Hornung, E.W. (Ernest William), 1866-1921

Ernest William (Willie) Hornung (1866-1921) was born on 7 June 1866, the son of John Peter Hornung, a Hungarian, who had settled in Middlesbrough. E. W. Hornung's education began at Dame School, the life at which is portrayed in his book 'Young Blood'. From there he proceded to St Ninian's, Moffat. He was one of the nine boys with which the school was opened at Easter 1879 by A. J. C. Dowding and Rev W. H. Churchill. In 1880 Hornung went to Uppingham whilst the famous Edward Thring was still headmaster. Hornung remained there until 1883 where his literary talents developed and he took a keen interest in the school magazine. He then went to Australia where he remained until 1886 and it was here that he began his literary writings and this country inspired his early adventure novels. Whilst in Australia he lived rough and wrote many stories before he had the courage to submit them to editors. All the time, however, he was gaining local colour for his novels which, like 'Raffles', made him famous. His Australian novels include 'A Bride from the Bush' published in 1899, 'The Belle of Toorak' and 'Stingaree'.

Hornung was a keen motorist, had a lifelong interest in cricket and was a great supporter of the public school system. These interests are reflected in his literary works. Hornung was a recognised authority on cricket and he was an enthusiastic player although he did suffer from asthma and short sight. Although Hornung is perhaps best known for his 'Raffles' stories about the gentleman burglar, 'Fathers of Men', his story of Uppingham, has been considered by many, including Rudyard Kipling, to be his finest work.

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