James Davis (escaped convict) explained

James Davis
Other Names:Duramboi
Birth Place:Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland
Baptised:2 August 1807
Death Place:Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Burial Place:Toowong Cemetery, Queensland
Occupation:Blacksmith
Shopkeeper
Spouse:Annie Shea (1846 - 1882)
Bridget Hayes (m. 1883)

James Davis (also known as Duramboi; baptised 2 August 1807 – 7 May 1889) was a Scottish-born convict notable for escaping custody in Australia and living with Aboriginals for thirteen years.

He assimilated into the native culture and lived as a Kabi Kabi man until his location by Andrew Petrie in 1842. Davis subsequently rejoined Western society and worked as a blacksmith, shopkeeper and interpreter.

Early life and education

James Davis was born in Glasgow, Scotland,[1] to blacksmith Walter Davis and his wife Mary McGrigor. On 2 August 1807, he was christened James Davie in Strathblane.[2]

Notes and References

  1. News: Jackson . Ernest Sandford . 16 December 1924 . MEN WHO WENT BUSH . 3 August 2024 . The Daily Mail . Brisbane.
  2. Web site: Daly . Eric Harry . James Davies .