Launceston Historical Society: "Harlequin Bob"

Next date: Sunday, 15 February 2026 | 02:00 PM

Sophie Appleby presents:

"Harlequin Bob" - The "chequered and eventful" life of convict Robert Cowburn

Sophie’s presentation will explore the "chequered and eventful" life of early convict and ancestor Robert "Harlequin Bob" Cowburn, a cotton spinner from Lancaster, England.

In 1819, Robert was convicted of larceny and sentenced to seven years’ transportation. His arrival in Van Diemen's Land set off a series of events that would see his escapades live on for generations in Tasmanian folklore.

What began as a routine ancestor search has evolved into a six-year journey to unravel the myths, truths, and lies of Harlequin Bob’s mysterious life. Was he a British soldier? A constable on the Black Line? A bushranger? A murderer? Or just a manipulative storyteller?

Either way, in the words of his obituary, "were his life written, as he himself has frequently said, it would ‘a tale unfold’."

About the presenters:

Sophie Appleby is a Heritage Officer for the City of Launceston, as well as a writer and multidisciplinary artist. She is the Vice-President of the Launceston Historical Society and the President of the Book Council of Lutruwita/Tasmania.

A sixth-generation Tasmanian, her interest in family history began over a decade ago when she embarked on a search for belonging and reconnection to her Scottish and Irish heritage.

She hopes to share her passion for Tasmanian history and inspire a new generation of historical researchers through the creative arts, community projects, and social media.

Details

Admission: FREE for Launceston Historical Society members, $5 for the general public.

www.launcestonhistory.org.au

When

Location

Meeting Room, Queen Victoria Museum at Inveresk, 2 Invermay Road, Launceston, 7250, View Map