The Labrador natives recount how their ancestors once coexisted with the tunneks (or tunnit), who later fled north to Killinek out of fear. Known for their strength and tools made from slate, hornstone, and crystal, the tunneks lived distinct lives, using sealskins and constructing stone houses. Their legacy endures in folklore and ruins, reflecting their formidable abilities and unique culture.
Source:
Tales and Traditions of the Eskimo
by Henry Rink
[William Blackwood and Sons]
Edinburgh and London, 1875
► Themes of the story
Cultural Heroes: The narrative highlights the Tunnit as foundational figures whose legacy influences the Labrador Inuit’s cultural history.
Conflict with Authority: The story depicts the tensions and eventual displacement of the Tunnit due to conflicts with the Inuit, reflecting challenges to established groups.
Ancestral Spirits: The tale underscores the enduring impact of the Tunnit on the Inuit, with their stories and remnants influencing present cultural identity.
► From the same Region or People
Learn more about the Inuit peoples
Abridged version of the story.
The natives of Labrador tell how our ancestors and the tunneks (or tunnit, in Greenlandish tornit, plural of tunek) in days of yore lived together; but the tunneks fled from fear of our people, who used to drill holes in their foreheads while yet alive. With this view they removed from here to the north, crossing over to Killinek (Cape Chudleigh). While dwelling among us they had sealskins with the blubber attached for bedrobes. Their clothes were made in the same way. Their weapons were formed of slate and hornstone, and their drills of crystal. They were strong and formidable, especially one of them, called Jauranat, from which is formed javianarpok (Greenlandish, navianarpok).
► Continue reading…
Huge blocks of stone are still to be seen which they were able to move. Some ruins of their houses are also to be found here and there in our country, chiefly upon the islands, having been built of stones, and differing from the abodes of our people. One of our ancestors when kayaking had a tunnek for his companion, who had a bird-spear, the points of which were made of walrus-tooth.
This tradition is compiled from several manuscripts in German from the missionaries in Labrador, in which the alien nation, expelled by the present inhabitants, are called partly “Die Tunnit,” and partly “Die Grönlaender.” Very probably these denominations have arisen from a misunderstanding, induced by inquiries put to the natives as to their knowing anything about the Greenlanders. The tunnit are almost certainly identical with the tornit or inlanders of the Greenland tales. The Eskimo of Cumberland Inlet speak about the tunudlermiut, which signifies people living in the inland. The present Indians of Labrador are called by the Eskimo of the same country aullak; but it is possible they distinguish between these and the traditional or fabulous inlanders. However, the most striking incongruity is that of the tunnit having had their abodes on the islands, which looks as if ancient settlers of European race are hinted at. Be this as it may, the tradition of the Labradorans should be more closely examined.
Running and expanding this site requires resources: from maintaining our digital platform to sourcing and curating new content. With your help, we can grow our collection, improve accessibility, and bring these incredible narratives to an even wider audience. Your sponsorship enables us to keep the world’s stories alive and thriving. ♦ Visit our Support page
Dreamtime Whispers 