Aunty Ruth Hegarty’s life of defiance

The hardship, cruelty and loneliness of the mission system during the Great Depression didn't crush Aunty Ruth Hegarty's spirit. She found her voice, God and her family.

In 1929 during the Great Depression, Ruth Hegarty travelled with her mother and grandparents to Barambah, later known as Cherbourg Aboriginal Mission. After being told someone there would help them find a new home, they soon discovered they weren't allowed to leave.

At 4 years of age, Ruth was separated from her family. She grew up as a dormitory girl, and was sent out to work as a domestic servant when she turned 14.

But the cruelty and loneliness of the mission system didn't crush Ruth's spirit.

Ruth found her voice, she found God, and she became a matriarch to five generations of descendants.

Content warning: this episode contains discussions about abuse, family violence, and Stolen Generations

Further Information

Ruth's books Is that you, Ruthie? and Bittersweet Journey are published by University of Queensland Press.

Ruth's life story has been adapted into a play written and directed by Leah Purcell.

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