NRS-17215 | Record Cards of Aboriginal Children

These records, like the legislation and regulations that governed Aboriginal people at the time, are a reflection of the attitudes and assumptions at the time these records were created. The use of original terminology is not meant to offend, but rather to place the records within their historical context.This series is incomplete; there are cards for only six people. This series consists of two separate types of cards. The first, the Aboriginal Child Record Card, details surname; christian names [please note this is the language as it is used in the record]; if Board assumed control- date and reason; admitted to homes; discharged; education and training; health; conduct and character; training and progress; if apprenticed date of first appointment; and file number. The reverse of these cards details date and movement (for example which home the child was sent to or with whom they were boarded); date and inspection; observations; and general remarks. The second type of card, the Aborigines’ Record Card, details registration number; surname; christian names [please note this is the language as it is used in the record]; caste [please note this is the language as it is used in the record]; colour shade [please note this is the language as it is used in the record]; sex; date of birth; place of birth; religion; father’s surname and christian names [please note this is the language as it is used in the record]; mother’s maiden surname and christian names [please note this is the language as it is used in the record]; details of marriage – date, to whom, and place (often siblings are listed here); details of children- name, date of birth, place where born; details of death- date, place, and burial. Family endowment, character and general habits are also recorded. The reverse of these cards details general information – occupation, movements and details of employment (this often lists in whose care children have been placed). These cards appear to be the Board’s set as some are marked as having copies sent to Kinchela or Cootamundra. There are both cards for most people covered by the series, but not all.