Catalogue of the Roth Collection of Aboriginal artefacts from north Queensland. Volume 1. Items collected from Archer River, Atherton, Bathurst Head, Bloomfield River and Butcher’s Hill, 1897–1901
Abstract
[Preface] This is the first in a series of catalogues being prepared on the Roth collection of Aboriginal artefacts held at the Australian Museum. These catalogues will let Aboriginal people know about this north Queensland material which was gathered together nearly 100 years ago. It will make it easier for everyone to use this valuable collection and will save the delicate objects, registers and original documents being handled too much by people wishing to study the artefacts.
The original 18 Roth Bulletins are full of information. Unfortunately, like much 19th century and early 20th century writings, they are written in a manner that is difficult to understand. The lack of an index makes it hard to find information. Production of these new regional catalogues by the Australian Museum will make the older works easier to use.