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Indigenous Local History
Aboriginal people have occupied the greater Muswellbrook area for thousands of years. Evidence of their occupation can be found throughout the region, with numerous Aboriginal archaeological sites having been identified and recorded. The Muswellbrook Shire area was first occupied by the Wonnarua people of the Wanaruah language group. The Wonnarua/ Wanaruah people traded and had ceremonial links to their neighbouring tribes such as Awabakal, Darkinung, Geawegal, Kamilaroi, Wiradjuri and Worimi. The Muswellbrook Shire Local Government area is located within the Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council boundary.
These stories are part of the Aboriginal Oral History Project in Muswellbrook Shire (NSW). The endeavour was to gather stories without the influence of existing written history as this is often written from the perspective of non-Aboriginal people.
“Wannin Thanbarran” – A History of Aboriginal/European Contact in Muswellbrook and the Upper Hunter Valley, published by Muswellbrook Shire Council, is a collection of stories of the local history. It is available to borrow from the Muswellbrook and Denman branch of the Muswellbrook Shire Libraries.
‘In Our Own Words’ – A print copy of the Aboriginal Oral History Project in Muswellbrook Shire. This books is available at the Muswellbrook Shire Libraries.
‘Spirit of place’ – by Warren Taggart
The book features photographs of mainly cave shelters, rock engravings and landmarks of significant cultural importance for the Wonnarua people and the people of the surrounding lands.
This Guide consists of a listing and description of records available in the State Archives collection which relate to Aboriginal people.
Please note: During working hours—For all after hours enquiries, visit our contact page
Please note: During working hours—For all after hours enquiries, visit our contact page
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7 Ogilvie St,
Denman NSW 2328
Phone: (02) 6547 2208
Email: Send us an email
Hours
Monday — 10:00am - 1:00pm
2:00pm - 4:30pm
Tuesday — 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Wednesday — closed
Thursday - 10:30am - 2:00pm
Friday - 10:00am - 1:00pm
2:00pm - 4:30pm
Saturday - closed
Sunday - closed
126 Bridge Street,
Muswellbrook NSW
Phone: 02 6543 1913
Fax: 02 6543 1325
Email: Send us an email
Hours
Monday — 10:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday — 10:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday — 10:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday — 10:00am - 5:00pm
Friday— 10:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday— 10:00am - 1:00pm
Sunday— closed