A very early colony surgeon - largely forgotten
On a visit to Rookwood, some time ago now, a rather imposing old headstone caught my eye whilst I was looking for distant family members. There was quite a lengthy description on the headstone that usually means a person of importance. Here is what I found... ARTHUR SAVAGE (@1798-1852) Arthur's early life prior to coming to these shores is sketchy to say the least but it appears he was probably the elder of two sons born to Arthur Savage, a merchant, coffee planter and slave owner and Jane Bowie, of Kingston Jamaica. Arthur was however born in Ireland. Arthur gained the diploma of the Royal College of Surgeons in London and was appointed Assistant Surgeon in the Royal Navy in March 1820. He was promoted to Surgeon, Royal Navy in July 1826. He was appointed to the "Winchester" in 1832. As Surgeon-Superintendent he went in the convict ships "John" to Hobart in 1833, "Norfolk" to Hobart in 1835 and "Captain Cook" to Sydney in 1836, as well ...