Leeman's Boat Landing

Statement of Significance

Leeman's Landing has historic significance as it represents the landing place of Dutch explorers
Abraham Leeman and crew from the Waeckende Boey, who came ashore in search of survivors from
the Vergulde Draeck prior to British settlement. The place has social significance as an example of the
local community's interest in maritime history and as a tourist site.

Physical Description

Memorial plaque erected in 1982 to celebrate a resurgence of public interest in early maritime activity
resulting in the publication of the book 'Marooned' by J. Henderson. Book was launched at this point
31/10/82. Overlooks Two Rocks Coastline. (Martinwick, p70). The limestone obelisk is located
overlooking the Indian Ocean on an elevated site at the end of Marcon Street to the south of the Two
Rocks townsite.

History

In March 1658, Abraham Leeman van Santwits, first officer and navigator of the Waeckende Boey
and thirteen sailors came ashore in the vicinity of Wanneroo Beach where they found wreckage from
the Vergulde Draeck but no sign of survivors. Unable to return to their ship because of bad weather,
and abandoned by Samuel Volkersen, the skipper of the Waeckende Boey, Leeman set sail for
Batavia in an overloaded open boat. He and three sailors survived the journey.
In 1982 a limestone obelisk was erected at the end of Marcon Street in recognition of Leeman's
Landing The plaque signifies the area where Leeman and his men came ashore. Twenty years before
the arrival of the British settlers, this region was visited by whalers as they followed the pods of
whales along the Western Australian coast.

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.