Robert Potter
Irish-born author and clergyman (1831-1908), in Australia from early manhood
About Robert Potter
Lived 1831 – 1908 (aged 76). Robert Potter was an Australian science fiction writer and christian cleric.
Robert Potter (18 October 1831 – 12 July 1908), also known as Canon Potter, was an Irish Australian author, Anglican minister and theologian. He is known best for his 1892 novel The Germ Growers, which is the oldest known Alien Invasion story.
Life Potter was born on 18 October 1831, in Louisburgh, Mayo, Ireland. His father was a clergyman. He was educated at Trinity College, in Dublin. While there he was awarded first prize in rhetoric and English literature. Potter's college years ended in 1856 when he graduated with an arts degree, with a first in divinity.
The two had five children: three sons and two daughters.
Potter died 12 July 1908 at his home in South Yarra, Victoria.
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Important facts
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Contemporaries
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Frequently asked questions
Who was Robert Potter?
Irish-born author and clergyman (1831-1908), in Australia from early manhood
When was Robert Potter born?
Robert Potter was born on 31 October 1831 in Louisburgh.
When did Robert Potter die?
Robert Potter died on 12 July 1908 in South Yarra.
What was Robert Potter's occupation?
Robert Potter was a science fiction writer and christian cleric.
What nationality was Robert Potter?
Robert Potter was Australian.
Sources & further reading
· DBpedia: Robert Potter (author)
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Robert Potter. https://biography.guide/robert-potter-science-fiction-writer/
MLA: "Robert Potter." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/robert-potter-science-fiction-writer/.
Chicago: "Robert Potter." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/robert-potter-science-fiction-writer/.
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