Myth,Primogeniture and Long Distance Trade‐Friends in Northwest New Britain,Papua New Guinea

ABSTRACT The origins of ceremonies for firstborn children and long distance trade networks are embedded in Bariai mythology and cosmology. Based on my ethnographic research and the ethnographic reportage contained in the Australian colonial Patrol Officers' Reports, this paper explores the pre‐ and post‐contact trade networks of Bariai parents as they pursue a reputation for ‘renown’ by entering into complex trade‐friendships (sobo) and exchanges for the necessary wealth to undertake one (of seventeen) firstborn ceremony, the mata pau or ‘new eye.’ My intent in this paper is to (1) reiterate that a people and their culture can only be understood within regional systems of relationships; (2) indicate the manner in which long distance trade‐friendships were created and maintained over a long period of time; (3) show how these socio‐economic institutions are embedded in Bariai cosmology and thus made meaningful; (4) attest to the vitality and importance of these systems despite the impact of modernity, missionization and money.     

Frontier Journeys. Fore Experiences on the Kuru Patrols.

ABSTRACT This paper explores the narratives of a group of Fore men recruited as youngsters to assist a succession of scientists to investigate kuru. Against a backdrop of European intrusion, the narrators recall their motivations to assist the scientists and describe their experiences on patrol. Reflecting on the hazards, challenges and adventures faced, these narratives draw attention to the extent to which the kuru scientists depended on their Fore assistants. However, while identifying many of their experiences as highlights of their youth, the narratives also uncover a negative undercurrent of disappointment and bitterness over unrealised youthful aspirations.     

On Reading Patrol Reports – 1: South of the Blucher Range

ABSTRACT

Reports of patrols through remote areas of Papua and New Guinea led by officers of the Australian administration have much to contribute to understandings of the work entailed in rendering both land and people legible to the colonial state. But these must be read with care. Using the text and maps produced by one patrol, led by John McGregor in 1968, we demonstrate how topographic maps, produced well after particular patrols were undertaken, may be used to both refine interpretations provided in such reports and reveal factors that shaped the knowledge patrol officers produced.     

On Reading Patrol Reports – 2: Travels in East Awin

ABSTRACT

Reports of patrols through remote areas of Papua and New Guinea led by officers of the Australian administration must be read with care. We discuss the case of a patrol report from the mid 1960s where the patrol cannot have travelled the route indicated on the accompanying map. By cross-referencing to reports from later patrols, we provide both an improved reading of the report in question and, more generally, an appreciation of motivations that influenced the knowledge patrol officers produced.