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October History Talk at Bathurst Library

Of all the major events in bushranging history, the Bathurst Rebellion led by the Ribbon Gang is one of the most significant, yet least talked about.

In 1830 a convict uprising around Bathurst rocked the fledgling colony. The Ribbon
Boys, named after the Irish secret society, the Ribbon Men, roved the countryside
liberating prisoners as they went and leading them inland towards freedom.

Who were the Ribbon Boys? To find out more, join author Jeanette M Thompson at
Bathurst Library for the History Talk: On the Trail of the Ribbon Boys, where she will
discuss her book Bone and Beauty: The Ribbon Boys Rebellion.

Rich with detail, Bone and Beauty fuses archival evidence and narrative technique to
tell the gripping story of the Ribbon Boys and their reputed leader Ralph Entwistle.
For the first time, the influence of Irish secret societies, the scale of oppression and
corruption, and the complex web of criminal and family relationships behind these
events are revealed.

Until now, this story has not been thoroughly documented. “These men are not the
victors of history, or people who had the power to write their own histories. Their
stories have now been revisited and brought back to life” says Manager Library
Services, Patou Clerc.

Bone and Beauty grew out of Jeanette’s research into Australian colonial history and
creative nonfiction writing. Copies of the book will be available for purchase.

This free event is on Friday 28 October 6pm at Bathurst Library, 70-78 Keppel Street.
Spaces are limited. Call Bathurst Library on 6333 6281 or email
library@bathurst.nsw.gov.au to book a spot.

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