Batman, John, 1800-1839

Epithet: Founder of Colony of Victoria, Australia

British Library Archives and Manuscripts Catalogue : Person : Description : ark:/81055/vdc_100000000983.0x00026a

Batman was an Australian farmer and businessman who was one of the first settlers of the Melbourne area. He has been known as one of the few settlers who tried to reach agreement on land use with the local Aboriginal people. Batman was born in Sydney. He spent time in Tasmania (then called Van Diemen's Land) where he began farming, initially on granted land, but his holdings gradually expanded through purchases. During this time, he was involved in conflicts with the Tasmanian Aborigines. In 1828-1830 Batman won a commendation from governer Arthur for the wise caring of the Aborigines. Batman travelled to Geelong in 1835. He signed a treaty with seven aborigines which gave Batman 243,000 hectares in return for axes, blankets, sundry and other articles.

From the description of Papers [manuscript]. 1838-1940. (Libraries Australia). WorldCat record id: 224457853

Pioneer and explorer. Born in 1801 at Rose Hill (now Parramatta). Founded the Port Phillip Association.

From the description of Letter to James Simpson, 1830 Jun. 26 [manuscript]. 1830. (Libraries Australia). WorldCat record id: 225354452

Epithet: of MS Facsimile 64

British Library Archives and Manuscripts Catalogue : Person : Description : ark:/81055/vdc_100000000983.0x00026c

Colonizer.

From the description of John Batman deeds, 1835. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 79452635

Pioneer. Born in 1801 in Rose Hill (now Parramatta). Founded the Port Phillip Association. With James Gumm, William Todd, Alexander Thompson and seven aborigines he left the Launceston in the Rebecca on the 10th May, 1835. Explored the Geelong area and realised the potentialities of the site "for a future village."

From the description of Diaries. 1830-1835. (Libraries Australia). WorldCat record id: 225641765