30 June 1849 The Maid of Erin has been taken up to supply coal at Port Otago for the next 6 months.

6 Oct 1849 The New Zealand Spectator reports that the Acheron assisted refloating the Inconstant of Adelaide, on Wednesday last, after she'd missed stays and gone ashore on Pencarrow Head, where she remained for several hours.

1 Nov 1849 Arrives at Sydney, from Auckland (23^rd), and Bay of Islands (25^th ultimo).

17 Nov 1849 In Farm Cove, Sydney, refitting.

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5 Jan 1850 Still at Farm Cove, Sydney, refitting.

14 Jan 1850 Arrived Auckland

2 Feb 1850 Seen at Wellington.

25 Sep 1850 Loss Of The Master's Mate And Three Of The Crew Of The Acheron.- A most lamentable accident occurred to one of the boats of the Acheron, early on Wednesday. Sept. 25, by which one of the officers and three of the crew lost their lives. On Saturday last, a party was despatched from the steamer, then engaged in surveying the neighbourhood of Massacre Bay, to survey the harbour of West Wanganui. This party, which consisted of Mr. Burnett, master's-mate, Mr. Paget, mate, John Waters, Henry Beale. John Bateman, John Jeffries. and John Horner, able seamen, and George Newton, a half-caste boy. pulled ashore in one of the steamers boats, and proceeded overland to Wanganui. On Tuesday, by which time it was expected they would have returned to the vessel, a boat was sent ashore in Massacre Bay to see after them, but they had not then come back. On Wednesday, another party was despatched from the Acheron, to go in search of them with provisions, as Captain Stokes was apprehensive the missing men might be suffering from want of food, as the time had expired for which they were provisioned on starting.

On reaching the shore, it was found that the party had returned to their boat, which they had left in a tide creek, on Tuesday evening, and that in endeavouring to reach the vessel between twelve and one o'clock (it was blowing at the time a heavy gale from the eastward), the boat had been swamped in the breakers in going over the flats when about three-quarters of a mile from the shore. All hands had, it appeared, after being washed out. regained the boat, which a second sea righted, but on being struck again, the whole crew were carried towards the shore by the waves, which they all reached senseless, but in Mr. Burnett, Waters, Beale, and Newton, life was extinct. The bodies were brought to Nelson for interment, and were buried this afternoon. the coffins were placed on a. gun. carriage, which was drawn to the graves by some of the late shipmates of the deceased men, and the bodies were followed by the officers, the remaining sailors, and most of the respectable inhabitants of the town.-Nelson Examiner, September 28.

20 Nov 1850 Reported to be at Wellington

27 Nov 1850 Sails for Middle Island.

8 Dec 1850 At Akaroa. Sailed for Otago in the evening.

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25 Mar 1851 Arrived Wellington from the west coast of Middle Island.

14 Apr 1851 Sailed from Wellington for Port Underwood

14 Jun 1851 It is reported that the Admiralty have decided to refit the Acheron at Sydney, rather than for her to take passage to England. She will be paid-off at Sydney and men wanting to return to England may do so on the Fly or Havannah which are understood to be returning shortly. Stores and equipment will be sent out by men-of-war. United Service Gazette.

20 Jun 1851 Reported to be at Newcastle.

28 Jun 1851 Sailed for the purpose of surveying the coast, as far south as Cape Howe, She has visited Twofold Bay, Jervis Bay and Port Aitken.

9 Aug 1851 Refitting in Farm Cove.

23 Aug 1851 To be commissioned under the command of Lieutenant Lambert of HMS Calliope, with a small crew she will be kept available and coaled for emergencies

20 Sep 1851 Sailed for Newcastle.

13 Dec 1851 The United Services Gazette reports that the officers and crew of the Acheron have arrived at Devonport on board the Havannah and were paid-off on Wednesday.

Late 1851 It is reported that 2nd Master Joseph W Smith - formerly of HMS Acheron was promoted by the Board to Master, as a result of passing an excellent exam.

26 Jun 1852 Lieutenant Fitzgerald. in command. Having coaled has departed Sydney on a coasting voyage, to seek out survivors of the schooner Favorite, thought to have gone ashore on Ninety Mile Beach,

28 Jun 1852 Arrived Twofold Bay, having lost her stern boat and davits, and split some of her sails, and damaged a boiler, in a heavy gale.

In landing in the surf at Eden, a Whale boat owned by Mr. Challis, fell on the leg of Boy 1^st Class William Rowe Parry, breaking it.

7 Jul 1852 Returned to Sydney with passengers, including Mr Dobson, but without finding the object of the cruise, but reporting that the heavy surf along the coast could well have broken up any vessel which might have gone ashore on this coast.

11 Nov 1852 Evening. Mr Noel, mate of the Acheron, with one seaman by the name of Basbridge, went out into Sydney harbour in a sailing boat. However, on nearing the Heads a squall capsized the boat and despite the best efforts of the brig "Thomas and Henry" and an accompanying sailing boat manned by Mr. King, their aid came too late to save Mr. Noel who drowned. Seaman Basbridge was saved.

3 Feb 1853 3 pm to Goat Island to embark 54 Europeans and 6 Chinamen, prisoners, to work at the Breakwater at Newcastle.

14 Feb 1853 Arrived Sydney from Newcastle, which she's left earlier that day.

19 Jul 1853 Is reported to have gone to the assistance of the barque "Tory,", wrecked on Long Beach, 18 miles from Newcastle, where she arrived the following afternoon. Over the next day or so she rescued some of the crew and passengers and took them, with some luggage to Newcastle and Port Stephens.

24 Jul 1853 Arrived Sydney from Port Stephens, which she left on 23rd inst.

26 Jul 1853 Torch alongside Acheron for coal.

11 Oct 1853 Assisted, with men of the Fantome in getting the "Walter Hood" afloat after she'd gone ashore close to Bradley's Head.

30 Oct 1853 With men from the Fantome attended wreck of the "Exchange," off Camp Cove, to give assistance and help in recovering stores, merchandise and fittings etc.

5 Dec 1853 Went out of Sydney harbour Wednesday to tow in a reported wreck, which turned out to be the debris from a ship which would appear to have recently broken up in a storm. No name found.

26 Dec 1853 Took the "Harmony", receiving ship, down to the quarantine station on Monday. A seaman's leg was broken by one of the hawsers being carried away. He was transferred to the Calliope.

27 Jan 1854 Sailed from Sydney for Newcastle

11 Sep 1854 Acheron proceeded down the harbour on a trial trip on Thurs afternoon, when her engines were pronounced in first rate order and everything proved satisfactory. She had a thorough overhaul at Cockatoo Island, under the superintendence of Mr Thomas and is now fitted up with seven paddle-wheel gun boats, viz: - 2 with 12 pound field-pieces ; 4 with 32 pound field-pieces ; and one with a light 12 pound field-piece. Her boilers and have been repaired and now give her a velocity of about 10 mph. Her officers are to be taken from HMS Calliope, and she is to be manned by volunteers, with about 10 experienced seamen to teach them their duty. We understand she is to be stationed at the Heads.

30 Apr 1855 HMS Acheron was put up at auction on Monday, by Messrs Bowden and Threlkeld, and ultimately knocked down to Messrs GA Lloyd and Co. for the sum of £2,150.

FNS Alceste, frigate,

12 Aug 1854 Sailed from Valparaiso? for the west coast of America

18th Mar 1855 Sailed from Callao for Petropalowsky.

2 Feb 1850 Is expected Sydney daily, having been ordered to return to England, via Sydney, Auckland and the Falkland Islands. She was at Labuan last August.

9 Feb 1850 It is now reported that the Albatross will probably sail direct for England.

FN Corvette Alcmene,

12 July 1851 Sydney. Following a refit at Hobart Town and en route for Hokianga, New Zealand, it is reported from New Zealand that the vessel has gone ashore at Ripiro, near Monganui, between Kaipare and Hokianga Heads. The crew were looked after by the natives until they could be transported to Auckland in HMS Fly, which went to the scene of the disaster to secure any stores etc.

30 Aug 1851 Wednesday morning crew muster and march through Auckland to the harbour to board the Alexander, which will transport them to Tahiti.

Early Oct 1850 At Hong Kong. Captain Trowbridge died.

31 Jul 1852 It is reported in a copy of the Straits Times, received at Sydney, that the Amazon had left Singapore for Trincomalee, the Cape and Europe.

19 Jun 1852 At Sydney it is reported by a visiting ship that this vessel was at Honolulu

18 Dec 1854 It is reported that this vessel arrived on the morning of the 12th Oct per Polynesian of Oct 14, having sailed from San Fransico on 2 Sep and have been cruising for the past 6 weeks, but have seen no Russians. They have been in at Monterey, and again returned to SF, whence they sailed the second time and arrived here nearly direct

Anonyma, schooner.

Officers visit clipper "Lightning" with a view to taking off pensioners and volunteers for service in the RN [Ed. Note Crimea War - shortage of hands]. It may be of interest to note that the Fantome had to fire warning guns for the "Lightning" when she left harbour, as the master had failed to pay-off the 6 members of the crew who had volunteered for service in the RN

4 Jul 1853 Portsmouth. Carried out speed trials.

28 Jan 1850 Departed Callao in company with the Gorgon for Payta.

20 Apr 1850 The Polynesian reports the arrival of this vessel on the 18^th inst. from Callao and is said to be leaving shortly for the Sandwich Islands.

FNS Bayonnaise, 32

16 Aug 1850 Seen by the Deborah at anchor at Papeite, said to be from China bound for France.

25 Apr 55 HM Ships Sybille, Hornet, and Bittern, under Commodore Hon Charles Elliot, lat 37 ° 17 ' 23 " N, long 1331 ° 54 ' 23 " E - island discovered in the Sea of Japan, about a mile in extent, running in a NW by W and SE by E direction and are formed together by a reef of rocks. We could discern no dangers lying off them and the waters appears to be deep close to the shore. They are barren, without exception of a few patches of grass on their sides and landing would be difficult except in very calm weather. The height of the NW island was ascertained to be 410 ft above sea level - Charles C Forsyth, Cdr HMS Hornet

25 May 1849 Sailed from Moreton Bay

1 Sep 1849 The brig Sir John Byng has been chartered by the Government to proceed to Cape York with stores for the Rattlesnake and Bramble and Port Essington, sailing on the 5^th inst.

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2 Mar 1850 Arrived Sydney from a Surveying Cruise.

