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Biography
As the founder of Penang, Captain Francis Light marks the start of an important
milestone that transformed this tiny island into a place with growing prosperity. It
was the magnificent journey of one man that makes Penang well known not only for
its beauty & heritage but also economic powerhouse.
Born in an Ancient Town Woodbridge at County Suffolk England, the actual birth
date of "Light" was unknown but his Baptism date was recorded at 15 Dec 1740. He
stays with his mother Mary Light & father William Negus when he was young. His
grandfather, Colonel F. Light is respected & reputable man and was once a drinking
companion of King George.
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"Light" Grave in the compound of the St.
George's Anglican Church
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He was educated in Seckford's Grammer School, Woodbridge under Reverend
Thomas Ray and entered Navy soon after finished his education. On 1759, Light
board HMS Captain as midshipman and subsequently transferred to HMS Dragon &
HMS Arrogant in 1761. His tenure in Navy ended on 1763.
He later sailed to Madras, India to take control of trade for the British. There, he
secure command of a "Country Ship" (owned in India and engaged in trade in
Eastern waters) belonging to Madras firm of merchants, Jourdain, Sullivan & Desouza.
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Captain Light was later posted to Kedah to
overlook the trade at the region. In 1786,
Francis Light take possession of Penang
after he promise Kedah that he will supply
forces to defend them from their enemies.
Light married Martina Rozells, by whom he
had 3 daughters and 2 sons. He met his
Eurasian wife during his trade mission in
Phuket.
His eldest son, William Light, became the
first Surveyor General of Southern Australia
and founder of the city of Adelaide.
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Compound of the St
George's Anglican Church
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Francis Light died from malaria attack on 21 October 1794 and was cremated at St.
George's Anglican Church in Penang.
More in-depth story can be found at Fort Cornwallis & Penang Museum. Do give this
place a visit.
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Return from Francis Light to Penang History
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Return from Francis Light to Penang Vacations (Home Page)
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