William, Colonel Light Paintings

William Light, commonly known as Colonel Light, was a British military officer and a prominent figure in Australian history, particularly known for his role in the founding and designing of Adelaide, South Australia. Born in 1786 in Kuala Kedah, Malaya (now Malaysia), Light was the son of Captain Francis Light, the British governor and founder of the British colony in Penang, and Martina Rozells, who was of Portuguese or French descent. His multicultural background and early experiences in Southeast Asia would later influence his approach to exploration and city planning.

In his early years, Light pursued a military career, serving in the Royal Navy before transferring to the British Army. He participated in various military campaigns, including the Peninsular War against Napoleon's forces. His service was marked by a keen understanding of military tactics and an appreciation for strategic planning, skills that would prove invaluable in his later career.

After his military service, Light became interested in the colonization efforts in Australia. In 1836, he was appointed as the first Surveyor-General of the newly formed colony of South Australia by the South Australian Company. Tasked with selecting the capital's site, Light chose the location for Adelaide, setting the foundation for its development. He employed a visionary approach to urban design, incorporating wide streets in a grid pattern surrounded by parklands. This design aimed to prevent the spread of fire, a common threat at the time, and to allow for easy navigation and expansion of the city. His innovative planning principles are evident in Adelaide's layout today, reflecting his lasting impact on urban design.

Despite his significant contributions, Light faced opposition and criticism from some settlers and officials, who questioned his decisions and authority. Nevertheless, he continued his work on the survey and planning of Adelaide until his health declined. William Light's legacy endures in the city he designed, and he is remembered as a pioneering figure in Australian urban planning. He died in 1839 in Adelaide, leaving behind a city that would grow to embody his visionary ideals. Adelaide's Light Square is one of the city's prominent landmarks, serving as a tribute to his contributions and his enduring influence on the city's development.