Annetta Florence Ragg, an 85-year-old resident of Toorak, shared her heartfelt memories of growing up in Fiji during an interview with *The Fiji Times* on February 3, 1962. Having lived her entire life in the island nation, Mrs. Ragg reflected on the challenges and joys of her early years, illustrating a time when community bonds were strong.
Mrs. Ragg, born in Na Tovu Tovu in Rewa, fondly recalled a period where life was akin to one big family, with neighbors supporting one another. “We had to make our own amusements, picnics and that sort of thing, but we enjoyed them very much,” she reminisced. She highlighted the resourcefulness of women in her community, mentioning how they took pleasure in cooking, sewing, and managing their households.
With limited access to healthcare in remote areas, it was common for family members and friends to provide care during childbirth, as medical facilities were scarce. Supplies were often limited, and Mrs. Ragg noted that ships arrived only about four times a year, making certain items like tea difficult to come by.
In a testament to Fiji’s cultural heritage, Mrs. Ragg described three large “god stones” in her garden, which held significant meaning for the local community. These stones were said to have been used by Fijians on Kadavu to control rainfall, presented to her father after he built a reservoir for the area.
Food scarcity during her childhood prompted Mrs. Ragg’s mother to send her and her siblings into the bush to gather ingredients for lemon tea, as fresh dairy products were practically nonexistent. She recalled heart-wrenchingly how her mother cried when floods washed away her livestock.
Throughout her life, Mrs. Ragg witnessed significant changes in Fiji, including her father’s hotel and store becoming a key stopover for travelers between Levuka and Suva, which was then a challenging two-day journey by boat. She remembered the logistical difficulties of her education, which began with two sisters teaching in a makeshift classroom and included crossing Nubukalou Creek in a boat to reach school.
After marrying at 20, Mrs. Ragg had five children and continued to maintain a vibrant life filled with gardening, cooking, and sewing, despite her advancing years. Her garden on Amy St was a testament to her dedication, distinguishing her home in a rapidly changing environment.
Mrs. Ragg’s life story is not just a window into Fiji’s past but a narrative of resilience, community spirit, and the unwavering bond of family. Her experiences reflect a rich history that continues to shape the character of Fiji today.