Balmain History – in the beginning

Photo Australian National Maritime Museum on The Commons

William Balmain was a British naval surgeon who sailed as an assistant surgeon with the First Fleet to establish the first European settlement in Australia, and later he became the colony’s Principal Surgeon (1788-1791).

For his services Governor Hunter granted him 200 hectares (550 acres) which formed part of the present day suburb of Balmain. Hence the suburb was named after him. Balmain sold his land holdings on 1801 for five shillings to John Gilchrist of Calcutta.

Photo Balmain & Glebe Heritage

Photo Australian National Maritime Museum on The Commons

Photo Balmain & Glebe Heritage