Alfred Street, In Front Of Customs HouseThe First Boat Built At Sydney Cove
On October 5th 1789, the first boat was built on the shore of Circular Quay. It was known as the “Rose Hill Packet” or “The Lump”. She was built by R. Reed, Carpenter of the HMAS Supply.
Officers on the brig “Supply” on January 26th 17888 included Robinson Reed (or Reid), Master Carpenter. On 25th November James Davis, Seaman, was accused by Mr Reed of treating him disrespectfully. Davis was found guilty and sentenced to receive 400 lashes of the Cat - O - Nine - Tails.
In December 1788 Captain Collins recorded that
“Mr Reid, The Carpenter of the HMAS Supply, now undertook the construction of a boat house on the east side, for the purpose of buildings, with the timber of this country, to launch or how capable of being employed in conveying provisions to Rose Hill, and for other useful & necessary purposes.
