Francis Joseph Botting was born in London and trained as a builder.
He joined with his brother Frederick Henry Botting (c. 1810 – 1873) in constructing some of Adelaide's earliest buildings, including a merchant's office and warehouse, which later became the Blenheim Hotel, and the first wharf and wharf building in Port Adelaide, under architect Prescott.
Frank Botting died in November 1894, and his father became sole proprietor.
[5] Francis Joseph Botting (1819 – 10 July 1906) married Delia Sophia South (c. 1924 – 21 December 1894) in 1846.
His brother Frederick Henry Botting (c. 1810 – 31 January 1873), whose first wife died shortly after arrival, married Jane Stephens (c. 1823 – 2 October 1893) in 1846.