Stony Ground: The Remembered Life of Convict James Ruse

Ruse, a pioneer in his adopted country, was the first prisoner ashore, carrying an officer on his back. He was pardoned, became Australia's first settled farmer, and the first ex-convict to be granted land, but faced conflict with indigenous people.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 20 June 2018
Publisher: Waterside Press

Ruse, celebrated as a pioneer in his adopted country, was reportedly the first prisoner ashore, carrying an officer on his back. Eventually pardoned, he became Australia's first settled farmer, the first ex-convict to be granted land, and the first settler to become self-sufficient, leading to conflicts with indigenous people.

In this captivating historical novel, the life of Australia's most symbolic convict is brought to life through Ruse's own voice. Born into poverty in England, Ruse was sentenced to transportation to Australia for stealing a loaf of bread. Despite his harsh punishment, he emerged as a skilled farmer and a respected member of the community.

Ruse's journey to Australia began in 1788 when he was transported aboard the First Fleet. He was assigned to the settlement at Botany Bay, where he faced the challenges of living in a new land. Despite the harsh conditions, Ruse quickly adapted and became a skilled farmer, growing crops such as wheat and corn.

Ruse's success as a farmer led to his appointment as a constable, a position of responsibility that he took seriously. He worked tirelessly to protect the settlers from the threat of indigenous people, who were often hostile to the newcomers.

Despite his efforts to establish a peaceful settlement, Ruse's relationship with the indigenous people was strained. He was accused of stealing their land and resources and of treating them with cruelty. In response, Ruse argued that he had been granted land by the British government and that he had the right to use it as he saw fit.

Ruse's conflict with the indigenous people continued to escalate, and in 1802 he was arrested and charged with murder. He was eventually pardoned, but the damage had been done. Ruse's reputation as a peaceful settler was tarnished, and he became a symbol of the conflict between the settlers and the indigenous people.

Despite his challenges, Ruse remained a respected member of the community. He continued to farm and to work as a constable, and he was known for his kindness and generosity. In 1804, he was granted land at Experiment Farm, which he used to establish a successful farm.

At Experiment Farm, Ruse pioneered new farming techniques, such as crop rotation and irrigation, which he used to improve the productivity of his land. He also built a house, which he named "The Hermitage," and which is still standing today.

Ruse's success at Experiment Farm led to his appointment as a magistrate, a position of responsibility that he took seriously. He worked tirelessly to promote justice and to protect the rights of the settlers.

Ruse's legacy as a pioneer and a symbol of the conflict between the settlers and the indigenous people is still felt today. He is celebrated as a hero by some, and as a villain by others, but his impact on Australian history is undeniable.

In conclusion, Ruse's life is a fascinating tale of triumph and tragedy, of a man who overcame adversity and who left a lasting legacy on his adopted country. His story is a reminder of the complex and often conflicting nature of Australian history, and of the importance of understanding and respecting the past.

Weight: 312g
Dimension: 232 x 155 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781909976573