Connecting Legends To Volcanic Activity

Honolulu, HI – Can four centuries of volcanic activity at the summit of Kīlauea be connected to the legends of Pele (the volcano goddess) and her youngest sister, Hi‘iaka? 

In recent years, volcanologists have begun to decipher Kīlauea’s history of volcanic activity and have found remarkable correlations between eruptions and those described in the epic tale of Pele and Hi‘iaka.

On Thursday, July 9, 2009, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., join Don Swanson of the U.S. Geological Survey, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory for a captivating discussion on the connection of these legends and Kīlauea activity.  The lecture will take place at Bishop Museum’s Science Adventure Center.  Cost is $5 and free for Bishop Museum members, reservations are suggested by calling 847-8296 or by email trey.dodge@bishopmuseum.org.

The recent geologic studies confirm Hawaiian oral traditions, and also illustrate the potential value of examining other Hawaiian chants and stories to find more information about past volcanic activity in Hawai‘i.

Swanson’s lecture is part of the Traditions of the Pacific, an ongoing cultural education series about Hawaii and the Pacific presented by the Bishop Museum Association Council.  For more information, please visit www.bishopmuseum.org or call 847-8296.

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