Published on Tuesday, 4 August 2026 at 11:40:11 AM
Pirates, spies, explorers and navigators feature in a new book tracing Albany’s earliest chapter, to be launched at Albany Town Hall on Friday, 28 August 2026.
Written by award-winning author and historian John Dowson, Early Albany traces the region’s history from 1595 to around 1890, combining extensive historical research, striking imagery and accessible storytelling across 208 pages.
The book explores Albany’s early coastal encounters with pirates, spies, explorers and navigators, as well as major maritime expeditions, reflecting a period when European visitors approached Menang Country almost exclusively from the sea.
The publication follows Mr Dowson’s acclaimed 2008 book Old Albany, which covered the period from 1850 to 1950.
John Dowson said 3,000 hours of new research allowed him to look deeper into Albany's really early history. He even found a copy of Albany's rarest book, one the State Library doesn't even have.
“With Early Albany, I wanted to go further back than I did with Old Albany, which was largely a photographic history from 1858 to 1950. A key focus is the admirably amicable relationships between the Menang and early visitors and early settlers, bringing together the people, voyages and events that connected Albany with the wider world."
“The stories of the sailors, navigators and explorers are extraordinary. They crossed immense distances in difficult conditions and were very keen to learn as much as possible about Australia and the local Menang. Their journals and artworks offer a fascinating way to understand Albany’s place in maritime history.”
Mayor Greg Stocks said Early Albany would be an important addition to the historical record of Albany and the wider region.
“The City is proud to support this impressive publication which brings together rigorous research, and engaging storytelling to illuminate the many layers of Albany’s early history,” he said.
The free launch event will feature a conversation with Mr Dowson about the stories behind the book, followed by the official launch by Scott Leary MLA, book sales and signings. Registration is essential.
Mr Dowson will also present an author talk at Albany Public Library at 10am on Saturday, 29 August, followed by a book signing at Paperbark Merchants.
The publication has been supported by the City of Albany through the Albany 2026 program, with the City serving as a project partner.
Bookings can be made on this website.
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