People Australia

  • searches all National Centre of Biography websites
  • searches all National Centre of Biography websites
  • searches all National Centre of Biography websites

Browse Lists:

Cultural Advice

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website contains names, images, and voices of deceased persons.

In addition, some articles contain terms or views that were acceptable within mainstream Australian culture in the period in which they were written, but may no longer be considered appropriate.

These articles do not necessarily reflect the views of The Australian National University.

Older articles are being reviewed with a view to bringing them into line with contemporary values but the original text will remain available for historical context.

James Robbs (?–1797)

James Robbs, a private in the New South Wales Corps arrived at Sydney in 1791 aboard the Mary Ann as part of the Third Fleet. He was sent to Norfolk Island on the Kitty in 1793 and left the island on the Francis in March 1794. He had been charged with sexually assaulting Catherine Riley, aged about 7 years. As the charge was a capital one and could not be held on the island all involved were sent to Port Jackson for his trial. David Collins, the Judge Advocate at Sydney, found that there was insufficient evidence for a conviction.

Robbs died at Sydney on 16 March 1797.

Related Entries in NCB Sites

Citation details

'Robbs, James (?–1797)', People Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://peopleaustralia.anu.edu.au/biography/robbs-james-30651/text37983, accessed 4 December 2024.

© Copyright People Australia, 2012

Life Summary [details]

Death

16 March, 1797
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Cause of Death

unknown

Passenger Ship
Occupation or Descriptor
Military Service
Key Events
Social Issues