George Washington of Van Diemen's Land

This rather grand title was preferred by one Anthony Fenn Kemp after whom the village of Kempton was named.  Having spent some time in America, he developed great admiration for Washington, however Kemp was better known as 'the Father of Tasmania'.

This he achieved by siring 18 children, many of whom married into the upper echelons of colonial society.  However, Kemp has many other claims to fame.  In England, he had been a shipping agent, a pawnbroker, a wine merchant and the bankrupt father of three illegitimate children.  His life in New South Wales and subsequently Van Diemen's Land was no less eventful. 

Kemp was the ultimate political opportunist who was present at some of the most important milestones in the colony's development. Originally a Rum Corps Officer who rose to the ranks of 'Captain', he was at the centre of the Rum Rebellion; he infuriated the French, implying that a peaceful scientific expedition in Bass Strait was a precursor to a claim of territory, and was the undoing of several Governors who were on the receiving end of his malicious tongue.  

Kemp's earlier experience as a purveyor of wine and spirits was a recurring theme.  By 1820, Kemp controlled more than 80% of the spirits landed in Hobart, and the duty on those spirits provided more than half the colony's income. He even had his own football team! 

Kemp's residence, 'Mount Vernon' (named after George Washington's home) still stands as testament to the wealth and success of this complex man.  The now private property can still be seen from the Heritage Highway set well back from the road on the outskirts of Kempton.  Look for the name at the entrance. 

Anthony Fenn Kemp's extraordinary adventures are featured in Nicholas Shakespeare's recent, popular novel, In Tasmania.