Hovenden Hely facts for kids

Hovenden Hely (born in 1823 – died on October 8, 1872) was an Australian explorer and a person involved in politics. He served as a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly for one term, from 1856 to 1857.

Hovenden Hely: Explorer and Politician

Early Life and Adventures

Hovenden Hely was the son of Frederick Augustus Hely, who was an Irish government official. Hovenden went to school at The King's School, Parramatta. After finishing school, he worked as a clerk in a government office.

In 1846 and 1847, Hovenden Hely joined an expedition led by Ludwig Leichhardt. During this trip, Hely faced some challenges and disagreements with Leichhardt. Later, in 1852, Hely was chosen to lead an official expedition to find Leichhardt, who had gone missing.

After 1841, Hely took care of his father's properties in the Brisbane Water area, including a place called Wyoming Cottage. When he turned 21, he inherited a part of these properties. He borrowed a lot of money, which he used to travel to England in 1858. Because of these debts, Hely faced financial difficulties in 1865.

A Time in Politics

In 1856, Hovenden Hely was chosen as one of three members for the area of Northumberland and Hunter. This was for the first New South Wales Legislative Assembly under a new system of government.

During his time in parliament, he was not very active or successful. He did not hold any special government positions. He also did not try to be re-elected in the next election in 1858.