James Raymond

James Raymond (c. 1786–1851), the first postmaster-general in New South Wales, came to Sydney in 1826, his fortunes having declined in Ireland, where he was said to have been a landowner and magistrate. As a result of some networking, Governor Darling was asked to provide Raymond with a suitable colonial appointment and allowance. Raymond, his wife, Aphrasia, and nine of their ten children were given free passage on the Thames and on arrival he was made coroner in Parramatta. Soon he found his income insufficient to maintain his large family; Governor Darling increased his allowance, but the Colonial Office instructed him to withdraw the addition. Although doubts as to his competency were raised, when the postmaster died in 1829 Raymond was appointed to his position at a salary of £400. As postmaster, he suggested the world's first pre-paid postage using stamped sheets as envelopes, which was adopted in Sydney in 1838. The innovation was discontinued in 1852 after the introduction of adhesive stamps to Australia. Living with his family at Varroville, near Campbelltown, Raymond entertained regularly and was a keen racegoer, owning several racehorses. He and his wife went on to have two more daughters and their eldest son emigrated to Australia in 1837. In 1835, Raymond's title was changed to postmaster-general and his salary increased to £650 before he died at the age of 65.

Gift of Lydia Raymond Day 2010. Donated through the Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program.