4 May 1850 Reported to be laid up in Farm Cove.

28 May 1850 Vessel the Lady Howden, Captain Chalk, from California to Sydney, is reported to have gone ashore at 3 am on a coral reef off the Fijis. The Bramble is thought to be at an adjacent island, en route for the Navigators, and may collect the crew, all of whom are alive.

10 Jun 1850 Arrived at Nukulaw, Feejee Isles, and landed 8 of the natives she took from Sydney. She then went on to visit Bews, Venua Letu, Ovalu, and La Rembe : all was quiet. On passage from Venua Letu to Ovalu she picked up the master and 2^nd mate of the Lady Howden which was wrecked at Ongia Reef, Feejee Islands 22 May. The remainder of the crew came on board at Ovalu and La Rembe.

24 Jul 1850 Arrived Upolo, Navigator's Islands.

19 Aug 1850 Arrives Sydney, from a cruise, with the Captain and crew of the brig, Lady Howden, and Mr Hibbs.

24 Aug 1850 Lieutenant Pollard, formerly of the Havannah now in command.

30 Nov 1850 In refit at Farm Cove.

The ship is under orders to proceed on a three month cruise among the South Sea Islands. Her destination is the Isabella's Island, Solomon's Group.

9 Aug 1851 Refitting at Farm Cove

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22 Mar 1851 Sailed from Wellington for Port Victoria.

9 Apr 1851 Sailed from Wellington for Nelson.

23 Aug 1851 To be commissioned as a tender to HMS Calliope under the command of Lieutenant Ward of that ship.

21 Sep 1851 Sailed for Lady Elliott's Island

20 Dec 1851 Arrived at Auckland.

1 Jan 1852 Reported by the Moa to be at Auckland.

Jan 1852 Reports that gold has really been discovered at Whyeki, an island about 25 miles from Auckland.

30 Apr 1852 Departed Hobart Town for Wellington.

31 May 1852 Arrived Auckland from Wellington.

7 Jun 1852 Left Auckland.

27 Jun 1852 Arrived Sydney.

Oct 1853 ? at the Dardanelles 970 men, Vice-Admiral J. W. D. Dundas. Captain T. W. Carter, with rest of Mediterranean Fleet. See page 41 (1854).

6 Jan 1848 Arrived Plymouth and to be paid off next Tuesday. Captain Stanley has received a letter from the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, expressive of the approbation of the gallant services of the officers and ship's company in New Zealand, which was read on the Quarter-deck on Wednesday last.

5 Apr 1851 Sydney. It is reported that the Calliope has been commissioned by Captain Sir E. Home, with a view to the vessel replacing the Havannah, which has been ordered home.

8 Feb 1851 Sydney. It is reported in the United Service Gazette that a serious accident occurred onboard at Devonport:

The Calliope was being taken out of harbour into the Sound, in charge of Mr. Mills, Assistant Master Attendant, and in tow of the Avon steam vessel. She was starting all well, when it appears that the capstan not being properly attended to, the ship gained way on the men working at it, and on their walking back to give each hawser an equal strain, the capstan "ran away," carrying everyone before it ; and the bars not being secured by swifters or pins, they flew about in all directions, knocking down everyone near them. The captain, Sir Everard Home ; one of the Assistant Surgeons, Mr Newland Nettleton ; a quartermaster ; Jenkins, AB ; and Oxford a marine ; and James Dominey, a seaman ; were so seriously injured it was found necessary to send them to the Royal Naval Hospital, where they were placed under the skilful charge of Dr. Rae and other medical officers of that excellent establishment. The Captain received severe wounds in the head and leg, and is going on favourably, and will probably be removed to the Calliope on Monday. Mr Nettleton, Surgeon's Assistant, was a severe case, and amputation below the knee was performed in the afternoon. His present condition is favourable. Knowland, Quartermaster, received a fracture of the cranium, and was struck in the abdomen. He never spoke afterwards, and died on Thursday morning. Oxford, Marine, had a contused face, and is recovering. Jenkins had a contused leg, and James Dominey a contused thigh, and are doing well.

14 Feb 1851 Vessel inspected by Admiral Gage.

14 Jul 1851 Departed Hobart Town.

16 Jul 1851 Struck by lightning, which sounded as if a gun had been fired, but the conductors fitted meant that little damage was caused, except to the conductors themselves, although a strong smell of burning was evident. Bells Messenger.

20 Jul 1851 Arrived Sydney

16 Aug 1851 Two deserters from the crew caught attempting to go to the gold fields, make an appearance at the Police Court Sydney.

24 Nov 1851 Departed Sydney for New Zealand.

5 Dec 1851 Arrived Bay of Islands.

17 Dec 1851 Left for Auckland

20 Dec 1851 Arrived at Auckland.

1 Jan 1852 Reported by the Moa to be at Auckland.

7 Jan 1852 Sailed for Whyeki, an island about 25 miles from Auckland, with the Lt Gov. on board, possibly in relation to discovery of gold, which had been confirmed by HMS Bramble ?

8 Jan 1852 Arrived Whyeki

13 Jan 1852 Sailed for Manganui.

15 Jan 1852 Arrived Manganui.

17 Jan 1852 Sailed for Wellington

21 Jan 1852 Arrived Wellington

27 Jan 1852 Sailed for Mana.

28 Jan 1852 Arrived Mana.

29 Jan 1852 Sailed for Rapiti arriving Rapiti the same day.

1 Feb 1851 Sailed for Nelson

3 Feb 1852 Arrived Nelson.

10 Feb 1852 Sailed for Queen Charlotte's Sound.

13 Feb 1852 Arrived for Queen Charlotte's Sound.

24 Feb 1852 Sailed for Port Cooper.

28 Feb 1852 Arrived Port Cooper.

9 Mar 1852 Sailed for Akaroa.

12 Mar 1852 Arrived Akaroa.

17 Mar 1852 Sailed for Auckland.

28 Mar 1852 Arrived Auckland, Bay of Isles.

31 Mar 1852 Sailed for Port Arthur.

12 Apr 1852 Arrived Port Arthur.

15 Apr 1852 Sailed for Hobart Town.

17 Apr 1852 Arrived at Hobart Town from Port Arthur.

4 May 1852 Sailed for Melbourne

13 May 1852 Arrived at Melbourne from Hobart Town.

16 May 1852 Sailed for Geelong

18 May 1852 Arrived Geelong

23 May 1852 Departed from Port Phillip

28 May Calliope, 26, Captain Sir J. Everard Home, arrived Sydney - 1 passenger Lt Napper, 11th Regt.

22 Jul 1852 Departs Sydney on a cruise.

27 Jul 1852 Arrived Norfolk Island

30 Jul 1852 Left Norfolk Island to continue cruise.

15 Aug 1852 Left Tongataboo for the Navigators, supposedly to select an island for convicts.

19 Dec 1852 Arrives Sydney from a cruise, with passengers: Captain Prout, 2 prisoners and 4 seamen.

16 Mar 1853 Sailed on a cruise. First stop Melbourne

30 Mar 1853 Arrived Melbourne. Anchored in Hobson's Bay Wed. evening.

24 Apr - 7 May King George's Sound

14 May 1853 Arrived Hobart Town

5 Jul 1853 Arrived Wellington from Hobart Town, via Port Arthur and Nelson.

19 Jul 1853 Sailed for Auckland

28 Jul 1853 Arrived Auckland from Wellington, having encountered gales for upwards of a week. Whilst at Auckland the barque "Galatea" drove from her anchors and got foul of the Calliope, causing much damage.

29 Oct 1853 Arrives Sydney from Auckland via Whyheki and Coromandel, but no diggers were at work at the former and Kawau, which she left on 17^th inst. and met more bad weather which caused further damage.

7 Nov 1853 Captain Sir J. Everard Home died onboard on Tuesday evening at 2130.

26 Dec 1853 A seaman from the Acheron was taken onboard with a broken leg last Monday.

4 Mar 1854 Departed Sydney for a cruise.

11 Mar 1854 It was expected she would proceed to Port Curtis about 11th inst. with his Excellency the Gov.-Gen., returning Sydney first week of May.

1 Apr 1854 Some officers from the Calliope are surveying the banks of the northern entrance of Moreton Bay with a view to finding suitable permanent moorings for a lightship. Ship has gone into the mouth of the river for wood and water.

Apr 1854 Departure from Moreton Bay reported - going to Port Curtis with the Gov.-Gen. on 18th inst.

10 May 1854 Arrives Sydney from Fort Curtis (20 Apr), and Howe's Island (4 May). Passengers - the Gov.-Gen and suite.

28 Jun 1854 Departs Sydney on a cruise

30 Jun 1854 Returns to Sydney from a cruise

5 Jul 1854 Departs Sydney on a cruise, including a call at Botany, where great guns were exercised.

10 July 1854 Returns to Sydney from a cruise

9 Sep 1854 Leaves Sydney on a cruise

11 Sep 1854 To provide officers for HMS Acheron, which is now fully manned, rather than on a part time basis as previously.

16 Sep 1854 Capt Fitzgerald, arrives Sydney, from a cruise.

23 Sep 1854 Departs Sydney on a cruise.

25 Sep 1854 Capt Fitzgerald, returns to Sydney from a cruise

29 Nov 1854 Sails from Sydney, on a cruise

10 Dec 1854 Arrives Sydney from Port Stephens which she left on the 8 Dec

7 Feb 1855 Departs for England via Melbourne.

13 Feb 1855 Arrives Melbourne from Sydney

27 Feb 1855 Leaves Melbourne, for Plymouth, UK

Calliope, bound from Sydney to London, was sited lat. 28 ° 58 ' - long. 33 ° 32 ' by the Grand Trianon and Officers boarded to view latest [UK] papers.

9th June 1855 Arrived at Plymouth.

9 Mar 1848 A letter from Captain Worth reports that the ship arrived at Pitcairn Islands from Callao. Bad weather delayed landing by 24 hours, when the captain went ashore with half the officers and youngsters, bringing presents from the inhabitants of Valparaiso. There being no anchorage the ship was standing off and on. The number of inhabitants is 140 and all appear happy and healthy. 100 lbs. of powder, ensign and union jack, casks of salt beef and pork, agricultural implements, clothes and books etc. were landed before departure

11 Mar 1848 Sailed for Tahiti

Feb 1850 Employed on the Pacific Coast of Central America.

Jun 1852 At Hong Kong at the time of the Queen's Birthday, when the usual salutes were fired.

31 Jul 1852 It is reported in a copy of the Straits Times, received at Sydney that, with the Semiramis, this vessel is about to leave for Labuan to join the Pluto and from thence proceed to the coast of Borneo, to discover what has happened to the Dolphin.

