Dadswell Family History

Welcome!

This Dadswell family history website contains short histories of a number of Dadswells (families or individuals) who migrated from Britain to Australia - particularly those who made the journey in the 1800s or early 1900s - and their ancestors.

The story of the early English Dadswell generations is common to all family members. But over time, separate families emerged and some of these migrated to Australia, creating new stories. To read about these people, see Dadswell Family History.

Historic information

  Robert Doudeswell and some Australian descendants
  Origins of the Dadswell name
  Index of names on this website

Family feature stories

  Index of family feature stories

1 January 2025
James Perry Violin

When Thomas and Helena Dadswell migrated to Australia in 1857, their baggage contained contained a 1783 violin crafted by Irish luthier James Perry. During the three-month voyage, Thomas is thought to have handcrafted two additional violins, using the Perry instrument as a prototype. The original Perry violin is one of only seven known surviving violins produced by the luthier. Details.

31 December 2023
Red Cliffs beginnings, part two

After growing grapes at Red Cliffs, the Dadswells faced serious financial losses as the price of dried fruit plummeted and the rigours of the Depression years emerged. But there were also good times, as well as the chance to successfully raise a family of five children. This second instalment describes more of the Dadswell experiences. Details.