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Edward Russell (?–1826)

Edward Russell was probably the Edward Russell sentenced to life transportation for burglary. He arrived at Hobart, Van Diemen's Land (Tasmania), in September 1825 aboard the Medina.

In December 1825 Russell escaped from the Launceston Watch House with Thomas Jefferies, John Perry and James Hopkins. The men formed a gang, with Jefferies killing seven people, including an infant, in their few months on the run. During a period when they were short of food, they apparently cast lots to decide who would die and be eaten by the others. Russell lost. He didn't believe they would carry out their plan but, according to Jefferies confession when he was caught, he shot Russell in the head that night, and they 'lived on his flesh for four days'.

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Citation details

'Russell, Edward (?–1826)', People Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://peopleaustralia.anu.edu.au/biography/russell-edward-31478/text38933, accessed 30 March 2024.

© Copyright People Australia, 2012

Life Summary [details]

Death

January, 1826
Tasmania, Australia

Cause of Death

shot

Passenger Ship
Occupation
Social Issues
Convict Record

Crime: theft
Sentence: life
Court: unknown