Picture of Hokule`a(40k)(Photo by Melinda Sue Allen)
Symbol of Cultural Pride
It began as an experiment and fostered a cultural revival. The Polynesian Voyaging Society built Hokule`a to learn how traditional Polynesian canoes performed on the open sea. Her design was based on early European accounts and drawings of Pacific voyaging canoes. Hokule`a performs like a traditional canoe in terms of speed, ability to sail into the wind, and seaworthiness, even though she was made from modern materials.
For many, Hokule`a ignited a cultural awakening, bringing to life their rich maritime heritage and the heroic accomplishments of their ancestors. A source of tremendous pride for the kanaka maoli (ethnic Hawaiians), she inspired a voyaging renaissance across the Pacific.
Picture of Hokule`a(40k)(Photo by Melinda Sue Allen)
Ho`i ka `o`opu `ai lehua i ka mapunapuna.
The lehua-eating `o`opu has gone back to the spring.
Said of one who has gone back to the source.
(`Olelo No`eau #1034; Pukui 1983)
Pacific Voyaging Renaissance
Front Gallery of the Hawai`iloa Exhibit
BISHOP MUSEUM
The State Museum of Natural and Cultural History
For Museum Information, call (808) 847-3511