Daniel Herbert (convict)

Daniel Herbert (c. 1802–1868), a Tasmanian convict, was a skilled stonemason who, with co-convict James Colbeck, oversaw the building of the Ross Bridge and embellished it with interesting and satirical carvings.

The bridge was designed by John Lee Archer, while Herbert oversaw construction with James Colbeck, the other convict stonemason chosen for the job.

Various interpretations of their curious motifs have been put forward, including claims that the many carved heads were portraits of Herbert and his wife, eccentric Norwegian convict and explorer Jørgen Jørgensen, Lieutenant-Governor (Sir) George Arthur and other colonial officials and local personalities.

Despite being promised a conditional pardon for successfully completing the task, Herbert asked to be allowed to remain three weeks longer in Hobart to marry Mary Witherington, which he did on 1 July 1835.

Daniel Herbert also carved the sundial at Royal Botanic Gardens in Hobart, commissioned by superintendent William Davidson.