John Hassell (settler)
John Hassell | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1788 London, England |
| Died | 15 August 1883 |
| Occupation(s) | Pastoralist, businessman, navy officer |
| Years active | Early 19th century – 1883 |
| Known for | Australian pastoralism and business in Western Australia |
John Hassell (1788 – 15 August 1883) was a distinguished figure in Australian pastoralism.
Originally from London, he was the son of Francis Carolus Tennant Hassell, a shipbroker, and Sarah Govey. Hassell's early career began in the navy, followed by service in the mercantile marine and subsequently the Chilean navy, during which he was detained by the Peruvian navy for approximately one year.
In 1822, he reached Tasmania, commanding vessels on trading routes connecting Sydney, Hobart, and Launceston. He received a land grant in the Tamar Valley, where he engaged in cattle farming.
Between 1836 and 1837, Hassell returned to England, where he wed Ellen Boucher and acquired a brig called Dawson. Loaded with merchandise, he voyaged to King George Sound, collaborating with his brother-in-law Frederick Boucher, who stayed in England. At Albany in Western Australia, he sold a significant portion of his goods and purchased a property near Kendenup. After disposing of the remaining cargo, Dawson, and his Tasmanian assets, he proceeded to Sydney to procure livestock and agricultural supplies before heading back to Albany in 1840.
Hassell then drove 850 sheep to Kendenup and progressively enlarged his grazing estate. By 1850, his holdings comprised both freehold and leasehold lands predominantly around Kendenup and Jerramungup.
Residing in Albany, he operated an import business alongside managing his extensive pastoral ventures. By 1870, the flock at Kendenup had increased to nearly 30,000 sheep. John Hassell passed away on 15 August 1883, leaving behind his wife and five children. His sons, John Hassell and Albert Young Hassell, went on to become influential pastoralists and members of parliament.