Portaulun people facts for kids
The Portaulun were an Aboriginal people who lived in South Australia. They were one of the many First Nations groups who have lived on the Australian continent for thousands of years. Their history and culture are an important part of Australia's heritage.
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Portaulun Lands and Territory
The Portaulun people lived on traditional lands covering about 777 square kilometers (300 square miles). This area was located along the western bank of the Murray River. Their territory stretched from a place called Wood Hill all the way to Wellington and Pomanda Point. The Portaulun lands also extended westward to Grote Hill.
How the Portaulun Community Was Organized
The Portaulun people were divided into different family groups, often called clans. These clans helped organize their community and daily life. We know the names of two of these important clans:
- Warawalde
- Welindjeri
The name Welindjeri came about after European settlers arrived. It means 'belonging to Wellington,' connecting the clan to the town of Wellington.
A Brief History of Contact
The Portaulun people, like many Aboriginal groups, experienced changes after European settlement. The last known person of full Portaulun heritage was David Unaipon. He was a very important Aboriginal author, inventor, and preacher. David Unaipon passed away in 1967.
Notable People from the Portaulun Community
One of the most famous people connected to the Portaulun is David Unaipon. He was a significant figure in Australian history. Unaipon was known for his many talents, including his writing and inventions.
Other Names for the Portaulun
Over time, the Portaulun people and their groups were known by several different names. These include:
- Putjin
- Warawalde
- Welindjeri
- Welinyeri
- Pomunda (This name is linked to Pomunda Point, a place in their traditional lands)
- Poomunda
- Wellington tribe
