“These publications are the result of 20 years’ effort in documenting our precious aboriginal past,” Yilan County Magistrate Lin Tsung-hsien said. “We are excited to use them to foster a better understanding of this special chapter of our history.”
According to Lin, the book is translated from a volume published by the administration in 1923 during the Japanese colonial period (1895-1945). “It offers an accurate overview of Atayal life and of the group with their Kavalan and Truku counterparts in the region,” he said, adding that official policies and military actions against the peoples are also featured.
“In addition to serving as a reliable historical account, the title includes detailed annotations on place names and tribal practices,” Lin said. “We are especially grateful to Atayal elder Hayun Yuraw for his generous and patient assistance in answering questions and clarifying misunderstandings during the editorial process.”
Equally fascinating is the photography collection comprising 220 black-and-white pictures of various aspects of Atayal tribal life from 1912 to 1960, Lin said.
“Through such undertakings, we will continue preserving Yilan’s rich indigenous heritage while heightening public awareness of this valuable part of our rich social tapestry.” (DF-JSM)
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