Bounty Day Celebration: A Norfolk Island Tradition -
Bounty Day is a significant annual celebration on Norfolk Island, commemorating the arrival of the Pitcairn Islanders on June 8, 1856. The festivities showcase our distinctive cultural identity where this living tradition brings together Norfolk Island families in period costume for a day filled with ceremonies, processions and feasting.
Bounty Day (or as it is traditionally known as Anniversary Day) stands as more than just a historical commemoration—it represents a living connection to our Norfolk community’s unique cultural identity. For island families this celebration reinforces our distinct heritage and sense of belonging. This annual event serves as a cultural touchstone that helps preserve language, customs, and community values.
Unlike many historical reenactments worldwide that commemorate events from distant history, Bounty Day maintains an intimate connection to living memory. We trace our lineage directly to those who arrived in 1856, creating a personal direct connection in the celebration that transcends mere historical interest.
AUDIO> Granny Quintal in 1956
Traditionally the style of dress for the women, was documented by Rachel Nebauer in her article in the booklet ‘Women as Agents for Change’ - CPA 2011 :
In early June 1856, apart from the Morayshire, H.M.S. Herald was at the Island doing surveying work......
They finally all disembarked on June 8th and Frederick Howard working on board the Herald had an opportunity to spend some time with the Pitcairners during the first few weeks of their arrival. He shared ‘I think the women never spoke without a smile’ which he took to be ‘a sign of a happy mind’.
Their petticoat is generally made of blue cotton drill and the upper thing which domes down within 18 inches of the ground, and shows the blue below, is of white cotton or calico and looks very well. They always go around with white pocket handkerchiefs round their necks which they sometimes tie round their heads in lieu of bonnets’.
Once all participants have assembled, the formal procession begins its journey down Pier Street toward the Cenotaph. Community members walk together in family groups, often spanning multiple generations, creating a living tapestry of our genealogical heritage.
At the Cenotaph, the procession pauses for a solemn ceremony to honour Norfolk Islanders who served and died in wars.
The procession then continues to the cemetery, where families place wreaths and flowers on the graves of deceased loved ones. This poignant tradition connects current generations with their ancestors while local hymns fill the air.
Then, a little while later when everyone gathers for the Bounty lunch, our Norfolk Grace is sung:
AUDIO> Bubby Evans singing our Norfolk Grace
The communal feast which follows brings together traditional island cuisine that blends Polynesian influences and cooking techniques. Trestle tables groan under the weight of dishes prepared from family recipes passed down through generations, creating a culinary heritage as important as the historical commemoration itself.
Those of us who live in different places all around the world, Bounty Day is always recognised wherever you are - often with traditional meals cooked, guests and friends invited to join in to celebrate together.
AUDIO>> George 'Toofie' Christian composed a song: Homesick for NI
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