Isaac Nichols

Isaac Nichols (1770–1819) was an English-born convict transported to New South Wales on the Third Fleet in 1790 for stealing. He became a prominent figure in early Australia, working under Governor Hunter as chief overseer of convicts and later receiving 50 acres of land and two assigned convicts after his sentence expired in 1797. In 1799, he was convicted of receiving stolen goods but received a pardon by 1802. He established a successful business, including a shipyard and an inn, and played a role in the Rum Rebellion of 1808, siding with the military junta led by George Johnston. Nichols was appointed as the first postmaster of New South Wales in 1809, overseeing mail distribution from his house in The Rocks. Despite earlier conflicts with colonial authorities, he gained respect and became a supplier of meat to government stores.

Nichols married twice, fathering three sons: Isaac David, George Robert, and Charles Hamilton, who pursued notable careers in law and politics. He was respected by leading figures in the colony until his death in 1819. His legacy is marked by his contributions to early Australian infrastructure and postal services.