James Squire cultivates hops at Kissing Point (1806)

James Squire, a First Fleet convict, is credited with the first successful cultivation of hops in Australia. While he began brewing beer in 1790, his successful hop cultivation occurred in 1806 after three seasons of effort. He presented hop vines to Governor King in March 1806, who rewarded him for their quality. This achievement established Squire as a significant figure in early colonial agriculture and brewing.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. James Squire was convicted of stealing in 1785 and transported to Australia as a convict on the First Fleet in 1788. On emancipation he was granted 30 acres at Eastern Farms (Kissing Point) on 22 July 1795. He stated at the Bigge inquiry in 1820 that he had been brewing for 30 years, making beer from hops he obtained from the Daedalus. By 1806 his estate stretched across approximately 881 acres, and he was nicknamed the 'Patriarch of Kissing Point', operating 'The Malting Shovel' Tavern on the shores of Parramatta River in the Eastern Farm district.

Hop Cultivation. Squire is credited with the first successful cultivation of hops in Australia around the start of the 19th century. After three seasons of toil, he successfully cultivated the first Australian hops in 1806. A detailed article in the Sydney Gazette from January to June 1805 described the process of hop cultivation in great detail, highlighting his efforts during this period.

Recognition. On 11 March 1806, Squire attended Government House with two vines of hops taken from his grounds. Governor King was pleased with the flavour and quality of the hops, directing that a cow be given to Squire from the Government herd. This recognition underscored the significance of his agricultural achievement in the colony.

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Sources

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