Robert Knopwood facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert Knopwood
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| Born | 2 June 1763 England
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| Died | 18 September 1838 (aged 75) Tasmania, Australia
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| Occupation | clergyman |
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Robert Knopwood (born June 2, 1763 – died September 18, 1838) was an important early clergyman in Australia. He also kept a detailed diary, which tells us a lot about life in the early days of the colony.
Robert Knopwood's Early Life
Robert Knopwood was born in England. He was the third child of Robert and Elizabeth Knopwood. His family was quite wealthy. He went to Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, a famous university. He finished his studies in 1786 and became a priest a year later. After his studies, he joined the navy as a chaplain.
Journey to Australia
In 1804, Robert Knopwood joined an expedition led by Colonel Collins. Their goal was to start a new settlement in Australia. They first tried to settle at Port Phillip, but it didn't work out. So, they moved to a new location. On February 19, 1804, they landed at the place that would become Hobart in Tasmania.
Life in the New Colony
As the chaplain, Knopwood helped lead religious services for the settlers. He was also made a magistrate, which meant he helped keep law and order. He earned a salary for his work.
Robert Knopwood's Diary
One of the most important things Robert Knopwood did was keep a diary for over 30 years. This diary is now kept at the Mitchell Library in Sydney. It is a very special record because it tells us exactly what life was like for the first European settlers in Tasmania.
What the Diary Tells Us
His diary shows the many challenges faced by the pioneers. They often struggled to find enough food. It also describes the difficulties with bushrangers and the local Indigenous people. Despite these problems, the diary also shows how conditions slowly got better over time.
A Man of His Time
Knopwood's diary shows he lived in a tough era. He recorded harsh punishments given to convicts, which was common at the time. However, he also showed great kindness. For example, he helped two young boys who were sentenced to death. He managed to get their sentences changed at the last moment. He even prayed with them, and everyone was grateful for his actions.
Later Life and Legacy
Robert Knopwood was also interested in farming. He got seeds from England and was one of the first people to grow wheat, oats, vegetables, and fruit in the new colony. As the population grew, his work became even more important.
Retirement and Final Years
As he got older, Knopwood's health wasn't good. He asked to retire in 1821 because his eyesight was failing. His request was accepted, and he received a pension. He also received a grant of land. He moved to the east side of the Derwent River.
Many years before, Knopwood had adopted a young orphan girl. He loved her very much. After he passed away on September 18, 1838, her daughter placed a special tombstone for him. It describes him as "a steady and affectionate friend, a man of strict integrity and active benevolence, ever ready to relieve the distress and ameliorate the conditions of the afflicted." This shows how much he was respected and loved.
