Arthur Bowes Smyth

Grass tree, or `A View of the Tree at Botany Bay, wh yields ye Yellow Balsam, & of a Wigwan A604006h

Emu, or `New genus of Bird at Botany bay 1788 A604005h

Representation of a Bird of the Coot kind, found at Lord Howe Island A604008h

The Bread Fruit A604011h

[[File: Arthur Bowes Smyth (1750 – 31 March 1790) was a British surgeon and diarist known for his detailed journal documenting his experiences on the First Fleet, which established the first European colony in Australia in 1788. His writings provide valuable insights into the journey, the early days of the colony, and the natural history of Australia.

Early Life

Little is known about the early life of Arthur Bowes Smyth. He was born in 1750, presumably in England. Details regarding his education and medical training are scarce, but by the late 1780s, he had become a qualified surgeon.

Journey with the First Fleet

In 1787, Arthur Bowes Smyth was appointed as the surgeon aboard the Lady Penrhyn, one of the ships of the First Fleet. The fleet, consisting of 11 ships, was tasked with transporting convicts, marines, and officers to Australia to establish a penal colony. Smyth's journal begins on 22 March 1787, when he departed from England, and ends on 12 August 1789, documenting his return journey.

Throughout his diary, Smyth provides detailed observations of daily life on the ship, interactions with convicts, the health challenges faced during the voyage, and the natural environment encountered. His accounts of the flora and fauna in Australia are among the earliest European records, offering significant contributions to the field of natural history.

Contributions to Natural History

Smyth's interest in natural history is evident in his meticulous descriptions of Australian wildlife, including birds, plants, and marine life. His observations were not limited to Australia; he also recorded details of the natural environment in other locations visited during the voyage, such as Rio de Janeiro and the Cape of Good Hope. These contributions were valuable to European scientists and naturalists, who had little previous knowledge of these regions' biodiversity.

Later Life and Legacy

After returning to England in 1789, Arthur Bowes Smyth continued his work as a surgeon. He passed away on 31 March 1790, shortly after his return. While Smyth's life after the First Fleet is not well-documented, his journal has left a lasting legacy, providing a unique and personal perspective on a pivotal moment in Australian history.

His diary was later published, allowing historians, naturalists, and the general public to gain insights into the early European exploration of Australia and the natural world of the late 18th century. Smyth's work remains a valuable resource for understanding the challenges and experiences of the First Fleet and the early days of the Australian colony.

See Also

• First Fleet
• Natural history of Australia
• History of Australia (1788–1850)