The First Fleet
Cheapside London Greater London
Transferring prisoners from a hulk in the Thames
Name
The First Fleet
Connection
The first European settlers in Australia.
Location
St Mary-le-Bow Church, Cheapside, London EC2V 6AU
How to get there
Nearest underground stations: St Pauls (Central Line) and Bank (Northern Line)
Story
The First Fleet departed from Portsmouth, England, on 13 May 1787 to establish a penal colony that was to become the first European settlement in Australia. The Fleet consisted of 11 vessels – two Royal Navy ships, three store ships and six convict transports carrying around 1400 people, 780 of whom were convicts. This was one of the most ambitious seafaring journeys of all time – under the command of Commodore (later Admiral) Arthur Phillip. The ships arrived at Botany Bay between 18 – 20 January 1788. A vast quantity of stores was carried by the fleet – including building materials, food and livestock and even the first piano.
Rowlandson – scene from Portsmouth 1814 – [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
The newly created United States had closed its doors to the transportation of convicts, following the American War of Independence in 1783. A new destination was required and Botany Bay, claimed by Cook for Britain in 1770, was identified as suitable. On 6 December 1785 Orders in Council were issued in London for the establishment of a penal colony in New South Wales.
What can be found in London with a connection to the First Fleet? Little evidence remains of the ships, crew and passengers, marines, convicts and cargo.
Our story starts at St Mary-le-Bow church where you’ll find a bust to Arthur Phillip, who was born in the parish. Through this connection, the Rector of St Mary-le-Bow is the Chaplain of the Britain-Australia Society. An annual commemorative service is held for Admiral Arthur Phillip at the church. The sound of the bells of St Mary's are recognised as having persuaded Dick Whittington to turn back from Highgate and remain in London to become Lord Mayor. St Mary-le-Bow church is the official Australian church in London. As well as the bust of Phillip, you’ll find a flag of the Order of Australia and a plaque commemorating the 5488 aircrew of the RAAF who failed to return from operations over Europe between 1939-45.
The bust of Arthur Phillip