During the 19th century more than a million people, many of whom had never ventured beyond their homes in Britain, sailed to the new colonies of Australia. On their months-long voyage the emigrants lived in a state of limbo - isolated, belonging neither to the old world nor to the new, and living in fear of icebergs, fever and storms.
Drawing upon a wealth of contemporary records, the author evokes their experiences: the physical dangers, stress, boredom and personalities of travellers on their way to a new life.
Contents:
Preface
Part 1: The Voyage and the People
1. The Perils
2. The Route
3. The Ships
4. Life at Home
5. Decision and Preparation
6. Departure
7. Accommodation
8. The Crew
9. Surgeon and Health
10. Messing and Dining
11. Pastimes and Consolations
12. The New Shore
Part 2: The Diaries
Diary of John Fenwick, 1854
Diary of Fanny Davis, 1858
Diary of Dr H.M. Lightoller, 1878
Notes
Bibliography
Acknowledgements
Index
Review:Charlwood has sifted though records, letters, copious illustrations and more than 100 immigrants' shipboard diaries to bring that experience to vivid, salty and fascinating life. - The Age
'The impact of the voyage has long been a part of the Australian psyche, and one that has never been fully examined. - The Australian
