Measures of Wigston , possible convict history
I am researching the Measures family (on my maternal side) who originate around the Wigston Magna area near Leicester. AS part of the research I have found 2 male Measures who were sentenced to transportation to Australia in 1821, but I do not know if they relate to my Wigston/Measures family. The first is William Measures who was sentenced to 7 years transportation at Leicester quarter sessions on 19/10/1820. I think he was born about 1807. The second is Samuel Measures who was born about 1800 and was sentenced to "life" transportation at Leicester Assizes on 15/8/1821. William served his time and gained his freedom, but nothing known of him after this. However Samuel was convicted of a further murder whilst imprisoned in Australia ( he murdered his guard in order to be hanged to escape his miserable existance) and was hanged in 1827 in Hobart,Tasmania. I am only assuming they were local lads as they had the Measures name ( there were many in the Wigston area) and they were tried at Leicester .They may even be related as they were convicted within a few months of each other , and appear to be the only "Measures" who were transported to Australia as convicts.If anyone has these characters in their family I would love to know further details. Or if anyone wants further details about the convict history of William and Samuel please contact me as I have some. Thank you, Sue Pannell, West Australia
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Re: Measures of Wigston , possible convict history
Janet 10/20/09