Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Convict Girls' Bravery Sparks Feminism, Exonerates Them

5/12/2025

50 7

Summary

Story summary

In 1834, convict girls Mary Maloney and Sarah McGregor bravely stood against Captain Charles Waldron's advances, resulting in his mysterious death. Initially charged with murder and facing execution, new evidence revealed he died of natural causes. Their survival not only spared their lives but also positioned them as early icons of feminism in Australia.

1 of 1

Story summary

In 1834, convict girls Mary Maloney and Sarah McGregor bravely stood against Captain Charles Waldron's advances, resulting in his mysterious death. Initially charged with murder and facing execution, new evidence revealed he died of natural causes. Their survival not only spared their lives but also positioned them as early icons of feminism in Australia.