Charles Tompson, Australian poet and public servant (b. 1806)

An Insight into Charles Tompson: Australia's Pioneering Poet and Public Servant

Charles Tompson (26 June 1807 – 5 January 1883) stands as a significant figure in early Australian colonial history, celebrated primarily for his dual role as a dedicated public servant and, notably, as the individual widely recognised as Australia's first published native-born poet. His life bridged the nascent literary landscape of the colony with its evolving administrative structures, leaving a distinct mark on both.

Early Life and Convict Heritage

Born in Sydney in 1807, Charles Tompson was the eldest child of Charles Tompson (c. 1784–1871), a farmer, and Elizabeth (née Boggis). His family background was typical of many early Australian settlers, rooted in the convict system that defined the colony's origins. His father, Charles Tompson senior, had been convicted at Warwick, England, in March 1802 and subsequently transported to New South Wales, arriving aboard the vessel Coromandel in May 1804. This heritage, while common, provided a unique backdrop to young Charles's upbringing and subsequent achievements within a society still grappling with its foundational identity.

Education and Literary Beginnings

Tompson junior received his education at Henry Fulton's school in Castlereagh. Henry Fulton, an Irish Protestant clergyman, played a role in the colony's early educational efforts, and his school would have provided Tompson with a grounding in classical and practical subjects, preparing him for a career in the emerging colonial administration. After his schooling, Tompson entered the New South Wales public service, a common and respected career path for educated young men in the colony.

"Wild Notes": A Landmark in Australian Literature

In 1826, at the remarkably young age of 20, Charles Tompson achieved a seminal milestone in Australian literary history with the publication of his poetry collection, Wild Notes, from the Lyre of a Native Minstrel. This volume, published under the name Charles Tompson, jun., holds the distinction of being the first collection of verse by an Australian-born individual to be published within Australia itself. The title's "Native Minstrel" refers to his status as someone born in the colony, distinguishing him from poets who had emigrated to Australia. While literary critics often consider the poems within the collection as "juvenilia" – works produced in youth that may lack mature artistry – they undeniably possess historical merit. Their primary significance lies not only in their artistic qualities but, more importantly, in their pioneering status, marking the true commencement of a distinct Australian literary voice. Despite his significant early contribution, the bulk of Tompson's later verse and prose writings were never collected into a single volume, remaining largely scattered in various publications.

Later Literary Contributions and Public Service Shifts

Although his primary poetic volume was published early, Tompson continued to engage with literature. A notable example is his poem Australia. A Translation of the Latin Prize Poem of S. Smith, a Student of Hyde Abbey School, Winchester, which appeared in the Sydney Gazette on 17 December 1829. The Sydney Gazette was the first newspaper published in Australia, serving as a vital communication channel in the early colony. This particular poem was also issued shortly thereafter as a two-page pamphlet, which is now exceptionally rare and highly valued by collectors of Australiana.

Tompson's personal life saw him marry Hannah Morris at St Matthew's Church in Windsor on 12 April 1830. St Matthew's, designed by the notable colonial architect Francis Greenway, remains a significant historical landmark. By 1831, Tompson and his wife were residing in Kent Street, Sydney, where he had taken up a position as a clerk in the colonial secretary's office. This role was central to the administration of the colony. He remained in this position until 1836, when he relocated to Doon Moor Cottage in Penrith to serve as a clerk of petty sessions, a position involving the administration of minor legal matters. He later held a similar clerical post in Camden.

Distinguished Service in the Legislative Council

Charles Tompson's career in public service continued to ascend. He was appointed as the third clerk in the Legislative Council of New South Wales, an integral part of the colony's burgeoning parliamentary system. His dedication and competence led to further promotions, eventually culminating in his prestigious appointment as Clerk of Parliaments in the Legislative Council. In 1860, his distinguished service was further recognised when he became the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly. In these senior parliamentary roles, Tompson was responsible for managing the legislative process, record-keeping, and providing procedural advice to members. He earned the respect and affection of members, who widely regarded him as a courteous and obliging officer, indicative of his professional conduct and interpersonal skills. Charles Tompson retired on a well-earned pension on 31 January 1869 and passed away in Sydney on 5 January 1883, leaving behind a legacy both in public administration and as a pioneer of Australian literature.

Legacy and Key Contributions

Charles Tompson's significance lies in his unique position at the intersection of early Australian public life and its emerging literary identity. His "Wild Notes" established a foundational moment for Australian-born literary voices, while his extensive career in the colonial public service, particularly in the legislative bodies, helped shape the administrative framework of New South Wales. He represents an important bridge between the convict origins of the colony and its development into a self-governing entity with its own cultural expressions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Charles Tompson

Who was Charles Tompson?

Charles Tompson was a notable Australian public servant and poet, recognised as the first Australian-born poet to have a volume of work published in Australia.

What was Charles Tompson's most famous work?

His most historically significant work is "Wild Notes, from the Lyre of a Native Minstrel," published in 1826, which is considered the first volume of verse by an Australian-born poet published in the colony.

What was Tompson's career in public service?

Charles Tompson had a distinguished career in the New South Wales public service, progressing through roles such as clerk in the colonial secretary's office, clerk of petty sessions, and ultimately serving as Clerk of Parliaments in the Legislative Council and Clerk of the Legislative Assembly.

Why is "Wild Notes" important to Australian literature?

"Wild Notes" is crucial because it marks the very beginning of a distinct Australian-born poetic tradition. It demonstrated that literary works could be conceived and published by individuals native to the Australian colonies, laying a cornerstone for future Australian literary development.

Was Charles Tompson connected to the convict system?

Yes, Charles Tompson's father, also named Charles Tompson, was a convicted individual who was transported to Australia, arriving in 1804. This background was common in early colonial Australia and formed part of Tompson's family history.