March 25, 2020:
Hanohano o Kona Lecture Series Presents Heart Of The Waa. A canoe is more than a canoe. In Hawaii, it is a powerful, soulful metaphor for our way of life and the knowledge to be gained, which is as immense as the ocean that this vessel travels. In outrigger canoe racing, a team of people must paddle in unison and work together as one to move the canoe forward. To reach a destination, there lies manao, a connection to the elements, and a readiness for whatever challenges that may emerge. The public is invited March 25 for the next installment of Kona Historical Society’s Hanohano O Kona: Wahi Pana Lecture Series, which gives residents and visitors an unforgettable education experience about our island’s unique history and vibrant culture in the places where it was and is made. The upcoming lecture, “Heart of the Wa’a,” will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, which sits on the shores of Kamakahonu Bay and Ahuena Heiau. Kamakahonu Bay is home to canoe clubs and the location of many outrigger canoe races throughout the year, including the world-famous Queen Liliuokalani Canoe Race. Ahuena Heiau is one of the most important historic places in the state. In 1795, Kamehameha I won a battle which led to the unification of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Seventeen years later, he moved his seat of government to Kona and ruled from this area until his death in 1819. Free and open to the public.