4 Jul 1853 Portsmouth. Carried out trials on the Boomerang propeller.

Jun / Jul 1852 Damaged when being towed by the Sphinx and being repaired at Hong Kong

29 Oct 1850 Is reported by the Alpha, barque, 357 tons, bound for Sydney, Australia, (11 Jan 1851), to be at Bahia and is said to be recruiting, having recently returned from a cruize off the Brazilian coast, where she has been successful in capturing several slave vessels.

25 Jan 1851 It is reported in Sydney that the a prize crew from the Cormorant, Commander H Schomberg, has recently discovered a cache of some 5,000 to 6,000 dollars hidden in a farina cask, when the vessel was taken to St. Helena to be condemned as a slave vessel.

18 Jul 1850 Captain G. G. Wellesley. Arrived Sancelito, where she is to be stationed, from Callao

1 Oct 1851 Arrived from Port Clarence, Behring's Straits and anchored at Sancelito.

8 Dec 1851 The newspaper, The Polynesian of 13 Dec reports that the Daedalus sailed for Valparaiso, and would be touching at Tahiti and Pitcairn Islands, taking to the latter many useful contributions, including books etc.

17 Nov 1849 Circa September, the vessel was reported to be at Upolu, with the missionary barque John Williams.

Early Feb 1850 Expected at Callao from Valparaiso.

Jun 1851 Expected Saucalito shortly.

Russian frigate Diana

28 May 1854 Sailed form Honolulu bound to the northward.

17 Jun 1854 Capt Lessoffsky, returned to this port (Callao) on the 10th ins. having been cruising in the vicinity of the islands for the past fortnight, instead of proceeding to Sitka, as was anticipated. We hear it rumoured that she was awaiting the arrival of the Aurora, another Russian frigate, daily expected, and again that she was holding on for the receipt of the intelligence of the actual declaration of war by England and France.

23 Jan 1849 Arrived Portsmouth. 81 days from New Zealand, being the quickest passage on record.

May/June 1852 Reported to be lying at Tahiti.

30 Nov 1855 News received at Sydney that the Juno and Dido are reported to be at Opolu, the former was about to proceed to Vavou, and the latter to Tahiti.

Feb 1850 Deployed to Vancouver Island and San Francisco.

Apr/May 1850 Anchored off South Saucalito and expected to sail for Callao circa 1 May 1850.

25 Apr 1851 Anchored at Saucalito, having visited several ports.

FNS Duroc

26 Feb 1855 Arrived Sydney. Capt. De L'Vaisiere de Lavergue. From New Caledonia (17 Feb), Newcastle (24th inst.).Brings with her crew of the London Packet. She also reports having placed and officer and 10 seamen on the barque Selms, of Sydney to take her on to Tahiti, following a mutiny.

Electra, 14

27 Dec 1852 It is reported in Sydney that the vessel is being fitted for the Australian Station

22 Oct 1852 Departed Portsmouth

31 January 1853 Departed Cape of Good Hope.

19 Mar 1853 Arrived Sydney.

16 Apr 1853 Sails for Melbourne.

Mid Jan 1854 Marines of the Electra put onboard the "Wanata," whose crew was in a state of mutiny and threatening the captain's life.

Jul 1854 At Geelong - exercised her great guns

15 Sep 1854 Capt Morris, arrives Sydney from Melbourne, which she left on 8th inst.

23 Sep 1854 Departs Sydney on a cruise.

23 Oct 1854 It is reported that the Senior mate, Mr Henry Davies, has been promoted Lieutenant

13 Nov 1854 It is reported that the Electra has recovered 4 boxes of specie from King's Island, late of the "Brahmin" or "Waterwitch," which have recently gone ashore on King's Island.

30 May 1855 Leaves Port Phillip Heads, Melbourne on a Cruise. Searching for short handed Portuguese vessel Tremelga in the Bass Straits.

1 Jun 1855 Spoke with Captain Adam of the "Thomas Ann Cole," about 12 miles SW of Rodondo, cruising in search of the Portuguese barque Tremelga - MM Herald 3 Jun

26 July 1855 Sailed early yesterday morning from Melbourne, for King's Island, in search of the crew of the schooner Elizabeth, lately wrecked there - MM Herald of 26 July

Sep 1855 Electra about to leave for Sydney for duty and that her place here (Melbourne) will be filled by HMS Fantome, now lying at Port Jackson

13 Oct 1855 Departed Melbourne for Auckland.

24 Oct 1855 Arrived Auckland from Melbourne

19 Nov 1855 Reported that arrived Sydney on Wed. last from Melbourne, from which port she sailed on the 13th inst. We understand that she was despatched from Melbourne on receipt of tidings respecting the lawless state of the Chatham Islands and has called at this port for instructions from his Excellency Col. Browne.

3 Dec 1855 Reported to have arrived from Auckland on Tues, having left that port on the 12 ultimo.. On the 20th ultimo the Electra was struck by a whirlwind which threw her on her beam ends. Ono of the boats was much damaged and the iron davits bent.

Electronic Telegraph reports brig "Ruby" observed to have gone aground off the Heads. The Empire was immediately despatched to her assistance by whose aid she was got safely off.

25 Jun 1850 Arrived Honolulu

30 Jun 1850 Sails for the North in search of Sir John Franklin's missing expedition.

17 April 1855 Capt Collinson, CB, to be paid off at Woolwich - possibility of courts martial - ship shut up in ice for 3 years and away for 5 years - Morning Chronicle - 17 April

28 May 1855 It is reported at Sydney, NSW that Exmouth and Esk have been ordered to afford assistance to homeward-bound trade in the chops of the Channel ; the former from Devonport and the latter from Portsmouth

H Swedish MS Eugénie, 40

31 Oct 1852 Departs Sydney for China

1 Apr 1853 Arrived Cape of Good Hope from Batavia.

8 June 1853 Capt Virgin arrived Plymouth - see page 265 for RoP.

28 May 1855 It is reported at Sydney, NSW that Exmouth and Esk have been ordered to afford assistance to homeward-bound trade in the chops of the Channel ; the former from Devonport and the latter from Portsmouth

Fantome, 12

12 Apr 1851 Commissioned by Commander J. K. Gennys to replace the Fly on the New Zealand Station. En route for N.Z. she will carry the mail to the West Coast of Africa for the Squadron based there.

2 Mar 1851 Sailed from Plymouth, calling at Madeira, Rio Janeiro, Cape of Good Hope

19 Jul 1851 Departed Hobart Town.

25 Jul 1851 Arrived Sydney for refit.

16 Aug 1851 Sailed for Auckland

22 Dec 1851 Arrived Hobart Town.

30 Apr 1852 Departed Hobart Town for the Auckland Islands.

3 Sep 1852 It is reported that the Fantome remained at the Heads, on account of the possible desertions of crew to the gold fields. She has recently been employed cruising the islands of the straits, in order to render assistance to the vessel "City of Melbourne", which has been wrecked on King's Island, but without avail. Argus. 3 Sept.

12 Sep 1852 Departed Port Phillip.

17 Sept 1852 Arrived Sydney from a cruise.

16 Oct 1852 Deserters John Barker, Uriah Marshall, and Edward Tregoning apprehended aboard the brig Esther Arthur appear in front of the Water Police Magistrates. The sailors offered no defence and were ordered to be placed aboard the Fantome. The master of the Esther Arthur was acquitted of harbouring the deserters.

2 Nov 1852 Departs Sydney for Wellington.

13 Nov 1852 Having taken the mail ashore to Porirua on the Tuesday last it was discovered that medical advice was required by one of the settlers. Thursday morning, still lying off the Island of Mana the captain, with the ship's surgeon, with a crew of 8 pulled for shore in a ship's boat, but on coming close to shore the surf upset the boat and all hands were thrown into the sea, at which time the surgeon and 4 men were drowned. Surviving members of the crew of the boat were badly bruised through being dashed against the rocks in the heavy surf. No bodies have been recovered to date. New Zealand Spectator.

13 Nov 1852 Captain Tinley of the William Alfred reports that 2 more seamen of the Fantome have also been drowned since those mentioned above.

The next edition of the New Zealand Spectator reports that the Master of the Fantome decided on the Sunday that since the first boat had failed to return he should go ashore to discover the cause of the delay and render any assistance necessary. Some time after 3 o'clock in the afternoon he went ashore in the whale boat with 4 men and pulled for Porirua harbour. Having crossed the bar safely and 100 yards from shore, the boat was struck by a number of rollers which firstly filled and then upset the boat. Whilst 2 men, including Mr Polkinghorne, the Master, clung to the boat 3 swam for shore, 2 of whom were drowned, the third being rescued by one of the crew of the Captain's boat, who rushed into the surf at the risk of his own life.

One of the settlers, a Mr. Tandy, on being informed of the accident, and at some risk to himself, put out in his own boat, a small dinghy, and rescued the master, by then almost insensible, and the other seaman.

The captain had attempted to avert the disaster by placing men appropriately, but due to the bad weather the crew the cries of the men went unheard. An officer and doctor from the 65^th regiment visited Porirua on the Monday with a view to providing such assistance as may be necessary.

3 Feb 1853 Sailed from Queen Charlotte's Sound for Sydney.

14 Feb 1853 Arrived Sydney from a cruise,

7 Mar 1853 Sailed on a cruise to New Zealand and the Bay of Islands.

22 Mar 1853 arrives Auckland from Sydney

5 Apr 1853 Departs Auckland for Wellington

13 Jun 1853 Arrived Auckland from Wellington.

18 Jul 1853 Arrived ???? from Auckland

17 Aug 1853 Departed Mana.

26 Aug 1853 Cdr Gennys, arrived Sydney with passengers: Capt Murray and Lt Ward. She is about to refit and will not leave for some time.

11 Oct 1853 Acheron, assisted by men of the Fantome got the "Walter Hood" afloat after she'd gone ashore close to Bradley's Head.

11 Oct 1853 Seamen and Marines of this ship assisted R. A. A. Morehead of Spring Street, Sydney, in putting out a fire at his premises, for which a £10 donation was received to be divided amongst those who gave help.

30 Oct 1853 Acheron, with men from the Fantome attended wreck of the "Exchange," off Camp Cove, to give assistance and help in recovering stores, merchandise and fittings etc.

