William Allard was born at Badsey in 1811, the eldest of nine children of William and Mary Allard. He was baptised in St James’ Church on 10th September 1811. His life changed dramatically as the result of an incident which occurred at his grandfather’s house in Pebworth on the night of 17th January 1831. As a consequence, he and his friend, Thomas Bennett, were transported to Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania) later that year.
The full, sorry story may be found in the article, BENNETT, John (1808-1831) & Thomas (1811-1860); ALLARD, William (1811-1885) – Hanged and transported.