had been settled for over 25 years. Nearly 14,000 convicts had arrived in more than 80 transports. Some had served their sentences and were settled on the land with families; the majority held convict status and were assigned to employers or the government. Many officials, military and free settlers were serving or had settled in the colony and numerous children had been born in the colony.

The 1814 Muster includes references to the majority of people resident in NSW and presents a picture of a developing colony. The distribution of population and occupations within those regions shows the extent of settlement and activities being undertaken in each region. Those “At the Mountains” were building the road through the Blue Mountains, while the Lane Cove area housed a large tree felling operation.

The Muster appears to include individual entries for children who were over the age of 14, that is, those born before the turn of the century. As many children born in the early years of the colony were not baptised, the 1814 Muster may provide the first reference to their existence. Some were listed directly under their parents’ entries supplying confirmation of the family background.

Many convicts were assigned to masters who were generally officials, military or settlers. A picture of the assignment process and the importance of the various masters can be seen in the distribution of convicts.

The Muster also lists relationships for many of the women. These details often provide the only available evidence to suggest or confirm a relationship.

To those interested in Australian history and genealogy, the 1814 Muster provides an unequalled reference to the people and activities in New South Wales at the end of the first generation of European settlement.

Hard Cover- 233 pages
Excellent condition

Cost $95.00 (includes postage throughout Australia)
Available from Catherine Williams; postal order, or cheque, and details to:
Mrs. Catherine Williams, PO Box 4, CAIRNS, QLD. 4870
Enquiries: Email the author