10 Nov 1853 Sailed for Auckland.

6 Dec 1853 The New Zealander reports the ship having sailed for Wellington and the Southern Settlements.

25 Feb 1854 Circa. Sailed for Wellington.

29 Apr 1854 Sailed for Hobart Town.

31 May 1854 Departed Hobart Town.

5 Jun 1854 Cdr Fitzroy, arrived Sydney from Hobart Town - passenger: Lord Arthur Churchill.

10 Jun 1854 Departs Sydney for Melbourne

24 Jul 1854 Assisted "Hilton" put out fire on Saturday night.

3 Aug 1854 Departs Melbourne on a cruise

28 Aug 1854 Fantome fired warning guns for the "Lightning" as the master had failed to pay-off 6 members of the crew who had volunteered for service in the RN. An arrangement was made and the vessel allowed to continue on her voyage. See also Anonyma.

23 Sep 1854 Sails from Melbourne for Adelaide

16 Oct 1854 News has been received that the Fantome will remain in our harbour [Sydney] till an early day in next week, when she will leave for King George's Sound, with about £20,000 in specie for the Commissariat Department in Western Australia.

23 Oct 1854 It is reported that the ship's company exercised gunnery, small arms and cutlass practice and also carried out fire and damage control exercises

11 Nov 1854 Leaves Swan River for the Eastern colonies.

25 Dec 1854 Following an inquiry held on board two pilots have been discharged from the service for negligence following the loss of the "Maria" and "Ontario" which both went ashore at the Heads. Full report on Page 251 (1854).

23 Feb 1855 Leaves Melbourne for Auckland.

19 Mar 1855 Arrives Auckland from Melbourne after a stormy passage. Lieut. Percy Sherwell dies en route. The reason for the visit is to defend against an unknown threat - possibly native uprising - about which the local population live in happy ignorance!

10 Apr 1855 Arrived from Auckland (28^th ultimo.) and Kawau (31^st ultimo.) and made a good run.

28 Apr 1855 Sailed from Sydney for Hobart Town

8 May 1855 Launceston - went on shore early yesterday morning, in a fog, on this side of Half-Moon Bay. One of the officers proceeded to Hobart Town and returned with the Government launch and 2 boat's crews, to get her off, and it was expected that she would arrive in port in the afternoon. We hear that she was on her broadside on the hard sandy beach. Launceston Examiner of 10 May reports that she was got off and was to be put on the patent slip

9 May 1855 Arrives at Hobart Town from Sydney, but see previous report.

25 Jun 1855 Sent to scene of loss of "Catherine Sharer" barque, by explosion, in D'Entrecasteaux's Channel

22 July 1855 Arrived Sydney from Hobart which she left of 17th inst. HMS Fantome has had a good passage of 4 days from Hobart Town. Captain Gennys reports the steamer Tasmania hence, as having arrived on the 17th and would sail again for this port (Sydney) on the 19th inst.

Sep 1855 Electra about to leave for Sydney for duty and that her place here (Melbourne) will be filled by HMS Fantome, now lying at Port Jackson

Following an inspection it was discovered that a major repair was required to replace dry rot - a repair not usually perform away from HM Dockyards - an interesting report - see page 227 (1855)

4 Oct 1855 Departs Sydney, on a cruise

10 Oct 1855 Entered Port Phillip at 6 pm.

11 Oct 1855 Arrived Melbourne from Sydney

12 Nov 1855 It is reported that the Fantome's crew are engaged onboard the troopship Windsor, dismantling her preparatory to fitting the vessel for sea. She will probably be ready for sailing from Melbourne to Hobart Town on the 1st approx., for the purpose of conveying the 99th regiment to England. On Monday morning the main yard fell from the slings and cut the gunwale down to the deck, causing one of the boys working over the side to fall into the water. He was instantly picked up by one of the crew of the Fantome, named Barnes, who jumped overboard and rescued the lad who was uninjured.

HMS Fantome left the Bay (Port Phillip, yesterday on a cruise in search of the dismasted ship. Captain Matthews, Lloyds agent, has gone down in the steamer Black Eagle to endeavour to find the vessel, but he was unable to get through the Heads yesterday.

19 Nov 1855 Reported that now accompanied by the steamer "Marion" in search of dismasted ship near King's Island.

17 Dec 1855 Fired a royal salute yesterday afternoon in honour of the success of the allied forces in the downfall of Sebastopol. The tri-colour was hoisted at the fore and the ensign at the main of the man-of-war

16 Jul 1853 Is reported in Sydney to have taken the crew of the "Lady Rowen", burnt at sea off Cape St Vincent 16 Mar 1853, from Lagos to Lisbon.

Fisgard

1855 Guardship at Woolwich.

10 Mar 1849 Fly sailed from Auckland to Kawau and the Bay of Islands. From thence she is expected to sail for Sydney.<BR>

14 May 1849 Arrived from Port Nicholson, 16 Apr., Nelson, 30 Apr.

26 May 1849 In Farm Cove, Sydney. About to undergo repairs.

9 Jun 1849 The boats of the Fly assisted the Diana in getting off shore at Milsom's Point, Sydney.

1 Jul 1849 Arrives at Auckland from Sydney

Dec 1849 At Port Nicholson.

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2 Feb 1850 Seen at Wellington.

6 Feb 1850 Sailed with the Havannah from Port Nicholson for the Auckland Islands

13 Feb 1850 Arrived Port Ross, Auckland Islands.

23 Feb 1850 Departed Port Ross.

28 Feb 1850 Anchored at Akaroa

4 Mar 1850 Sailed for Port Cooper.

5 Mar 1850 Arrived Port Cooper.

7 Mar 1850 Sailed for Port Underwood.

10 Mar 1850 Arrived Port Underwood.

12 Mar 1850 Arrived Wellington (per Wellington Independent of 13 Mar 1850)

11 Apr 1850 Sailed from Auckland

20 Apr 1850 Arrived Anatam. Fever and ague reported to be prevailing on this island.

24 Apr 1850 Departed Anatam

24 Apr 1850 Arrived Tanna

27 Apr 1850 Departed Tanna

28 Apr 1850 Arrived Erromanga

29 Apr 1850 Sailed Erromanga

5 May 1850 Called at Island of Wea, following the recent reported loss of the schooner Rosetta on that Island.

9 May 1850 Sailed from Island of Wea

10 May 1850 Arrived Balade Harbour, New Caledonia

23 May 1850 Called at Island of Pines

29 May 1850 Departed for Sydney.

28 Jun 1850 Sydney. Anniversary of the Coronation celebrated by dressing overall and at 12 o'clock by firing a royal salute. See next item.

1 Jul 1850 On the afternoon of Friday last one of the seamen, whilst in the act of loading one of the guns for the salute in honour of her Majesty's Coronation, had his right hand completely blown off, to which the attention of the bystanders was called by his exclaiming "Look here" at the same time extending his mutilated limb. The medical officers was fortunately on deck at the time of the accident, immediately rendered his services ; but such was the nature of the injury inflicted that amputation was deemed necessary.; and the promising young man now lies in his cot, and will be comparatively useless for the rest of his life. He is but 23 years of age, and has been 5 years in the service, part of which he served in HMS Calliope, Captain Stanley and the remainder of the Fly. On his arrival in England he will be entitled to a pension of a shilling per diem. Providentially he has a good constitution, and we are happy to be able to state that he is doing well.

6 Nov 1850 Arrived at Wellington.

14 Nov 1850 Sailed for Auckland Islands, with His Excellency the Governor-in-Chief, Lady Grey and suite.

17 Nov 1850 Arrived Otago.

23 Nov 1850 Delayed by bad weather. Sailed for the Auckland Islands

28 Nov 1850 Arrived at the Auckland Islands.

5 Dec 1850 Sailed for Akaroa.

8 Dec 1850 Arrived Akaroa.

21 Dec 1850 Arrived Wellington.

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22 Mar 1851 Is reported to still be at Wellington.

2 Apr 1851 Sailed for Auckland with Governor and suite.

29 Aug 1851 Sailed from Auckland for England.

27 - 30 Sep 1851 Falkland Islands.

17 - 22 Oct 1851 Rio Janeiro

4 Dec 1851 Arrived at Plymouth Sound in the evening.

11 Dec 1851 Arrived at Devonport

13 Dec 1851 Having been mustered and inspected the vessel was towed into harbour and paid off this day. United Service Gazette.

Frolic

25 Jun 1855 It is reported at Sydney to be on cruise in pursuit of strange looking black craft seen by the Abraham off Table Bay, and by others at various places.

Extract of a letter from the Engineer of the Fury. "The P & O Co.'s steamer Pekin, having left Singapore on her way to Galle without the Admiral's despatches, HM Steamer Fury (with only 3 boilers, and working on the 1^st grade of expansion) left at 1230. About 6 am the former was overtaken about 60 miles from Singapore, and the despatches put on board. Speed of the Fury 10.058, of the Pekin 6.898, the Fury gaining per hour 3.162 miles

General Palmer, hired storeship

20 Nov 1850 Lying at Wellington

16 Feb 1850 The Geyser saves survivors of the barque Childe Harold, wrecked on Dassen's Island with the loss of Captain Byres, 12 Feb, and transports them to Cape Town, the Childe Harold having only left that port on about 11 Feb.

28 Jan 1850 Departed Callao in company with the Asia for Payta.

23 Sep 1850 A captured slaver was brought into St. Helena on this date. Shipping Gazette.

5 Oct 1850 Cruising off St. Anne's Islands.

Feb/Mar 1849 The Sarah Louisa reports the Hastings to have gone from Hong Kong to the Bogue, to protect British interests.

26 Mar 1849 Arrived Hobart Town with the Governor on onboard, having experienced bad weather after leaving Port Phillip and sought shelter in Port Arthur.<BR>

26 May 1849 Sailed from Sydney for Auckland and the Navigator's Islands with a Captain Jenner as a passenger.

3 Nov 1849 Tuesday's edition of the Government Gazette reports "The undermentioned articles brought to Sydney by HMS Havannah will be delivered to their original owners on application and proving ownership:

Chain cable ¾ inch - about 50 fathoms ; picked up off Lifu, Loyalty Island, apparently belonging to the bark Sarah or schooner Castlereagh, wrecked there some months since.

Chain ½ inch - about 40 fathoms ; mast hoops for windlass. Demanded at Mare, supposed to have belonged to the cutter Sisters, taken by the natives in 1843.

John E Erskine, Captain.

17 Nov 1849 In Farm Cove, Sydney, refitting.

1 Dec 1849 A large party of armed seamen and marines were landed yesterday, with 3 field pieces, with which the proceeded to the Outer Domain, where they went through a variety of manoeuvres with great dexterity. Captain Erskine has agreed to put on a public display on the next occasion a similar exercise is performed.

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15 Jan 1850 Approx. Departed Sydney.

