The Wiradyuri and Other Languages of New South Wales

"The Wiradyuri and Other Languages of New South Wales" by R. H. (Robert Hamilton) Mathews is a detailed scientific study penned in the late 1800s that dives into the intricacies of the Wiradyuri language and related tongues spoken across New South Wales, examining their grammar, words, and how they were used in the lives of Aboriginal communities. Highlighting Mathews' dedication to recording and protecting the languages of Aboriginal people, the book gives a close look at the structure of Wiradyuri, its writing system, grammatical rules, and extensive vocabulary, while also presenting information about the Burreba-burreba and Ngunawal languages, pointing out what they share and how they differ. Covering more than just language, the book explores the cultural practices of these tribes, such as their coming-of-age rituals and marriage customs; thanks to Mathews' direct interactions with native speakers, the work preserves a critical piece of Australia's cultural and linguistic past.