On a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean on the island of Kauai lies one of Hawaii’s most important archaeological and cultural sites – the hula platform known as Ke Ahu a Laka (the altar of Laka). According to legend it is here where the ancient art of hula originated. This heiau (sacred temple) was dedicated …
Historical Landmark Claims Dwarfs Built Ancient Watercourse on Kauai There’s a historical landmark (tablet) in the town of Waimea, Kauai, issued by the Superintendent of Public Works in 1928, that states “Hawaiian Dwarfs or Brownies” built an ancient watercourse known as the Menehune Ditch. That’s right, ancient dwarfs built a walled watercourse on Kauai, according …
UPDATE JUNE 2022: The Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park has been renamed the Paʻulaʻula State Historic Site to emphasize the location’s role in Native Hawaiian history. The remains of the Russian Fort Elizabeth, built in the early 1800s by the Russian-American Company, can still be seen at the Russian Fort Elizabeth State Historical Park. …
The Poliahu Japanese Cemetery (also known as the Wailua Japanese Cemetery) is located on a small hill above the sign for Wailua River State Park on Kuamoo Road on Kauai. At one time the cemetery may have overlooked the Wailua River, but heavy vegetation now obscures the view. The cemetery dates back to the late …
The remains of the original Old Sugar Mill of Koloa are located within the town of Koloa, in a field across from the town center. A 30-foot tall stone smoke stack and partial foundations are all that remain. Today, a food truck court operates nearby. In 1965 the Old Sugar Mill was designated a Registered …