31 Jan 1850 Arrived Wellington after a passage of 16 days

6 Feb 1850 Sailed with the Fly from Port Nicholson for the Auckland Islands

13 Feb 1850 Arrived Port Ross, Auckland Islands.

23 Feb 1850 Departed Port Ross.

28 Feb 1850 Anchored at Akaroa

4 Mar 1850 Sailed for Port Cooper.

5 Mar 1850 Arrived Port Cooper.

7 Mar 1850 Sailed for Port Underwood.

10 Mar 1850 Arrived Port Underwood.

12 Mar 1850 Arrived Wellington (per Wellington Independent of 13 Mar 1850)

13 Apr 1850 Departed Wellington for Sydney.

26 Apr 1850 Arrived Sydney from Wellington.

16 May 1850 Several invalids sent to the Rattlesnake to return to the UK.

28 Jun 1850 Sydney. Anniversary of the Coronation celebrated by dressing overall and at 12 o'clock by firing a royal salute.

20 Jul 1850 23 Casks of beer arrive in the harbour on board the 479 ton Mary Ann, from London via Adelaide, designated for the officers.

20 July 1850 Arrived Auckland

8 Aug 1850 Sailed from Auckland on a cruise of the New Hebrides.

30 Oct 1850 Sailed from Numea, New Caledonia. Since leaving Sydney in July she had visited Auckland and Wangaroa, N.Z., the Islands of Aneitum, Tana, Eromango, Vate, and Malicolo of the New Hebrides ; Vanikolo or Perouse's Island, San Crystoval, and Malata, of the Solomon's ; and the principal ports of New Caledonia.

8 Nov 1850 Arrived Sydney. A small dinghy ex- cutter Mary, taken by the natives of Balad, in New Caledonia, Sept 1849, has been brought ot Sydney and will be delivered to the former owners on proof of ownership. If not claimed prior to sailing the boat will be sold or otherwise appropriated for Her Majesty's Service.

17 Dec 1850 Departed for Hobart Town with Major General Wynyard and staff for a tour of Van Diemen's Land

25 Dec 1850 Arrived Hobart Town.

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11 Feb 1851 Sailed for New Zealand.

3 Mar 1851 Returned to Hobart Town having sprung her fore and main yards and received other damage.

30 Mar 1851 Arrived Wellington from Port Victoria.

9 Apr 1851 Sailed from Wellington for Nelson.

7 Jun 1851 Arrived Sydney

14 Jun 1851 In view of the present difficulty in obtaining seamen Captain Erskine has allowed some of his men to volunteer to join ships that are proceeding direct to England.

Jun 1851 The Wellington Spectator reports that the complaints have been received that Havannah has spent less time in port than her predecessors. However her role has changed as the troubled times with the natives have waned and she is now able to visit other places on the station which have included:

1849: Sydney, Port Phillip, Port Arthur, Hobart Town, Auckland, Bay of Islands, Savage Island, Navigator's Group viz: Tau, Tutuilla, Upolu, Manono ; the Friendly Islands: Vavao, Lafooka, Tongataboo ; the Feejee Islands: Lakemba, Ovalau, Mbau, Naudi Bay, Cocoa-nut Point, and Sandalwood Bay in the island of Vanveluva ; the New Hebrides: Anciteum, Tanna, Erromango, Vate ; the Loyalty Islands: Uen, Lifu, Mari ; the Isle of Pines ; New Caledonia: Yeagen, Itima, Murari, and returned to Sydney.

1850: Wellington, the Auckland Islands, Port Cooper, Akeroa, Port Underwood, Sydney, Auckland, Wangaroa ; New Hebrides: Aneitum, Tanna, Erromano, Vate, Mallicolo, Espitito Santo ; Queen Charlotte's Group: Vanicolo, or La Perouse's Island ; Solomon Group: San Cristoval, Malayta (where Captain Erskine discovered a new harbour, Port Adam), Isle de Contrarieties, or Ulaqua ; New Caledonia: Balade, Yengen, Yarti, Nicketi, Kanela, Murari, Jitima ; Sydney, Hobart Town, Maria Island.

1851: Wellington, Port Cooper, Port Underwood, Queen Charlotte's Sound, Nelson and Auckland.

These visits have tended to protect British interests, strengthen the British interest, and advance civilisation thoughout these isles of the Pacific, all points of no mean importance to the colonies in these seas, and to the British Empire, of which they form a part.

18 Aug 1851 Havannah sails for England, via Rio Janeiro, along with a number of officers and men from the Acheron and Calliope.

25 Aug 1851 Cook Straits

17 Sep 1851 Western entrance of Magellan Straits. Anchored at Port Famine for 2 days to check to Acheron's chronometers.

26 Sep 1851 Cleared the Straits of Magellan.

12 Oct 1851 Arrived Rio Janeiro.

7 Dec 1851 Arrived at Devonport from Portsmouth at 11 am. Following exercises etc. the vessel came into harbour and will be paid off on Tuesday.

14 May 1855 Report of loss Hecla at Gibraltar received at Sydney - see report page 93 (1855)

Herald (survey vessel)

Feb 1850 Expected Valparaiso

20 Apr 1850 The Polynesian reports the arrival of this vessel on 4^th inst., with a complement of 150, and is shortly due to leave for the North in search of Sir John Franklin's missing expedition.

10 Jun 1852 Departed Plymouth Sound. Captain Henry Mangles Denham was appointed to the Herald, in command, at Chatham, to take charge of a 5 year surveying expedition, with the Torch, in the Southern Seas, especially New Caledonia and the Feejee Islands.

28 Jun - 9 Jul 1852 Madeira.

9 Jul - 24 Sep 1852 Towed the Torch Madeira to Rio, having insufficient coals for steaming.

17 - 29 Jul 1852 St. Vincent.

24 Sep - 20 Oct 1852 Rio

12 Nov 1852 Arrived Tristan de Acunha. Made a running survey of the Island.

26 Nov 1852 Arrived at the Cape of Good Hope.

5 - 27 Dec 1852 Simon's Bay

16 - 27 Jan 1853 St Pauls. Made a rough survey of the island.

18 Feb 1853 Arrived Sydney.

27 Mar 1853 Arrived Sydney.

29 Mar 1853 Depart Sydney on a cruise to search for her tender, the Torch, long delayed in her arrival.

19 Apr 1853 At Launceston. Having heard that the Torch is safe she is sailing for Sydney.

6 Jul 1853 Arrived Sydney from Howe's Island which she left 28 June. Passengers Mr Fraser and Mrs Wright. Since leaving Sydney she has been to George Town, Port Dalrymple, Howe's Island (surveyed), Middleton's Shoal (surveyed), back to Howe's Island and thence to Sydney.

30 Jul 1853 It is reported that she is refitting, and will be ready for sea in a few days

2 Sep 1853 Sailed from Sydney for Howe's Island and the Feegees. She will be absent about 6 months.

5 Sep 1853 Arrives Lord How's Island. A survey of Elizabeth Reef was prevented due to bad weather.

24 Sep 1853 Arrived Isle of Pines. The name of Port Albert was given to the harbour on the south side of the Island, which was thoroughly surveyed. (See page 3 (1854) for interesting comments re visit of French Naval ship Phoque with an admiral on board, and French missionaries ashore.

22 Oct 1853 Sailed for the Fijees. "La Brilliante Shoal" searched for, but no found.

4 Nov 1853 Visited Matthews Island, but no anchorage could be obtained. Due to unsuitable winds the passage to the Figees was abandoned and the Herald bore up to Aneiteum.

28 Nov 1853 Departed Aneiteum having surveyed the Island. Natives expressed a wish to be placed under British protection rather than French.

2-3 Dec 1853 Surveyed the Island of Enonan or Fortune. Confirmed the non-existence of Burrow's Island.

10 Dec 1853 Arrived Island of Pines and completed the survey of Port Victoria.

26-27 Dec 1853 Lord Howe's Island. It is also commented that Middleton's Island, Golden Grove and Lady Nelson's Shoals Etc. were unsuccessfully sought after.

1 Jan 1854 Arrived Sydney from a surveying cruise, carrying passengers: Mr Hill from the Isle of Pines ; G. Brian from Lord Howe's Island.

23 Jan 1854 Steward Patrick Kuffe was charged with stealing a quantity of cigars, but nothing would appear to have been proved, and he was discharged

10 Apr 1854 Lt Fayrer of HMS Herald, has been stationed at the South Head, having at his command the use of the pilot boats, together with a supply of blue lights and rockets, for the purpose of boarding and reporting strange vessels entering the port after dark.

Apr 1854 Now moored in Watson's Bay, where she will remain for the present

5 May 1854 Departs Sydney to survey a bank, 10 miles to the east of the Heads.

6 May 1854 Arrived Sydney from a survey.

27 May 1854 Leaves Sydney on a cruise

8 Jun 1854 Arrives Auckland from Sydney

23 Oct 1854 Detailed RoP - see page 203 (1854)

8 Jan 1855 Letter from one of the officers - RoP - See page 262 (1854/5)

30 Jan 1855 Arrives Sydney, from a cruise, with passengers J. Smith, J. Lambert, J. Taylor. From Feejees - J. Merry, J. Davis, prisoners of the crown escaped, and C. Amis, a deserter from 68th regiment. Crew affected with scurvy as a result of the protracted cruise.

19 Feb 1855 Captain Denham has brought portions of wreck into harbour for inspection as to identity.

23 May 1855 Leaves Sydney on a cruise

HMS Herald - Substance of a letter to the Hydrographer of the Admiralty by Captain Denham regarding Islands and Reefs in the Western Pacific Ocean - see page 248 (1855) Covers 1854-5?

10 Dec 1855 It is reported in Sydney that the Herald was still prosecuting her surveys in the Feejee Archipelago ; and was expected to sail from Ovalu for Sydney about the middle of this month.

Hercules, 72

27 Dec 1852 It is reported in Sydney that this vessel will be fitted out to bring out emigrants from the Isle of Skye, and to take back to England a cargo of timber for the Admiralty. Commander Baynton has been appointed to her.

Dec 1852 Left Isle of Skye with nearly 800 emigrants, but due to smallpox and fever called at Cork.

14 Apr 1853 Left Cork with 380, emigrants

21 Jun 1853 Left Cape of Good Hope

25 Jul 1853 Arrived Adelaide, with 375 immigrants for Adelaide and Port Phillip.

1 Aug 1853 Arrived Melbourne, from Adelaide with 183 passengers

12 Aug 1853 Departed Melbourne for Hong Kong calling at Sydney to be refitted.

16 Aug 1853 Arrived Sydney.

28 Aug 1853 Leaves Sydney for Hongkong.

Hermes, 6, steam sloop,

28 Aug 1854 It is reported in Sydney, NSW, that Capt Fishbourne, has arrived at Spithead from Hong Kong in 106 days. She has been 4½ years in commission, and in that time has been stationed at the Cape, East Indies and China. The ship will require a thorough repair. She has brought home from Hong Kong the left wind of Capt P. McLean's company of the 8th battalion of Royal Artillery.

