The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 52
Obtaining fire
Obtaining fire.
My first desire on making their acquaintance was to be shown the way to obtain fire by the friction of two sticks. Although lucifer matches had greatly superseded this primitive method, the art was not lost and was frequently practised by them. I was particularly anxious on this point, as at a series of lectures delivered by the late Professor Faraday, I heard that great philosopher say that he had never succeeded in the attempt, nor had he ever heard of a white man being successful. My blackfellow procured two pieces of grass-tree ( Xanthorrhæa) about 18 inches long; then cutting a notch about the size of a shilling in the side of one piece, and laying it firmly on the ground, he inserted the end of the other piece in this notch, and by giving it a drilling motion between his hands, bored a hole completely through it, the spark being caught upon some dry inflammable bark previously placed to receive it.
This operation requires much care. The friction must be constant, as the slightest cessation causes the charcoal to become cold. Pressure also is necessary whilst drilling, and in order to prevent the hands from slipping and thus breaking the contact whilst replacing them, they should be supported in the ends of a loop of string passed over the top of the stick.
In those parts of the country where the grass-tree does not grow other woods supply the place.
In removing from camp to camp a firestick is generally carried by one or more of the women. Many woods, such as the ironbark, apple-tree, and others, will, when dry, smoulder away, retaining fire for a length of time. A large description of fungus which grows on many of the large trees, has similar properties. I have seen blacks use the old-fashioned tinder-box, as well as a burning glass, to obtain a light; these of course were obtained from the settlers.