About 1.5 million years ago two large volcanoes, Kamakou in the east and Maunaloa in the west, pushed through the ocean's surface and formed the island of Molokai. It first became inhabited around 650 A.D. by daring settlers traveling in double hulled canoes from Tahiti and other areas in the South Pacific. Of the roughly 7,000 residents about 40% are of Hawaiian descent, hence the moniker "The Most Hawaiian Island". Here's a quick list of places I visited in Molokai... Kalaupapa National Historical Park: The settings of two tragic chapters starting in the mid 19th century with the removal of indigenous people from this spot followed by the forced quarantining of leprosy patients here. RW Meyer Sugar Mill Museum: Also known as the Molokai Museum and Cultural Center, this retired sugar mill was built in the late 1870's to crush and process sugar cane. The family home, which overlooks the mill, is still owned by RW Meyer family members. Kawela Battlefield: Long before hostilities with European settlers existed, inter-island rivalries and battles took place between native Hawaiians. This is the site of a 5-day battle which took place in 1736 where the joint forces of Molokai and Hawaii defeated invading forces from Oahu. Thousands of warriors perished, including the Oahu chief, Kapiiohookai. Ancient Hawaiian Fishponds: Encompasses dozens of centuries old fish enclosures used to house fish before they were eaten by royal Hawaiian chieftains. |
