The ahupua‘a (mountain-to-sea land divisions) of Kahalu‘u and Keauhou are sacred to Hawaiians. By sharing the history of Kahalu‘u and Keauhou, as well as the life stories of kūpuna (respected elders) who live here, we are able to continue the heritage of our Hawaiian culture. Kūpuna guide us to restore the beach and bay at Kahalu‘u in a rightful and respectful way — the pono way for our children.
Through video recordings, we are able to document and share this important historical and cultural information. These recordings feature kūpuna Mitchell Fujisaka and Allen Wall sharing their stories with cultural historian Kepā Maly. Maly gives additional background on the ahupua‘a gleaned from old Hawaiian language newspapers.
These videos were produced with the support of a Preserve America Grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The grant awarded by NOAA recognizes efforts to preserve the special significance of the ahupua‘a of Kahalu‘u and Keauhou.
Watch Videos:
Cultural historian Kepā Maly talks about the history of Kahalu‘u and Keauhou on Hawai‘i Island
Uncle Allen Wall, a long-time resident and rancher from the Kona area, recalls stories from his past
The grant was also used to further the distribution of a cultural brochure on the ahupua‘a of Kahalu‘u and Keauhou. The brochure, Ho‘iho‘i kūlana wahi pana (Restoring Sacred Places), shares the special cultural significance and the wealth of little-known sites that are both sacred and life giving. Download the brochure.