25 Apr 55 HM Ships Sybille, Hornet, and Bittern, under Commodore Hon Charles Elliot, lat 37 ° 17 ' 23 " N, long 1331 ° 54 ' 23 " E - island discovered in the Sea of Japan, about a mile in extent, running in a NW by W and SE by E direction and are formed together by a reef of rocks. We could discern no dangers lying off them and the waters appears to be deep close to the shore. They are barren, without exception of a few patches of grass on their sides and landing would be difficult except in very calm weather. The height of the NW island was ascertained to be 410 ft above sea level - Charles C Forsyth, Cdr HMS Hornet

Hydra

3 Oct 1853 It is reported in Sydney that the dangerous ridge of rocks extending from Cape Receif, upon which the "Emily Smith" struck on her last voyage to Algoa Bay is now being surveyed by this ship

1854 Surveying East Coast of S America near Cape Reciefe

FNS Hydrographe,

22 May 1855 Capt Boulanger, schooner, arrives Sydney from Isle of Pines with part of the crew of the FNS La Aventure, 26, Commodore De Bouget, which was wrecked on the Isle of Pines 28 Apr - crew saved.

29 Dec 1849 It is reported at Sydney that the barque Volunteer, which left Sydney on 24 May, has been deserted at Monterey.[Crew gone to the Gold Rush ?] The Inconstant despatched men to take her on.

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6 Feb 1850 The Two Friends, which left San Francisco 9 Dec 1849, and has just arrived in N.Z. reports that the Captains and crews who deserted for the gold fields were getting tired of digging and were returning to the port and that the Inconstant was enabling them to get away from the port to Valparaiso, by putting men onboard from her own crew. The following ships have been sent from San Francisco to Valparaiso: Arequipo, Louisa, John Ritson, and William Watson.

15 Jan 1850 Sailed from Callao for San Blas, from thence along the coast, collecting freight. It is understood that the Inconstant will be in England and paid off by December next.

8 Apr 1950 (Circa) Seen to be lying in the Bay of San Francisco

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1 Jun 1849 Arrived at Singapore from China and left for England via Bombay the following day.

22 Oct 1852 Officers of the Inflexible, then based on the R. Tagus at Lisbon, with Portuguese shipwrights inspected the Australian Royal Mail Steam Navigation Co.'s vessel "Melbourne" to see if she was seaworthy ; it was agreed that she was seaworthy, despite the claims of the passengers.

1 Jul 1850 Arrived Honolulu

4 Jul 1850 Sails for the North in search of Sir John Franklin's missing expedition.

10 Oct 1852 Run foul of, in the Hamoaze, by the pilot of the Aus . RM SN Co.'s ship "Melbourne".

Juno, 28,

Capt Freemantle, sailed form Bombay for this station (Australia), prior to the departure of the Madras, the admiral having given up his intention of detaining her in India. She may therefore be expected very shortly to relieve the Calliope, which will return to England directly upon the arrival of the Juno. We understand that Captain Fitzgerald will allow shippers of treasure to take advantage of this opportunity.

31 Jan 1855 Arrives Sydney, from Bombay (left 12 Oct) and Trincomalee (left 29 Nov 54)

7 Jun 1855 Leaves Sydney on a cruise.

23 Jun 1855 Arrives Sydney from a cruise

11 Jul 1855 Arrived Sydney from a cruise.

7 Aug 1855 leaves Sydney on a cruise.

29 Sep 1855 arrived Tahiti from Pitcairn Island, having carried away her foreyard. She was detained there a few days and then proceeded to Pago Pago, in the island of Tutnila, where she had a narrow escape from getting ashore in attempting to go out. Oct 18 she arrived at Apia. More on page 269 (1855).

17 Oct ? 1855 reported as having arrived Upolo.

30 Nov 1855 News received at Sydney that the Juno and Dido are reported to be at Opolu, the former was about to proceed to Vavou, and the latter to Tahiti.

27 Dec 1855 Arrived Sydney, from Apia, 12 Nov ; Ovalon, 9 Dec ; Norfolk Island, 20 Dec. RoP of cruise among the South Sea Islands, including Pitcairn, Papeite, Manus, Apia, Ovalon, Norfolk Island - see page 281 (1855)

Lily

29 Dec 1854 Arrived in the Bay from Singapore, is en route for England, whither she proceeds via Cape Horn - MM Herald 30 Dec

29 Jan 1855 Is reported to have sailed on Sunday for Portsmouth, but no official notification has been sent to the Custom House from Williamstown !

24 Sep 1849 Departed Singapore for Batavia. Captain the Hon Henry Keppel.

20 Oct 1849 It is reported at Sydney that the Meander is to leave Hong Kong for Sydney, Auckland Isles, New Zealand, Sandwich and Navigator Islands, on her way to Valparaiso, calling at Port Essington, embarking officers and Royal Marines there, after destroying the works.

2 Oct 1849 Is reported to be at Anjer Roads, en route for Port Essington.

1 Dec 1849 Departed Port Essington. It is reported that the station is now entirely abandoned, apart from a few livestock.

8 Dec 1849 Arrived Banda Islands (Dutch).

Touched at Port Hunter

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12 Jan 1850 Departed Carteret's Harbour at New Ireland

7 Feb 1850 Arrived Sydney with passengers: Capt. Macarthur, RM, Capt. Lambrick, RM, Lt. GS Dunbar, RM, and 34 rank and file of marines, Mr Macarthur, Mr Vigors, 4 women and 1 child.

7 Feb 1850 A few hours after arriving in the port, having anchored in Farm Cove, a serious fire broke out onboard in the bread room, see below for detail.

9 Mar 1850 It is reported that she will proceed to Hobart Town Tuesday next, returning to Sydney before sailing for South America.

Apr 1850 Whilst at Hobart carried out landing exercises with the local military. (Hobart Town Courier)

20 Apr 1850 Departed Hobart Town with Governor of NSW and suite.

26 Apr 1850 Arrived Sydney from Hobart Town.

3 May 1850 Sails for Valparaiso, via Norfolk Island and New Zealand.

16 May 1850 Several invalids sent to the Rattlesnake to return home to the UK.

25 May 1850 Departs Wellington for Auckland.

20 Jul 1850 It is reported that she will proceed from Auckland to Tongataboo and the South Sea Islands.

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20 Jul 1851 Arrived Portsmouth, with 900,000 dollars freight.

13 Sep 1851 It is reported in NSW that when the ship was in North American waters Midshipman Egerton's gun, whilst ashore with a shooting party in California, burst killing him on the spot.

Feb/Mar 1849 The Statesman reports that the Mariner, at Woosung, was sent to the aid of the wreck of the Elizabeth and Henry, lost on the Loo Choo Islands, but was unable to get her off, returning to port with the ship's stores and remainder of the crew not previously rescued by whalers.

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5 Jan 1850 The Freak from Shanghai reports the drowning of the Rev. Mr. Lowder, Chaplain to the British residents at Shanghai, September last, whilst swimming off an island near Chusan, where he and his wife were on a cruise onboard the Mariner.

31 Jul 1855 Gradual launch at Portsmouth - saga of the launch and the statistics for the largest ship in the RN - see page 251 (1855)

26 May 1854 Arrived Plymouth, has arrived from the Cape of Good Hope with the mails of the SS Australian, which was ashore at Green Point, Table Bay, 28 Mar, but now refloated, 6 April

Monarch, 90,

6 Aug 1855 It is reported at Sydney to have arrived Valparaiso, en route for Petropaulovski

FNS Moselle, 22

25 Nov 1852 Departed Tongataboo.

14 Dec 1852 Arrives Sydney from Tongataboo, for supplies and provisions for the French government at Tahiti.

FNS Nesus, brig,

4 Dec 1855 from Bourbon, has put in to Sydney for provisions. She has 70 seamen on board for the Sybelle, frigate, at present on the Southern Pacific station.

10 Dec 1855 Leaves Sydney for New Caledonia

Mid 1950 Stops barque Elizabeth, en route with passengers for Australia, on suspicion of being a slave vessel.

20 Feb 1851 Commander Drury sailed from Plymouth for the Cape of Good Hope and Sydney..

2 Jun 1851 Left Cape of Good Hope

21 Jul 1851 Arrived Sydney

23 Aug 1851 Will sail for Auckland on Tuesday next. Her first duty will be to survey the Hokianga.

1 Jan 1852 Reported by the Moa to be at Auckland.

6 Jan 1852 Went down to Waiheki last week to take water on board, returning Wednesday. It is noted that this should be the last occasion on which this exercise will have to be performed, with a new piped water supply nearing completion at Auckland.

6 Jan 1852 Sails for Hokianga, to complete the survey of the bar, and thence to Kiapara

21 Jan 1852 Sails today from Wellington

28 Apr 1852 Arrived Auckland from Kiapara

17 Jul 1852 Departed Auckland for Sydney with the Lt. Gov.'s wife and servant onboard.

18 Jul 1852 On leaving the coast met terrible gales and storms, which stove in 3 of the ship's boats, blew out the sails, and delayed the arrival of the vessel at Sydney.

10 Aug 1852 Arrived Sydney for a refit. It is reported that the vessel has been absent for nearly 12 months on the West Coast of New Zealand, the rivers Hokianga and Kiapara, with all their branches, having been carefully surveyed.

31 Aug 1852 Departs Sydney to continue the survey of the coast of New Zealand.

5 Feb 1853 Came up the Manukau where she is to commence a complete survey of the harbour. Since leaving the port she has been into Kawau, Monganui, and Hohora on the East Coast, as well as anchored under the North Cape, sounding the coast, and among the Three Kings, from whence she went to Ahipara, where she anchored and sounded the bay ; continuing the sounding of the West Coast towards Hokianga, when she was obliged to get on offing during a westerly gale - which was succeeded by NE winds until the 4^th inst. Whilst coming up the Manukau she grounded a little below the Wahu, having no chart. She is at present anchored off Shag Point, a few miles below Onehunga.

15 Oct 1853 On Monday evening last resumed surveying operations on the East Coast, calling at Coromandel, from whence she proceeds to the Bay of Plenty, and Hick's Bay, East Cape.

