In this article, we will explore Kaunolu Village Site and all its implications. From its impact on society to its influence on people's daily lives, Kaunolu Village Site is a topic that deserves to be analyzed and discussed in depth. Along these lines, we will discover the different perspectives that exist on Kaunolu Village Site, as well as possible solutions or approaches to address this issue. It doesn't matter if you are an expert in the field or if it is the first time you are hearing about Kaunolu Village Site, this article is designed to offer a complete and enriching vision of it. Get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Kaunolu Village Site!
Kaunolu Village Site | |
Nearest city | Lāna'i City, Lanaʻi, Hawaii |
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Coordinates | 20°44′5″N 156°57′52″W / 20.73472°N 156.96444°W |
Area | 640 acres (260 ha) |
NRHP reference No. | 66000303 |
Significant dates | |
Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
Designated NHL | December 29, 1962 |
Kaunolū Village Site is located on the south coast of the island of Lānaʻi. This former fishing village, abandoned in the 1880s, is the largest surviving ruins of a prehistoric Hawaiian village. The archaeological site is very well preserved and covers almost every phase of Hawaiian culture. It was designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1962 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.
The site consists of two historical villages straddling Kaunolū Gulch, a dry stream bed subject to occasional flash floods after rainstorms at higher elevations. The village on the western side was named Kaunolū; the one on the eastern side was called Keāliakapu. The land is parched, with little fresh water, but the sheltered bay at the end of the gulch offers access to rich fishing in the deep seas below the high cliffs along the south coast of the island. Ancient Hawaiian bone lures used to troll for pelagic fish were found in Ulaula Cave, a small lava tube near the village.
King Kamehameha I frequently enjoyed fishing here. His house platform lies directly across the gulch from Halulu Heiau, high on the edge of a cliff above the bay. Between 1778 and 1810, he is said to have held ceremonies at this heiau (probably a luakini war/sacrifice heiau). During the late 18th century, Maui high chief Kahekili, a rival of Kamehameha, also used to visit here. Near the heiau is a notch in the cliff called Kahekili's Leap, where he is said to have ordered his warriors to dive into the sea below to prove their courage.