Skip to main content
GSSA
The 1820 Settler Correspondence
 as preserved in the National Archives, Kew
 and edited by Sue Mackay

pre 1820 Settler Correspondence before emigration

ALL the 1819 correspondence from CO48/41 through CO48/46 has been transcribed whether or not the writers emigrated to the Cape. Those written by people who did become settlers, as listed in "The Settler Handbook" by M.D. Nash (Chameleon Press 1987), are labelled 1820 Settler and the names of actual settlers in the text appear in red.

JENKINS, John

Written by Sue Mackay on .

National Archives, Kew CO48/44, 148

His Majesty's Ship Nimrod

Leith Road

Dec 23 1819

My Lord,

Not hearing untill of late His Royal Highness the Prince Regent's orders for forming a new colony in Africa is the only reason for my late application.

I have sailed in His Majesty's Royal Navy as Midshipman, Master Mate and Master since the year 1794 & bear testimonies of my good conduct in all rates of ship I have had the honor of serving in, previous to Nimrod was as Master of Anholt Island under the command of Major CAMPBELL of the 11th Royal Veteran Battalion, I flatter myself to his entire satisfaction.

I am enured to hott climates, strong healthy & 41 years of age.

Should there be any situation your Lordship would think me a fit object to fill either military, civil or from settling in the new colony I shall be highly honored in your Lordship's commands.

My only reason for addressing your Lordship on the subject is I have an only child for whom I wish to gain a something in case of my death as I can save butt little from my pay or Half Pay. My widow will be certain of her pension. Praying your Lordship to excuse if I address you improperly.

With due respect I remain

Your Lordship's most obedient and very humble servant

John JENKINS

Master of HMS Nimrod

  • Hits: 6271