Thank you for attaching his death certificate. It actually states his place of birth was England however information on death certificates is only as accurate as the knowledge of the informant. Family stories can become distorted with the re-telling over the years but should never be ignored.
Transcriptions of death certificates are available in South Australia. About half the cost of a certified certificate and the information is the same.
If Edward was crew and jumped ship in South Australia, you will not find his name on any online passenger lists.
The Adelaide Office of the National Archives of Australia holds a variety of records relating to ship crews including deserters, discharges, and engagements from 1852.
Extensive information on ships and maritime history is also held by the State Library of South Australia.
Perhaps work from facts you know to be true. This is his marriage and the certificate would assist you with your research.
Marriage with mistranscribed surname.
7623/1886
HAMMEN Edward
RICKARD Mary A
District Silverton
If you wish to purchase a transcription of their marriage from an accredited transcription agent[cheaper than the certified certificate] I think you need to order using the mistranscribed name on the index but the registration number would bring up the correct registration anyway. I am more familiar with Vic records.
http://www.bdm.nsw.gov.au/familyHistory/howToTraceYouFamTree.htm#TranscriptionAgent
Cando
This would cost c$18 and his parents' names, age, place of birth should be detailed.
Information on Marriage Certificates in New South Wales
*Bridegroom's full name, occupation, place of residence, conjugal status, place and date of birth, age, father's name and mother's maiden name
*Bride's full name, occupation, place of residence, conjugal status, place and date of birth, age, father's name and mother's maiden name
*Celebrant's name and witnesses
Cheers
Cando
