Charles Dight (Australian businessman) facts for kids
Charles Hilton Dight (born 1813 – died 1852) was an important person in early Victoria (Australia). He was a miller, meaning he operated a flour mill, and he also became a politician. He was a member of the first ever Victorian Legislative Council.
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Charles Dight's Early Life and Family
Charles Dight was born in 1813 near a place called Richmond, New South Wales. His father, John Dight, was a surgeon and a farmer. Charles and his brother, John, started farming land near Albury in New South Wales around 1837.
Later, the Dight family moved to Melbourne. In 1838, Charles's father bought some land. Over the next few years, he built a brick mill on this land. This mill was used to make flour.
The Famous Ceres Mill
The mill was named Ceres, after the Roman goddess of agriculture. It was located at a place now known as Dights Falls. Charles and his brother John took over ownership of the mill in 1843.
The Ceres mill was very special! Not only did it produce flour, but it also had small machines called dynamos. These dynamos used the power of the water to create electricity. This made the Ceres mill the very first hydro-electric power plant in Victoria!
Charles Dight's Role in Politics
Charles Dight was interested in helping his community. In 1851, he became the vice-president of the Port Phillip Farmers' Society. This group helped farmers in the area.
In November 1851, Charles Dight was chosen to be a member of the first Victorian Legislative Council. This was like being a member of parliament today. He represented the area called North Bourke. He served in this important role until he passed away on October 9, 1852, when he was 38 years old. He died at Yarra Falls.
Dight Family in Politics
Charles Dight was married to Emma Maria, and they had several children. His family had a history of being involved in politics. His brother, Arthur, was also a politician. Arthur was elected to the New South Wales Legislative Assembly.
Even Charles's nephew, who was also named Charles Hilton, followed in his footsteps. This nephew was later elected to the New South Wales Legislative Assembly as well.
