John Finnegan provides an intriguing account of his experience accompanying the Pumice-Stone River tribe on an expedition to resolve a quarrel with another tribe located southwest of their territory. The journey, which lasted several days, involved traveling daily with their supplies and weapons. Upon arrival, they constructed huts and prepared for the confrontation, with the men fishing and decorating themselves for the impending battle. The encampment was bustling with various tribes, each set up in distinct groups.
Finnegan describes the battle scenes with vivid detail. On the day of the fight, tribal rituals included painting and marching in formation to the battleground. The initial conflicts involved fierce one-on-one combat between women and later men from opposing tribes. Finnegan witnessed the intensity and brutality of these encounters, with serious injuries and fatalities on both sides. Despite being a foreigner, he was treated with curiosity and respect, though he faced moments of danger and anxiety during the skirmishes.
The aftermath of the conflict was marked by the solemn task of dealing with the deceased. The bodies of fallen tribe members were skinned and ceremonially handled, a process Finnegan observed with a mix of horror and fascination. The tribe eventually returned to their home territory, resuming their daily activities as if the violent confrontation had not occurred. Finnegan’s account provides a rare and detailed glimpse into the customs and wartime practices of the indigenous tribes in early 19th century Queensland.
Referencing
The narrative was written down by John Uniacke and published by Barron Field in the Geographical Memoirs of New South Wales.
Field, B. (1825). Geographical Memoirs on New South Wales.