25 Feb 1854 Reported to be at the Pelorus.

8 May 1854 Arrives Auckland for repairs, from Manukau, having experienced bad weather which caused much damage.

3 Jan 1855 Lying at Littleton, when the Waterwitch left and was to sail for Aukland in a few days.

25 Jun 1855 - Nautical notices of the coast of New Zealand - RoP re weather, earthquake, navigation etc - see page 207 (1855)

28 Aug 1855 Pandora, Commander Drury, came into harbour on Saturday afternoon, after a surveying cruise in the Thames - Per New Zealander.

Precise date uncertain - 26 Sep - 13 Oct 1855 , Arrived Auckland on Sunday morning at 11 o'clock. Since leaving Auckland she has been on the north coast, touching Kawau and the Bay of Islands. Yesterday morning, she weighed and proceeded up the Waitemata, where she will be engaged for some short time on survey. The officers and ship's company of the Pandora have subscribed a day's pay to the Patriotic Fund - New Zealander 26 Sep - 13 Oct

Perseverance, troop ship

20 Jan 1855 Accident at Woolwich dockyard - masts too heavy ?

and HMS President 2 Oct from Petro Polenski for Victoria: Oct 3 Off Cape Clasett "Cyclone" spoke with Russian-American Co's ship Sitka, Groves, a prize to the Pique and President and bound for Victoria - taken of Kan.

Plover (survey vessel)

Feb 1850 Expected Valparaiso

31 Dec 1852 Has arrived at Portsmouth from Brazil with 6,370 oz. Gold, trans-shipped from the Emperor, which put into Monte Video in a leaky condition.

31 Jul 1852 It is reported in a copy of the Straits Times, received at Sydney that, with the Semiramis ?, this vessel is about to leave Singapore for Labuan to join the Pluto and from thence proceed to the coast of Borneo, to discover what has happened to the Dolphin.

5 Mar 1853 Supplied 340 tons of coal to the SS Adelaide at St Helena.

Jun 1850 In the Pacific

May/June 1852 Reported to be lying at Tahiti.

20 Jul 1852 Reported to have left Huahine on a cruise through the Society Islands

12 Oct 1852 The Southern Cross of this date reports the departure of this vessel to Waiheki for water and thence to survey the East Coast of New Zealand, returning about the middle of December,

21 Mar 1853 It is reported in Sydney that the 2,000 ton US steamer, "City of Pittsburgh" caught fire and was left to burn in Valparaiso Bay. The Portland sent her launch in an attempt to sink her, but failed. She eventually burned to the water's edge. No lives were lost.

2 Sep 1854 The "Splendid" has arrived at Moreton Bay and reports that after she left Tahiti the Virago brought formal news of the war to this area, and subsequently left port with the President and FNS La Fort and another un-named French ship

Pique and HMS President 2 Oct from Petro Polenski for Victoria: Oct 3 Off Cape Clasett "Cyclone" spoke with Russian-American Co's ship Sitka, Groves, a prize to the Pique and President and bound for Victoria - taken of Kan.

Feb 1855 At Valparaiso.

18 Mar 1855 sailed from Callao for Petropalowsky.

HNMS Prins Frederick, 36

9 May 1854 Dutch frigate arrives Sydney from Batavia.

18 May 1854 Capt Van Braam Houckgeest, Dutch frigate departs for South America.

22 Sep 1850 A captured slaver was brought into St. Helena on this date. Shipping Gazette.

Jun / Jul 1852 Expected Hong Kong

17 May 1853 Operating out of Hong Kong on anti-pirate patrols. See page 226 for details.

25 May 1849 Sailed from Moreton Bay

1 Sep 1849 The brig Sir John Byng has been chartered by the Government to proceed to Cape York with stores for the Rattlesnake and Bramble and Port Essington, sailing on the 5^th inst.

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6 Feb 1850 Arrives Sydney from a surveying cruise. During the cruise a white woman by the name of Barbara Crawford was rescued from natives. See below for detail.

7 Feb 1850 Crew assist Maeander in putting out a serious fire onboard the Maeander

16 Mar 1850 The death is reported of Captain Owen Stanley on Wednesday morning.

23 Mar 1850 It is reported that Lieutenant Yule has been appointed in command.

28 Mar 1850 Able Seaman William Howard of this ship reports to the Sydney Water Police that he came upon a dispute in which one man was thrown by 2 others into the water. Being unable to swim he was unable to render assistance, but returned to the ship and reported the incident.

2 May 1850 Sails for England via the Falkland Islands. This departure appears to be contentious in that it was ordered by Captain Keppel of the Maeander, temporarily on station, whereas Captain Erskine of the Havannah, senior officer on station, but junior to Capt. Keppel wished to keep the Rattlesnake on station until the end of the year. Watch this space !

16 May 1850 Arrived Bay of Islands.

23 May 1850 Sailed.

5-25 July 1850 Falkland Islands.

29 Sep - 5 Oct 1850 Fayal

3 Aug 1850 And now the Flag Officer appoints Captain Cockburn in command, according to the United Services Gazette. It was subsequently been reported in the Naval and Military Gazette that Captain Keppel of the Meander threatened to fire into the Havannah if Captain Erskine pursued the Rattlesnake with a view to replacing the officer appointed by Keppel. What a mess !

8 Aug 1850 Spoken to by the Phoenician of Rio Janeiro.

23 Oct 1850 Arrived Plymouth. She was carrying several invalids from the Havannah and Maeander.

15 Nov 1850 It is reported that two of her Master's Mates - Brooker and Inskip - passed their examinations for Master on arrival in the UK and came out at the head of the 14 candidates.

11 Jan 1851 It is reported that the vessel is to proceed to Chatham to be paid-off.

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22 Mar 1851 It is reported that Their Lordships approve of Captain Keppel's action in appointing Lieutenant Yule as the commanding officer of the Rattlesnake, on the death of Captain Stanley, but disapprove of his having sent the ship to the UK before she had completed the surveys which would have occupied her for another 6 months.

5 Apr 1851 It is reported in Sydney that MAA Robert Coates, late of this ship, has been awarded the medal and £15 gratuity, and a pension of £36.16s. per annum for a service of 37 years. United Service Gazette.

8 Jan 1855 Arctic search for the "Monongabela" of New Bedford following the Winter of 1853, when it is thought that this vessel may have been carried into the ice. It is understood that the prospects of finding this vessel in one piece are slim

28 May 1855 Report from Sydney, NSW of Launch of Admiralty Troop ship - details - see page 112 (1855)

5 Oct 1850 Is reported en route from the River Plate to Rio.

Jun / Jul 1852 Lying at Blenheim Reach, Whampoa. The 1^st Lieut. Died between 8 - 10 June.

6 Mar 1852 It is reported in Sydney that the Scourge, Captain Kerr, had re-discovered the "Isolo Giulina," a volcanic island which appeared in 1831 between Pantellaria and Sicily and grew to a height of 120 feet, and then disappeared. It would now appear to be about 10 feet below the surface and has been buoyed. Journal des Debats.

FNS La Serieuse, 28

20 Apr 1850 The Polynesian reports the arrival of this vessel on the 18^th inst. from Callao and is said to be leaving shortly for the Sandwich Islands.

9 Nov 1852 Departed Hong Kong, with the Governor, for Sydney.

20 Jun 1853 Arrived Sydney - see page 187 for RoP.

26 Jul 1853 Leaves Sydney for England via Auckland and Valparaiso

RoP of passage from Hong Kong to Sydney 9 Nov 52 - 30 Jun 1853 from the Nautical Magazine - See page 224 (1854).

Sep 1850 Off Brazil employed in anti-slavery patrols.

2 Oct 1850 Captured the slaver Felicidade and set her on fire, and sank her having used the vessel as a target for her gunners. This was the Sharpshooter's 6^th capture in a little more than 3 months.

8 May 1852 It is reported in Sydney that the Simoom has been fitted with a ship's cooking galley, which can cook food for a 1,000 men and distil 90 gallons of fresh water from salt water per hour.

Southampton, 50

5 Oct 1850 At Rio Janeiro.

7 Dec 1852 Arrived at Madras from Simon's Bay, Cape of Good Hope.

Speedy, 1,031 tons

27 Jun 1855 Captain Nightingall. Gold and specie shipped for London

26 Dec 1851 Captain Shadwell. Sent to the neighbourhood of Ping-hoi to save what was left of the wrecked Portuguese schooner Aurora. However wreckers had stripped the vessel, including some of her timbers, and there was nothing left of value, excepting 3 cannon which had been saved by a local mandarin.

16 May 1852 Sailed from Hong Kong to go into dock to repair damage caused by collision with a rock and the Contest, which occurred whilst towing the brig, prior to proceeding to Rangoon.

HNMS Sumatra, 32,

28 Oct 1852 Cdr Wipft, arrived Cape of Good Hope Wed last from Holland via Cadiz,.her destination Australia, to protect the interests of Dutch merchantmen carrying English emigrants

14 Jan 1853 Left the Cape of Good Hope.

8 Mar 1853 Arrived Melbourne.

5 Apr 1853 Arrived Sydney

22 Apr 1853 Departed Sydney 7 am. Destination unknown, but could be Batavia ?

28 Jun 1849 A Plymouth paper reports that she was commissioned on Tuesday, with a complement of 66 men, and is to be fitted with all despatch for service on the Pacific Station, proceeding by way of the Cape and Van Diemen's Land

20 Oct 1849 It is reported that the Swift is to bring O'Brien Meagher, and other Irish State Prisoners to Van Diemen's Land. It is also now reported that she is to serve on the South America Station.

4 Jul 1849 Departed Plymouth

9 Jul 1849 Sailed from Kingstown

12 Sep 1849 Left the Cape of Good Hope

27 Oct 1849 Arrived Hobart Town with the Irish state prisoners William Smith O'Brien ; T. M. Meagher ; Bellew McManus ; Patrick O'Donahue,

1 Dec 1849 Has arrived at Port Jackson after a rough passage from Hobart Town and is expected to remain for about a week, after which she will proceed to Valparaiso via Auckland

25 Dec 1849 Arrived Port Nicholson

20 Dec 1849 Sailed for Valparaiso

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6 Jul 1850 Circa, Is reported to have arrived at Honolulu from Mazatlan.

