Islanders
The arrival of the Pitcairn people provided a fresh dimension to Norfolk Island. They have maintained and cultivated their distinctive culture and language, and preserved the rich history and natural magnificence of the Island.
The Third period of occupation on Norfolk Island began when the descendants of the Bounty mutineers sailed from Pitcairn Island to settle on Norfolk Island. 194 people (40 men and 47 women, 54 boys and 53 girls) made this 3700 mile, five week journey to Norfolk Island; arriving on 8 June 1856.
Almost all these new settlers were descendants of the most famous naval mutiny in modern history - HMS Bounty. Given this, most of the new settlers carried names such as Adams, Buffett, Christian, Evans, McCoy, Nobbs, Quintal, and Young.
8 June remains the most significant date on Norfolk Island calendar each year. Bounty Day, or Anniversary Day as it is more formerly called is a public holiday where the people of Norfolk Island celebrate the arrival of their forebears. Bounty Day has not altered over generations and even today the food, friendship and style of clothing still portray the traditions of yesteryear. One of the features of the day is the reenactment of the landing of the Pitcairn people on Norfolk Island, and the procession march through the historic ruins at Kingston.
Two small groups subsequently returned to Pitcairn Island, while the remainder made Norfolk their home. For many years agriculture formed the basis of the Island's economy. The majority of the Islanders lived a subsistence lifestyle, growing their own food. In later years their incomes were supplemented by exporting produce and by whaling.
The Pitcairners have made Norfolk Island their home. They have a special connection with the Island, and a unique culture and heritage that has been preserved for future generations.
The descendents of the Bounty and their Tahitian wives brought their own language with them when they migrated to Norfolk Island. Norfolk is a unique mixture of 18th Century English and Polynesian. English is the most commonly used language on the Island, however you will hear the Islanders talk to one another in Norfolk.
Here's a taste of the local language:
| Norfolk |
English |
| Watawieh Yorlye? |
How are you? |
| Si Yorlye Morla |
See you tomorrow |
| Kushu |
Good |
| Hili |
Lethargic |
| We baut yu gwen? |
Where are you going? |
| Fut nort? |
Why not? |
| Daaset |
That's it |
| Daa letl salan waili ap in aa pain. |
That little child is stuck in that pine. |
Island dancing, music, singing, basket weaving, and arts and crafts also remain very important elements of the Norfolk Island culture. Norfolk Islanders also have their own unique cuisine. Visitors can sample many tasty local dishes such as Pilhai (baked kumera), Mudda (banana dumplings), and Hihi Pie (made with periwinkles).
The Island is home to 1800 permanent residents, of which 35% are descendants of the most famous naval mutiny in modern history - HMS Bounty. Due to there being so many shared surnames, many of the descendents are listed in the local telephone book by their nicknames for identification purposes - Lettuce Leaf, Spuddy, Bubby, Diddles, Loppy to name just a few.
During the Second World War and airstrip was built on the Island. This proved a catalyst for change. With easier access to Norfolk, tourism developed to the point where it became the mainstay of the economy. Tourism remains Norfolk's main industry, although farming and fishing are still important aspects of Island life.
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