John Boston (brewer)
John Boston | |
|---|---|
| Born | England |
| Occupation(s) | Surgeon, apothecary, brewer, agricultural expert |
| Years active | 1794–? |
| Known for | Early Australian settler; founded Sydney's first brewery; salt production |
John Boston was among the initial settlers in Australia who engaged in multiple occupations, such as salt production and brewing. In 1796, he founded a brewery that crafted a type of corn beer.
Journey to Australia
Originally hailing from England, Boston was linked to the Birmingham group of radicals and embraced British republican ideals. Possibly influenced by his political stance, he departed England in 1793, presenting himself to the Colonial Office as a skilled surgeon, apothecary, brewer, and agricultural expert. The secretary of state authorized his relocation and advised Governor John Hunter to retain his services. Boston traveled with his spouse and three children aboard the Surprize, leaving Spithead on 2 May 1794 and reaching Sydney on 25 October 1794.
Tasked by the government with providing salted fish to the settlement, Boston suggested sourcing and salting fish at Broken Bay but was hindered by a shortage of vessels, manpower, and resources.
Life in Sydney
By August 1795, the colony faced a severe salt shortage. Boston proposed utilizing seawater to produce salt, an offer that was accepted. He commenced operations at Bennelong Point with seven convicts assigned to assist him. Despite their efforts, only three or four bushels of salt were produced over several weeks.
Brewing enterprise
In 1796, Boston created Sydney's first fermented alcoholic drink, a corn beer brewed from malted maize and flavored with leaves and stems of the Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana). Sold at 1s 6d, its popularity encouraged Boston to establish a specialized facility, expanding his ventures into brewing and soap manufacturing.