Life in London during the 18th century was grim for Elizabeth Haywood. She was just 13, but her life was already marred by crime and punishment. Apprenticed to a clog maker, she had a rough existence, but it was about to get harder.

Her master, Mr. Thomas Cross, was a stern man who cared little for her plight. He was more concerned with his profits than the welfare of his apprentice. Elizabeth resented him but had nowhere else to go.

One night, Elizabeth made a decision that would change her life. She stole a linen gown, a silk bonnet, and a bath cloak from her master, hoping to pawn them for money.

She sold her stolen goods to a woman named Sarah Phillips, who also went by Constance. Sarah was known for her dealings in the shady underbelly of London. Elizabeth was unaware of the danger she was stepping into.

It didn't take long for Mr. Cross to notice the missing items. The law took its course, and Elizabeth found herself facing the stern Middlesex jury at the Old Bailey.

In the courtroom, the jury didn't care about her age or circumstances. The verdict was harsh, and Elizabeth Haywood was sentenced to seven years transportation to the new colonies in Australia.

The journey on the ship Lady Penrhyn was arduous. Elizabeth, the youngest convict on board, had to endure harsh conditions, seasickness, and the constant fear of the unknown.

On January 26, 1788, they finally reached Sydney Cove, Australia. The night was hot and humid, and an electrical storm added to the fears of the new arrivals.

Elizabeth was assigned as a servant to Mary Johnson, the wife of Reverend Richard Johnson. Mary was kind-hearted, unlike Elizabeth’s previous master, and treated her with dignity.

Elizabeth's life in the Johnson household was challenging, but she managed. She did her chores, kept her head down, and tried to avoid trouble. But trouble, it seemed, had a way of finding her.

On February 9, 1788, an unknown incident occurred. Accused of insolence, Elizabeth was given 30 lashes as punishment. The harsh punishment left her physically and emotionally scarred.

As punishment for her insolence, Elizabeth was sent to Norfolk Island. She survived a shipwreck on the way to the island.

Elizabeth's life was not an easy one, but she refused to let it break her. Four years after she arrived on Norfolk Island, Elizabeth married fellow convict William Nicholls. Elizabeth had two surviving children, Margaret and George. Elizabeth faced adversity head-on and emerged stronger for it. Her story is one of survival, resilience, and strength.