Robert Johnston

Captain Robert Johnston, R.N. (born 9 March 1792 – 8 September 1882) was an early Australian Navy Officer. Born in Sydney, Johnston grew up in the early colonial days of New South Wales and entered the British Navy at a young age, and was the first Native-Born Australian to do so. He was present during many battles including Battle of Corunna and the Siege of Cádiz. He remained attached to the Navy late into his years until he was no longer required.

Family

Johnston was the Son of respected Lieutenant-Colonel George Johnston who in 1808 led the New South Wales Corps to the only successful armed takeover of government in Australian history which is commonly known as the Rum Rebellion, and Esther Abrahams a Convict woman who became his de facto wife after they met on the First Fleet. Together they had 7 children but married later on.

Early life and education

Robert Johnston was born in Sydney in the year 1792, One of the first white European Australians to be born in the fledgling colony. His Father was distinguished Lieutenant-Colonel George Johnston of the New South Wales Corps, or 102nd Regiment, who was the chief actor in the deposition of Governor Bligh. He inherited from his father the same spirit which distinguished that officer during his Official career in the colony. At seven years of age young Johnston accompanied his father to England, and was placed at school at Newington Butts, Surrey, where he remained until he was 13 years old.

Naval service

Johnston entered the navy as a first class volunteer on HMS Malabar a 50-gun ship, the first native of Australia to do so. Though he was closely followed by other Native Born Australians John Mitchell and James Patrick Furzer. In this vessel he shared in the proceedings of the British North Sea fleet in their blockade of the Dutch and French fleets in the Texel, but without remaining any length of time in that employment Malabar was recalled home for the purpose of conveying troops from England to Monte Video, where a British force had failed in an attack upon the city. Returning to England after having performed this duty Malabar was paid off, and young Johnston joined the Namure, receiving ship, as midshipman, and shortly afterwards was appointed to Semiramis, a 36-ton frigate, commissioned for active service off the coasts of Spain and Portugal. In this position he remained from October 1808, to January 1810, and during that period he was present at the memorable Battle of Corunna. and this being followed not long afterwards by the death of his father, Lieutenant George Johnston.