As master of the good ship Resolution, Captain Cook encountered Norfolk Island in 1774. He was certainly impressed - because during his long and illustrious career, it was the only place he ever described as 'Paradise'. After a trip ashore, he noted the lofty pine trees and abundant vegetation. In those days, the island was uninhabited (except for some unique wildlife) and he named it after the Duchess of Norfolk. She must have been a remarkable woman indeed to deserve such an honour.