People Australia

William Poultney (c.1798-1854) was found guilty on 8 August 1821 at the Worcester Assizes, of breaking and entering and stealing. Sentenced to life transportation he arrived at Van Diemen's Land (Tasmania) aboard the Prince of Orange in July 1822.

Convict Conduct Record:
29 October 1825 — refusing to work and exciting mutiny — Maria Island remitted by Governor Arthur on 15 December 1825

8 October 1826 — absent from his lodgings between 9 and 10 last night — discharged

5 June ? — neglect of duty, insolence, and being absent from his master's without permission — 30 lashes and returned to his master.

Poultney was granted a conditional pardon on 29 February 1836. Describing himself as a widower he had married Charlotte Holland on 13 April 1835 at New Norfolk; both signed the register with a mark. Richard and Mary Usher were witnesses at the wedding. It is not known when Charlotte died. William married Margaret Robertson on 9 February 1841 at the Anglican Church in Hamilton; both signed the register with a mark. Joseph Smith witnessed the wedding. The couple had at least five children.

Described as a carrier, William Poultney died of rheumatic fever on 23 October 1854 at Hamilton in Tasmania. His age was given as 58.