Convict and The Compass

This is a new book. Condition: Brand New.

Sentenced at 26 years old for his role in an uprising against British rule in Ireland, James Meehan arrived in Australia in 1800 as a servant to English explorer Charles Grimes.

Through talent and diligence, he rose to Acting Surveyor General of the young colony, working for five governors from 1800 to 1822. Meehan was instrumental in mapping the Sydney environs and planning the town's layout, as well as early expeditions to the Hunter Valley, Port Phillip Bay, King Island and Tasmania.

Kings and governors respected him and he played a crucial role in establishing Australia's first Roman Catholic place of worship, St Mary's Church. However, Meehan is a forgotten man in Australian historical writing. The story of how this Irish political prisoner became a fine explorer, conscientious surveyor and excellent busman, is at the heart of Peter Bradley's thoroughly researched historical non-fiction.

Book details and technical specifications

Format: Hardback
ISBN13: 9781920727420
Published: November 2025

Number of pages: 616
Width: 153 mm
Height: 234 mm
Depth: not specified

Publisher: Ventura Press