Horses as an integral part of the fabric of early Norfolk Island life

Horses as an integral part of the fabric of early Norfolk Island life - How can we put ourselves into the shoes of 104 children under the age of 16, seeing, for the very first time, four-legged creatures on rugged hillsides? They had never seen a horse before, let alone ridden one. It was in 1856 that our community of 194 people arrived here in Norfolk Island, a tiny isolated isle, after a sea passage from Pitcairn Island, westward across the Pacific Ocean. Upon landing, they inherited a unique and challenging environment, including a pre-existing structural penal settlement that had recently been vacated. This included a population of horses, creatures that were completely unfamiliar to this newly arrived community.The children, with their unadulterated curiosity, must have been mesmerized by the sight of these unfamiliar creatures. The horses, with their powerful legs, long necks, and flowing manes, would have seemed almost mythical. This was their first encounter with something that transcended their existing knowledge, igniting a spark of wonder and perhaps a touch of fear.And henceforth, the horses gradually became an integral part of the fabric of Norfolk Island life. They were no longer just foreign creatures; they were a vital resource, companions, a symbol of progress, and a testament to the islanders’ resilience and adaptability to create a new life in this unfamiliar land and rugged terrain. In 1902, A.B. ‘Banjo” Paterson visited the island and wrote;“The Norfolk Island horses... are not like any other kind of horse that the world has ever seen. They began by being draught horses, but a mountaineering existence has altered their shape altogether and has given them many of the characteristics of the chamois. They can feed on the perpendicular faces of the hills without falling into the sea! Their heads are large and hairy with Roman noses and large upper lips – like rudimentary elephant trunks. Perhaps this development arises from having to root among short grasses for a living. They look like spring cart horses but move with activity – and a good deal of action – of a kangaroo. They are hardy useful animals, with plenty of strength. Style they have not, nor beauty, nor pace, but just plain homely worth.”When you visit the island, you are invited to participate in a game of golf on the golf course which historically served as a race track. Today, our Golf Course location is now acknowledged as being part of the historical KAVHA (Kingston and Arthurs Vale Historic Area). It is one of the oldest of eleven penal sites around Australia that have been classed as World Heritage Sites. The golfing experience on Norfolk Island is incredibly unique for a bucket list! Thanks so much for joining me this week!Ft. 1957 recording of the Norf'k language, a conversation with the late Puss Anderson and Ruth McCoy, a discussion with the late Ralph Holloway and Ron Nobbs, a music recording with Shane McCoy and the Nightriders and George 'Toofie' Christian's song: 'Bridle Track'.Sponsored by Baunti Tours www.bauntitours.com > When booking with Baunti Tours, mention 'Podcast' to receive a 10% discount on tours. email: [email protected] phone: (International +6723) 23693To call from Australia: (02) 91368062