Princess Keʻelikōlani Dr

Описание: In Hawaiʻi, names are important. Why? Because they tell a story. Are you familiar with the meaning of the street you live on? Our weekly “Aloha Authentic” segment highlights various roadways across the island so we can dig into the name, and in turn, learn something new about Hawaiʻi and our history. This week, we bring our attention to a woman who stood her ground during a time of drastic change.

Within the ahupuaʻa of Kaumalumalu and Pāhoehoe, which lie in the moku of Kona on Hawaiʻi island, stands of roadway that carries the name of a Hawaiian princess considered the last link to the old Hawaiian ways.

We are talking about Princess Keʻelikōlani Drive.

Born in 1826, Princess Ruth Keʻelikōlani lived a life of resistance to the new and perpetuated the old.

Born 6 years after the arrival of the first missionaries, Princess Ruth remained loyal to her native culture.

She refused to speak English despite being fluent, forcing foreigners to speak to her in Hawaiian language or via a translator.

She chose to live in a grass hut instead of her western palace and continued to honor her Hawaiian deities.

In 1880, Mauna Loa erupted threatening the town of Hilo.

So, Princess Ruth was called from Oʻahu to help.

When she arrived on island, she walked to the edge of the lava flow to give praise to her fire deity, Pele.

Her offerings included prayers, red handkerchiefs, and the liquor brandy.

She slept nearby only to wake up the next morning to the lava stopped in its tracks.

Princess Ruth Keʻelikōlani died at the age of 57 from heart disease.

She was considered the largest landowner and the richest woman in all Hawaiʻi.

Did you know? Now you do!