transportation – The Sage Page

This Day in History — 2 October 1822

Henry Rumbold — The Stolen Kettle (2 October 1822)
On this day, Henry Rumbold stole a copper tea kettle and pewter pot. Convicted at the Old Bailey, he was sentenced to seven years’ transportation.

This Day in History — 27 August 1729

27 August 1729 — Old Bailey: Benjamin Rand was convicted of a lesser offence in a housebreaking case and sentenced to transportation, illustrating how Georgian juries softened capital charges.

This Day in History – 13 August 1818

13 August 1818 — Old Bailey: A £1 Bank of England note dated today was passed and found to be forged, leading to a capital trial for uttering. In the same year, Richard Ratford was transported for 14 years for a similar offence.

This Day in History – 12 August 1839

12 August 1839 — Old Bailey: Clerk Henry Jarman admitted guilt to embezzling 7s 3d, held for an employer, and was likely sentenced to transportation, ending his career—and life in England

📜 This Day in History – 4 August 1783

James Mackey — The Sly Waistcoats That Cost a Life (4 August 1783)
Accused of stealing two waistcoats worth just eight shillings, servant James Mackey was found guilty and sentenced to seven years’ transportation. A small theft—life changing consequences.

📜 This Day in History – 31 July 1784

John Romaine — The Overcoat Theft That Ended in Exile (31 July 1784)
When John Romaine stole a cloth great-coat from a Westminster house, he was caught within minutes, confessed immediately, and was sentenced to seven years transportation. A quiet crime with life-changing consequences.

This Day in History – 29 July 1799

Rebecca Clift — A Servant’s Crime and Punishment (29 July 1799)
Found guilty of stealing fine linens from her employer, Rebecca Clift was sentenced to be whipped and transported. Her silence in court remains a haunting footnote in a justice system slow to offer mercy.