Stebonheath was a 926-ton ship, rigged as a traditional sailing vessel, constructed in 1842 at Wincolmlee, Hull. Measuring 145.3 feet in length, 33 feet in breadth, and with a depth of 23.3 feet, the Stebonheath was a substantial ship of its time. Registered in London under the ownership of Wilson & Co., the ship was actively involved in transporting passengers and goods between England and the Australian colonies during the mid-19th century, a period marked by significant migration to Australia.[1]

History

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The Voyage of 1849: Plymouth to Port Adelaide

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On January 30, 1849, the Stebonheath embarked on a voyage from Plymouth, England, under the command of Captain John Sargeant. The ship set sail for Port Adelaide, South Australia, a journey that would take over three months across the treacherous waters of the Southern Ocean. This voyage was part of the larger wave of British migration to Australia, where many passengers sought new opportunities in the burgeoning colonies. The ship successfully arrived at Port Adelaide on May 10, 1849, marking the end of a long and arduous journey that was typical of the period.[citation needed]

The 1850 Voyage: London to Port Adelaide

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The Stebonheath set out again the following year, this time departing from London on May 31, 1850. Once again under the command of Captain John Sargeant, the ship was bound for Port Adelaide. This voyage was similar in purpose to the previous one, transporting both passengers and cargo to the rapidly growing settlement in South Australia. After a journey lasting more than three months, the Stebonheath reached its destination on September 14, 1850. Both of these voyages are reflective of the broader patterns of migration and trade in the 19th century, where ships like the Stebonheath played a crucial role in connecting Britain with its distant colonies. The ship's involvement in these voyages illustrates the challenges and opportunities of sea travel during this era, as well as the determination of those who sought new lives in the Australian colonies.[1]

References

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  1. ^ a b "Ship Stebonheath". South Australian Maritime Museum - Passengers in History. History Trust of South Australia. 21 January 2016. Retrieved 1 September 2024.