Ellen Thomson: Beyond a Reasonable Doubt?

by Vashti Farrer

Only one woman has been executed under Queensland Law:

Tropical Queensland was alive with gold rush excitement when a young widow moved to the new township of Port Douglas. Author Vashti Farrer opens the door on a colonial world, and hard pioneering lives in a coastal paradise. This illustrated book describes the men in Ellen Thomson's life, including the husband she was blamed for killing. It follows her agonising trial and surprising punishment as well as the roles of Aborigines, Chinese settlers, policemen, Ellen's children, and a judge whose mind was made up. This riveting true story leaves readers wondering if justice was done.

136 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[N · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Masterpiece of Historical Research:
Vashti Farrer’s Beyond a Reasonable Doubt is a meticulously researched and deeply moving account of a significant moment in Australian legal history. As someone with a deep interest in the life of Ellen Thomson, I found Farrer’s attention to detail and her commitment to uncovering the truth of the trial archives to be unparalleled.
Beyond her skill as a writer, the author is incredibly generous with her knowledge and time, helping researchers navigate the complex layers of this tragic case. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the nuances of justice and the power of historical investigative work.

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I wished there had been more analysis of the reasons why the law 'had to take its course' in this singular case (and not in any other cases in qld), it was a well researched and interesting read. The middle section was a bit hard going with all the verbatim testimony but in a research context I imagine that would have been very useful. Such a clear snapshot into Australian life and society in the period.