Revised edition of the compilation of the archaeological sites located in the various districts of O'ahu to record their pre-European state.

Few regions of the United States can equal the high concentration of endangered ancient cultural sites found in Hawaii. Built by the indigenous people of the Islands, the sites range in age from two thousand to two hundred years old and in size and extent from large temple complexes serving the highest order of chiefs to modest family shrines. Today, many of these structures are threatened by their proximity to urban development. Sites are frequently vandalized or, worse, bulldozed to make way for hotels, golf courses, marinas, and other projects. The sixty heiau photographed and described in this volume are all located on Oahu, the island that has experienced by far the most development over the last two hundred years. These captivating images provide a compelling argument for the preservation of Hawaiian sacred places. The modest sites of the maka‘ainana (commoners) - small fishing, agricultural, craft, and family shrines - are given particular attention because they are often difficult to recognize and prone to vandalism and neglect. Also included are the portraits of twenty-eight Hawaiians who shared their knowledge with archaeologist J. Gilbert McAllister during his survey of Oahu in the 1930s. Without their contribution, the names and histories of many of the heiau would have been lost. The introductory text provides important contextual information about the definition and function of heiau, the history of the abolition of traditional Hawaiian religion, preservation issues, and guidelines for visiting heiau. With contributions by Kehaunani Cachola-Abad, J. Mikilani Ho, and Kawika Makanani.

"This informative and easy-to-follow guidebook puts the ancient sites of the Big Island of Hawaiʻi within the reach of the general public. Characterizes the cultural background of five main types of sites: Heiau (temples), pōhaku (sacred stones), petrographs, caves, and fishponds"--Cover.

In this informative and easy-to-follow book, author Van James highlights the features, legends, and archaeology of forty Kauai sites, including Niihau and Papahanaumokuakea, the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Each site description includes a photograph, directions, and a map for easy location. While the book is organized for touring the island s sites region by region, cross-referenced lists make it easy to develop alternatives according to personal interest. An introduction by the late Hawaiian authority Edward L. H. Kanahele gives the reader an understanding of the intimate connection Hawaiians feel to the land and its features. He describes the concept of wahi pana, sacred places of Hawaii that are imbued with spiritual significance. Sabra Kauka of Kauai contributes a Preface. Further context for the site descriptions is given by Van James in chapters describing aspects of Hawaiian culture and five main types of sites: heiau (temples), pohaku (sacred stones), petroglyphs, caves and rock shelters, and fishponds. Tips on selected sites and cultural collections are also included. Sections on site preservation, Hawaiian pronunciation, and a glossary of Hawaiian terms round out the volume. A must for visitors and kamaaina alike, this book provides an introduction to cultural treasures little known or understood.