Born Sunderland Durham England. He joined HMS Sirius 28 October 1786 at Deptford, Crew Number 31, aged 26 years.

Robert was stranded on Norfolk Island, mustered on 20 March 1790 on Norfolk Island after the shipwreck.

In February 1791, James returned to Sydney aboard HMAT Supply and disembarked on 26 February 1791.

Robert then embarked on the Dutch vessel Waaksamheid for England.

He died at sea 14 November 1791, after writing his will on 1 November 1791.

Reference: TNA, Probate 31 May 1792, PROB 11/1218/295.