Down in the Kitchen - Mission Songs Project

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About this Episode
Down In The Kitchen - Composed by Alma Geia who was a member of the Stolen Generation, this song is from the children's dormitories on Palm Island and was sung around the 1930s. This innocent tune gives an insight into the living conditions of children who were removed from their families and placed in the segregated dormitories and how they made light of tough times. The song’s melody derives from an old American folk tune called ‘Down in the Valley’ which Alma heard as a child and adapted to her own experiences.

About Mission Songs Project
Jessie Lloyd started the Mission Songs Project to revive songs from Australian Aboriginal missions, settlements and reserves during the Mission's Era of 1901 to 1967.

Blending Western musical styles with Aboriginal song traditions, they are a reminder that the world’s oldest living culture is continually adapting and breathing. Jessie traveled the country to find this rare collection that shines a light in the corner of Australia's history. This digital series features songs from The Songs Back Home album.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are advised that the following program may contain images and voices of people who have died.

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