Dorset, England, Convict Transportation Records, 1724-1791

This database contains indentures, court orders, and other documents relating to convicts from the county of Dorset sentenced to transportation.

Historical Background

Transportation as a punishment for convicted criminals in England came about in the seventeenth century. Transportation meant criminals were essentially exiled to one of England’s colonies for a set number of years or even for life. Many of the convicts in these records are being sent “across the seas” to America or Africa. Sentences tended to be harsh, and convicts could be transported for what might be considered minor offenses today.

What You Can Find in the Records

This database features various documents from the county of Dorset related to convicts who were to be transported. These include indentures, court orders, bonds, and correspondence. Records will typically include the convict’s name, crime, and punishment.

There may be more than one document associated with your ancestor, so use the arrow keys to scroll forward and back to make sure you find all the documents relating to the person you are looking for.