Captain Matthew Flinders Original Documents

Original Documents on the Expedition to Recover the Lost Anchors of Captain Matthew Flinders

Introduction

The HMS Investigator Anchors have a captivating backstory as significant historical artifacts. Captain Matthew Flinders cast these two anchors adrift from the HMS Investigator on Saturday, May 21, 1803. He took this action to prevent the vessel from running aground on Middle Island in the Archipelago of the Recherche, now part of Western Australia.

Discovery and Ownership Dispute

In 1973, members of the Underwater Explorers Club of South Australia (UEC) located and salvaged these anchors. Their discovery sparked a dispute over ownership involving South Australia and Western Australia. Both sides argued about the historical significance of these anchors as artifacts from a significant European exploration voyage.

Eventually, the Australian Government took ownership of the anchors. They then gifted one anchor to the South Australian Government. Today, people refer to these two artifacts as “Flinders’ Anchors.”

Historical Context of the HMS Investigator

The HMS Investigator had five bower, two stream, and two kedge anchors before departing from the United Kingdom for Terra Australis in early 1801. The ship’s stores sent to Port Jackson included an additional bower anchor.

The Voyage to Port Jackson

The Investigator embarked from Kupang in Timor on April 8, 1803, aiming to reach Port Jackson. The primary objectives included seeking medical assistance for crew members suffering from dysentery and fever and repairing the sloop. Captain Flinders also intended to stop at the Archipelago of the Recherche to procure geese for the ill crew members, obtain seal oil for lamps, and secure a few casks of salt from Middle Island’s lake.

The Archipelago of the Recherche Incident

Upon arriving at the Archipelago of the Recherche on May 17, 1803, the Investigator anchored on the north side of Middle Island in Goose Island Bay. During this visit, the crew buried the sloop’s boatswain, Charles Douglas, who had passed away on May 18, 1803.

The Lost Anchors

On May 21, 1803, Captain Flinders recognized the risk of the Investigator running aground on Middle Island due to a strengthening breeze. To prevent this, Flinders used the sloop’s spare anchors to secure its position. Unfortunately, the best bower anchor, a stream anchor, and a length of cable had to be left behind. Flinders intended to return for them later as the Investigator continued its voyage to Port Jackson.

Legacy of the Anchors

These anchors bear witness to Captain Matthew Flinders’ challenges and decisions during his exploration. They add another layer of historical intrigue to his legacy.