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John Squance; circa 1785; Devon

John Squance; circa 1785; Devon

Posted: 3 Apr 2010 11:52AM GMT
Classification: Query
Whilst researching my family tree I've come across the name John Squance. My family member, Thomas Akers, was sent to Australia for highway robbery on the Kings Highway and his victim was John Squance. My ancestor was 27 y.o. at the time and stole 10 shillings. This all took place in 1785.

I'd love to find a bit more about this John Squance if I could. Does this man sound like he could be related to you?

Re: John Squance; circa 1785; Devon

Posted: 4 Apr 2010 12:16AM GMT
Classification: Query
According to my research, John SQUANCE was baptised 11 Nov 1739, at St. Sidwell Church, Exeter. I have the following report:
Assaulted in 1785 and the 2 perpetrators were deported to Australia:
Thomas AKERS
Convicted at the Devon Lent Assizes held at Exeter Castle on Monday, 14 March 1785 before Beaumont Hotham Knt. and Frances Buller Esq, of Felony:

"Thomas Acres and John Smith; For feloniously assaulting John Squance in the King's Highway feloniously putting him in corporal fear and danger of his life in the said highway and feloniously and violently taking from his person and against his will in the said highway 10s his monies.

Guilty; To be hanged."

Royal Mercy extended on condition of transportation, ... for 7 years.


Thomas AKERS spent time on the Dunkirk hulk after his reprieve, until being embarked on 'Charlotte' on 11 March 1787.

The 'Charlotte' sailed with the First Fleet under Captain Arthur Phillip and arrived in Botany Bay on 22 January 1788. On 26 January 1788, the ships had all anchored in Port Jackson at Sydney Cove.
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