The discovery of Ned Kelly’s helmet in Australia’s Wombat State Forest has reignited debate about the legendary bushranger’s life and legacy. The helmet is believed to be the one Kelly wore at the siege of Glenrowan in 1880. The siege was the climax of Kelly’s career as a bushranger, and ended in his capture and execution. Kelly’s armor made of ploughshares was designed to protect him from police bullets, with the helmet becoming an iconic symbol of his defiance. The helmet is considered an important artifact of Kelly’s legacy and a significant piece of Australian history.
Introduction
Ned Kelly is a name that resonates with many Australians. He was a legendary bushranger who lived in the late 19th century and became an icon of Australian folk culture. Recently, his helmet was found in remote Australian bushland, and it has caused quite a stir in the country. In this article, we will delve into the significance of this discovery and what it means for the legacy of Ned Kelly.
The Discovery of the Helmet
The helmet was discovered by a group of hikers in the Wombat State Forest, about 65 miles northwest of Melbourne. The helmet was buried in a shallow hole, and it is believed to have been there for over 100 years. The hikers reported their discovery to the police, who then contacted the State Library of Victoria, which manages the Ned Kelly archive. The helmet was then handed over to the library, where it underwent a series of tests and examinations.
The Significance of the Helmet
The helmet is significant because it is believed to be the one worn by Ned Kelly during the siege at Glenrowan in June 1880. The siege was the climax of Kelly’s career as a bushranger, and it ended in his capture and subsequent execution. During the siege, Kelly and his gang wore homemade suits of armor, which they believed would protect them from the police bullets. The armor was made of ploughshares and was extremely heavy, but it did provide some protection. The helmet was a crucial part of the armor, and it has become an iconic symbol of Kelly’s defiance.
The helmet was not the only one worn by Kelly during the siege. It is believed that he had several helmets made, and he gave them to members of his gang. However, the one found in the bushland is believed to be the only one that has survived. It is a significant piece of Australian history and an important artifact of Kelly’s legacy.
The Controversy over Kelly’s Legacy
Ned Kelly is a controversial figure in Australian history. Some Australians view him as a heroic figure who defied the authorities and stood up for the underdog. Others view him as a murderer and a criminal who deserved his fate. The discovery of the helmet has reignited the debate over Kelly’s legacy, with some calling for a reassessment of his character and others dismissing the helmet as a symbol of criminality.
FAQs
Q. Who was Ned Kelly?
A. Ned Kelly was a legendary bushranger who lived in the late 19th century in Australia. He became an icon of Australian folk culture due to his defiance of the authorities.
Q. Why is the discovery of his helmet significant?
A. The helmet is significant because it is believed to be the one worn by Kelly during the siege at Glenrowan, which was the climax of his career as a bushranger.
Q. What is the controversy over Kelly’s legacy?
A. Kelly is a controversial figure in Australian history, with some viewing him as a hero and others as a criminal. The discovery of the helmet has reignited the debate over his legacy.
Conclusion
The discovery of Ned Kelly’s helmet is an important event in Australian history. It has reignited the debate over his legacy and has provided a window into the past. The helmet is a significant piece of Australian history, and it is hoped that it will be preserved for future generations to appreciate. Whatever your opinion of Kelly may be, there is no denying that he remains an iconic figure in Australian history.
