Acknowledgment of History
Dobson Mitchell Allport and the Trustees of the Allport Bequest acknowledge the importance of truth telling in respect of Tasmania’s history.
Henry Allport (1890–1965) was a prominent Tasmanian lawyer and partner of Dobson Mitchell Allport. He was the second son of Morton John Cecil Allport, known as ‘Cecil’ (1858-1926) and his wife, Annie. Cecil became a partner of Dobson Mitchell Allport in 1886. Henry also became a partner of the firm in 1923. Henry’s elder brother, also named ‘Morton’, was killed in action in France during World War One.
We recognise that Cecil’s father and Henry Allport’s grandfather, lawyer and amateur naturalist Morton Allport (1830-1878), was involved in the trade of bodily remains of Tasmanian Aboriginal people – a practice recognised as being deeply abhorrent.
It is important to clarify that Morton Allport had no direct involvement in the establishment of Dobson Mitchell Allport nor was he employed with the legal practice. The history of Dobson Mitchell Allport is entirely separate from Morton Allport’s legacy and actions.
Similarly, the Allport Bequest, an act of generosity to the people of Tasmania made by Henry Allport in the 20th century, was independent of his grandfather’s life and choices. The Allport Bequest led to the creation of the Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts. This institution is dedicated to sharing and preserving Tasmania’s art, culture, and history, serving the community and supporting education.
Dobson Mitchell Allport and the Trustees of the Allport Bequest acknowledge the harm of these past actions and stand with the Palawa/Tasmanian Aboriginal people in recognising their enduring connection to land, culture and community.
