If you’re not Australian or a fan of history, you might not be familiar with Ned Kelly. He was a bushranger back in the 1800s and is one of Australia’s most famous folk heros (or killers, depending on your perspective). Kelly officially became an outlaw in 1878 after he shot and killed three police officers. His eventual arrest involved a violent confrontation where Kelly appeared in a suit of homemade armor. So that bucket-thing on his head? Actually a helmet.
I know that Kelly is well-loved by many Australians and I really am fascinated by the history, but that armor… it’s just so comical. You can see the real stuff at the library in Melbourne (it’s pretty cool), or you can visit Big Ned Kelly at a gas station in Queensland.
Big Thing: Ned Kelly
Location: Maryborough, Queensland
Rating:
(for the historical connection)
I’ll admit, I err on the side of ‘killer’ perspective… but i do have a soft spot for that ridiculous armour!
He is definitely an odd choice for a folk hero, that’s for sure! I loved seeing his armor and an explanation of how it was made at the library. I just wouldn’t be able to take him seriously dressed that way in a showdown!