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25 Apr 55 HM Ships Sybille, Hornet, and Bittern, under Commodore Hon Charles Elliot, lat 37 ° 17 ' 23 " N, long 1331 ° 54 ' 23 " E - island discovered in the Sea of Japan, about a mile in extent, running in a NW by W and SE by E direction and are formed together by a reef of rocks. We could discern no dangers lying off them and the waters appears to be deep close to the shore. They are barren, without exception of a few patches of grass on their sides and landing would be difficult except in very calm weather. The height of the NW island was ascertained to be 410 ft above sea level - Charles C Forsyth, Cdr HMS Hornet

25 Sep 1852 The Speed on arrival at Sydney from San Fransisco reports the Thetis as arriving at San Fransisco from Vancouver's Island before she left.

FNS Thisbe, 32

16 Aug 1850 Seen by the Deborah at anchor at Papeite, said to be from China bound for France.

3 Jul 1852 It is reported at Sydney, NSW, that Torch will form a part of a 5 year surveying expedition of the Southern Seas with the former frigate Herald. Lieutenant Chimmo in command.

28 Jun - 9 Jul 1852 Madeira.

9 Jul - 24 Sep 1852 Towed the Torch Madeira to Rio, having insufficient coals for steaming.

17 - 29 Jul 1852 St. Vincent.

24 Sep - 20 Oct 1852 Rio

12 Nov 1852 Arrived Tristan de Acunha. Made a running survey of the Island.

26 Nov 1852 Arrived at the Cape of Good Hope.

11 Dec 1852 Sailed from the Cape of Good Hope for Sydney

28 Dec 1852 Left Simon's Bay

27 Jan 1853 Parted company with the Herald.

29 Jan 1853 Sailed from St Pauls

10 Feb 1853 Arrived Swan River

Sailed from King George's Sound

7 Apr 1853 Arrived Sydney

29 May 1853 Arrived Hall's Island during a heavy gale.

6 Jul 1853 Arrived Sydney from Howe's Island, which she left of 28 June.

26 Jul 1853 Alongside HMS Acheron for coal

30 Jul 1853 Thursday evening. Whaleboat race to Pinchgut and back between 2 crews from this vessel.

19 Mar 1854 Sailed from Sydney on a cruise.

28 Mar 1854 left Moreton Bay ; called at Newcastle for coaling,

6 Apr 1854 Left Newcastle at 12 pm.

10 Apr 1854 Departs Sydney on a cruise.

3 Jun 1854 Reported as having left for the Feegees from Anatam.

Jun 1854 Is reported to have gone after pirates who captured the "Lady Franklin" ship. The Commander has information that the pirates have gone to the Feegees and has determined to bring them to justice.

28 Aug 1854 From Sydney an interesting RoP (see page 157 (1854)) of her visit to many of the South Sea Islands including the New Hebrides and the Fejees.

2 Sep 1854 Lt Chimmo, arrives Sydney from a cruise

11 Sep 1854 RoP of cruise received - interesting. See page 173 (1854).

4 Oct 1854 Sails from Sydney to the Feejees to resume survey duties - but article difficult to read

4 Oct 1854 Arrives Newcastle.

5 Oct 1854 Resumes her voyage.

1 Dec 1854 Arrived Newcastle with survivors of Ningpo, wrecked on Ewart's Island. She has put in for provisions and coals and will proceed to Sydney after being supplied.

10 Dec 1854 Arrives Sydney from Newcastle, which she left of 9 Dec

11 Dec 1854 Lengthy RoP including recovery of the survivors of the Ningpo(o). Page 241 (1854)

29 Dec 1854 Leaves Sydney for Percy Islands

8 Jan 1855 Arrived Moreton Bay, from Sydney

13 Jan 55 Has put into Moreton Bay for coal - on completion she proceeds to the Percy Islands in search of Mr Strange and his companions - per Courier.

No dates given: Arrived in the bay on Sunday last, from the Percy Islands. She has been successful in her mission, having not only ascertained the fate of Mr Strange and his companions, but also taken prisoners three of the blacks implicated in the murders. see more from RoP See Page 49 (1855)

11 Mar 1855 Returned from a cruise of the Percy Islands in search of Mr Strange and his companions, the result of which has already transpired, but it may be interesting to know that when the Torch arrived at the Second Percy Island, the scene of the catastrophe, the shore party after some difficulty managed to secure three men, three women, and four children, natives, who were living on the island ; the remainder of escaped - see article for more - see page 53 (1855) for details.

11 Mar 1855 Arrives Sydney from Moreton Bay, which she left on 3rd inst.

23 Mar 1855 Arrives Sydney from Newcastle with Governor and suite.

4 June 1855 Wednesday next Torch to be dry-docked in the Waterview Bay Dry Dock

3 Sep 1855 It is reported that the Torch is now under the command of Mr Dobbins of HMS Juno and manned from HMS Fantome and that she will sail tomorrow for Port Curtis with stores &c.

5 Sep 1855 Arrives at Newcastle.

18 Sep 1855 Arrives Moreton Bay from Port Curtis and departs 24 Sep for Sydney

29 Sep 1855 Arrives Newcastle from Moreton Bay

30 Sep 1855 Arrives Sydney, from Port Curtis which she left on 16th, Brisbane 24th, and Moreton Bay 27th ultimo.

30 Sep 1855 Government steamer, arrived here yesterday from Port Curtis. She put into Moreton Bay for coals and also into Newcastle on the 28th ultimo, for the same purpose.

FNS Thisbe

22 May 1852 It is report at Sydney that the Thisbe was at Guihene and had suppressed revolt.

Trincomalee

29 May 1854 Sails from Honolulu to the northward, perhaps in the tracks of the Russian frigate Diana, which left this port the previous day. [Ed. Note: Or perhaps with a view to detaining Russian vessels involved in trade]

Tweed, 18

5 Oct 1850 Is reported to be at Pernambuco. Commander Lord F. Russel.

May/June 1852 Reported to be lying at Tahiti.

20 Jul 1852 Reported to have left Huahine on a cruise through the Society Islands

11 May 1854 Arrives Callao from Panama, with official despatches to the admiral announcing the declaration of war against Russia. The Russian frigate Aurora, 52, sailed 11 days previous to the Virago's arrival. Her destination is unknown, but it is conjectured to be the Sandwich Islands

2 Sep 1854 The "Splendid" has arrived at Moreton Bay and reports that after she left Tahiti the Virago brought formal news of the war to this area, and subsequently left port with the President and FNS La Fort and another un-named French ship

13 Nov 1854 The "Acis" on arrival at Hobart Town reports the capture of the Russian frigate Diana, 52, by this vessel, following a short action - prize towed into San Francisco - or so it is reported !

?? Mar 1855 Sailed from Callao for Valparaiso and England.

5 Nov 1852 Departs Melbourne. The vessel appears to have been detained at Port Phillip, in quarantine, despite the necessary medical certificates being available and there being no small pox onboard.

10 Nov 1852 Arrives Sydney with a detachment of officers and men of the 40^th regiment. Captain Von Donop has stated that the ship will coal Monday and Tuesday, being ready to sail for England Thursday, via the Cape of Good Hope and Ascension.

22 Nov 1852 Deviation of compass checked.

25 Jan 1853 Arrived at the Cape of Good Hope.

21 Dec 1850 The Sub-Marine Telegraph Between .Dover And Calais. - The long-promised experimental operations for establishing a continuous telegraphic communication between Great Britain and the Continent, by means of wires sunk between Dover and Calais, were commenced on Tuesday at Dover. At one o'clock the steamer Goliath was ready to start across with all the necessary apparatus on board, and a crew of about thirty men, consisting of pilots and sailors superintended by Dr. Reid, of the House of Commons ; Mr. C. Wollaston, C.E. ; Mr. J.. Crampton, C.E.; Mr. F. Edwards and others. Between the paddle wheels, in the centre of the vessel, was a gigantic drum or wheel, nearly fifteen feet long and 7 .feet diameter, weighing. seven tons, and fixed on a strong framework. Upon it was coiled up in careful close convolutions about thirty miles of telegraphic wire, one-tenth of an inch in diameter, encased in a covering of gutta percha the thickness of a little finger. The point proposed; to be reached, Cape Grinez, the nearest landmark to the English coast, and.. between Calais and Boulogne, is a distance of, 21 miles. so that a surplus of nine miles of wire was held in reserve for the purpose of slackening. Captain Bullock, of Her Majesty's steamship Widgeon, caused the track of the navigation to be marked in as direct a route as possible by placing a series of pilot buoys with sags on the route, beside being prepared to accompany, the experimental cruise with his own vessel as a tender. The connecting wires were placed in readiness at the Government pier in the harbour, and likewise at the Cape, where they ran up the face of the acclivity, which is 194 feet above the sea-mark. The necessary batteries and manipulators were all onboard, but as a gale and rolling sea unexpectedly sprung up, the operation was adjourned until Wednesday morning. Some interesting experiments, however, were made upon a small scale to show the practicability of the plan. A, mile of wire was paid out off the deck from the pier to Shakespear's Cliff, and the sinking process was proved to be a practicable performance. A communication to the following effect was also sent through twenty-four miles of wire: " Printed by electric telegraph on board the Goliath steamboat." On Wednesday morning, at half-past ten, the experiment of sinking submarinely was practically commenced.

The Goliath rode out to the Government Pier, with her telegraphic tackle and apparatus on board under a calm sea and sky and a favouring wind. The connection between the thirty miles of telegraphic wire was then made good to 300 yards of the same wire enclosed in a leaden tube on shore, to prevent it being bruised by the shingle on the beach, and to enable the experimenters, as they proceeded out to sea, to send communications on shore: The vessel being fairly under weigh, steamed out at the rate of three or four miles an hour into the open sea in a direct track for Cape Grinez. The wire weighed five tons and the cylinder two.

The only conjectured difficulty on the route was at a point in mid-channel called the Ridge, between which and another inequality called the Varne, both well known and dreaded by navigators, there is a deep submarine valley. surrounded by shifting sands, the one being seventeen miles in length and the other twelve, and in their vortex, not unlike the voracious one of the Goodwin Sands, ships encounter danger, lose their anchors, and drift and trolling nets of fishermen are frequently lost. Over this, however, the wire was successfully submerged below the reach, it is believed, of either ships' anchors, sea-animals, or fishing nets. The remainder of the route. though rougher on approaching the coast of France, was accomplished cleverly but slowly. A communication, dated Cape Grinez, coast of France, half-past eight pm and received at Dover by submarine telegraph, was as follows:- " The Goliah has just arrived in safety, and the complete connection of the underwater wire with that left at Dover this morning is being run up the face of the cliff:" Complimentary interchanges were passed between France and England. under the strait and through it for the first time.

19 Sep 1850 A captured slaver was brought into St. Helena on this date. Shipping Gazette.

Convict ships signalled with pendant No 0