Fresh evidence has emerged in the search for descendants of Australia’s little-known overseas settlement on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. The Cocos Islands are a group of 27 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, located about 2,100 kilometers northwest of Perth, Western Australia. The islands were settled by the Clunies-Ross family in the early 19th century, and later became a British territory in 1955.
The Cocos Islands were an important trading post in the 19th century, and the Clunies-Ross family became wealthy by exporting coconut products. The family ruled the islands as a private fiefdom until they were purchased by the British Government in 1955. The Clunies-Ross family continued to live on the islands until the 1970s, when they sold their remaining land to the Australian Government.
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the history of the Cocos Islands, and in particular, the descendants of the original settlers. A recent study conducted by genealogist Lyndall Ryan has shed new light on the descendants of the original settlers. Ryan’s study found that many of the descendants of the Clunies-Ross family and other early settlers still live on the islands, and have a strong connection to their heritage.
Ryan’s study also found that there are many descendants of other early settlers who have left the islands and are now living elsewhere in Australia and around the world. Ryan believes that there are likely many more descendants of the early settlers who are not aware of their heritage, and hopes that her research will help to connect these individuals with their ancestors.
The search for descendants of the Cocos Islands settlers has been made more difficult by the fact that many of the early settlers were of mixed race. The islands were a melting pot of cultures and nationalities, and the descendants of the early settlers can have a wide range of physical features and cultural backgrounds.
Despite these challenges, there has been a growing interest in the history of the Cocos Islands, and in particular, the descendants of the early settlers. Ryan’s study has provided fresh evidence that there are still many individuals who have a strong connection to the islands, and who are proud of their heritage.
In conclusion, the search for descendants of Australia’s little-known overseas settlement on the Cocos Islands continues to be a fascinating and important topic of research. With the help of genealogists like Lyndall Ryan, it is likely that many more individuals will be able to connect with their heritage and learn more about the history of this unique and remote part of Australia.
