Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society Inside The 18th Century Brothel Ship
Sep 30, 2025
Join maritime historian Siân Rees, author of The Floating Brothel, as she uncovers the intriguing tale of the Lady Juliana, a ship that transported over 200 women convicts to Australia in the late 18th century. Discover the varied crimes that led to their transportation, the conditions aboard the ship, and the complex relationships that formed between the crew and convicts. Siân sheds light on life in the nascent colony, the challenges these women faced, and the impact they had on Australia’s survival. A captivating journey into an often-overlooked chapter of history!
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Australia As Alien And Intimidating
- Australia appeared utterly alien and frightening to urban British convicts accustomed to city life.
- Fear of the unknown was used to discourage escape and control convicts.
Long Voyage And Babies Born At Sea
- The Lady Juliana left Britain with about 240–250 people and 222 women reached Sydney.
- The voyage took 12 months and included stops where many onboard couples conceived and had babies.
Convicts Housed In Ship's Cargo Hold
- Convicts boarded in the ship's orlop deck, below waterline, where cargo normally went.
- Ship layouts concentrated cramped human cargo in the lowest, worst-ventilated spaces.
