A Celebration in the Central
p. 61 · Read in the full issue
Pacific
From Our Own Correspondent
Tarawa, June 30.
THE commemoration of King’s Birth day in the Gilbert Islands is no half hearted affair.
Over a thousand natives from Tarawa Group and adjoining islands commenced their migration, about the beginning of June-, to Abaokoro, near the northern end of the Tarawa Lagoon, to be in readiness for the “Flag” ceremony and the full day’s sports meeting of June 8. The popu lation of Abaiang Island were given offi cial permission to be absent from then island for one week. Feasting was the order of the day and dancing was the order of the night, during this hectic period.
The elders of Betio village went as a deputation to Burns Philp (S.S.) Co., Ltd., to hire the Co.’s 10-ton punt and a launch for the transport of natives to Abaokoro on June 7. Abaokoro was like a busy shipping port, with its collection of cutters, luggers, auxiliary vessels, open boats and canoes from all parts.
The official ceremony at the flagstaff— always a matter of the keenest interest to the native —was conducted by the Act ing Administrative Officer of the Central Gilbert Islands District, Mr. D. C. I.
Wernham. and was followed by a com prehensive programme of sporting events and feasting. The night was given over to singing and dancing.