Brennan, Michael

Michael Brennan was one of three ex-soldiers from the in the 28^th Regiment of Foot, the Royal Gloucester’s, who purchased land along what was then called the Bong Bong Road, south of the river, in 1841.[1] The others were Daniel Burgoyne and John Barlow. Henry Forster, the townships gaoler who also retired from the 28^th Regiment of Foot, purchased six allotments, also south of the river.

Brennan came from Boyle, County Roscommon, in Ireland – as did John Barlow and they were discharged at the same time on 31st August 1841.[2] Brennan had arrived in the colony on 31st August 1836 on the Boyle, having then served with the regiment for eleven years.

He presumably built a house on his allotment as he does appear to remain in the village. His name is among other Berrima subscribers to the Irish Relief Fund to which he subscribed 10/- in 1847.[3]

He was still in the area in 1850 when his wife, Ellen, gave birth to a son, who they also named Michael. No further record of Michael has been found.

[1] Sydney Herald, 14 January 1942 – Memorandum is dated 4 January 1841

[2] Royal Gloucester Museum Project (private correspondence)

[3] Sydney Chronicle, 10 October 1846 and 19 June 1847