Captain Starlight
Readford became something of a national hero, and the character Captain Starlight in Rolf Boldrewood’s book Robbery Under Arms was based in part on his exploits.
Readford was one of two bushrangers known by the name of Captain Starlight, the other being Frank Pearson, who was known as Captain Starlight in 1868, twenty one years prior to the publication of the novel in 1889. Boldrewood himself claimed that the Captain Starlight character in his novel was a composite of several bushrangers, including Henry Readford, but that the primary inspiration was Thomas Smith, a bushranger known as Captain Midnight. The early chapters of Robbery Under Arms are based on Readford's exploits, and the final 'shoot out' follows the shooting and death of Midnight.
An annual Harry Redford Cattle Drive commemorates Readford's exploits as a drover. A range of riders from the city and country participate in this droving expedition, taking part for three days or up to three weeks, at their choice.
Read more about this topic: Captain Starlight
Famous quotes containing the words captain and/or starlight:
“Fear has nothing to do with cowardice. A fellow is only yellow when he lets his fear make him quit.”
—Jerome Cady, U.S. screenwriter, and Lewis Milestone. Captain Ross (Dana Andrews)
“While yet a boy I sought for ghosts, and sped
Through many a listening chamber, cave and ruin,
And starlight wood, with fearful steps pursuing
Hopes of high talk with the departed dead.”
—Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792–1822)