The Archaeology of Nihoa and Necker Islands: Towards a New Understanding for Hawaiian Pre-Contact History

Sunrise at Necker Island. Photo: J. Cotton

With Dr. Kekuewa Kikiloi

Thursday, May 16, 2013
6:00 - 7:30 p.m. | Atherton Hālau
Members FREE; General Admission: $10

It has been 90 years since Dr. Kenneth Emory of the Bishop Museum did his ground breaking early work on understanding the mysterious ruins located on the islands of Nihoa and Necker, remotely located to the northwest of the ‘main’ Hawaiian Islands. This presentation will cover the outcomes of a recent ten year dissertation research project (2002-2012) that sought to further understand the archaeology of these two islands and the context these settlements played in traditional Hawaiian society.  It focuses on a period of the late expansion phase (A.D. 1400-1650), when formidable changes were underway in ritual and social organization that ultimately led to the emergence of Hawai‘i as a powerful complex chiefdom. This research demonstrates that over a four hundred year period these remote islands became the central focus of chiefly elites in establishing this area as a ritual center of power. 

Dr. Kekuewa Kikiloi is from He‘eia on the island of O‘ahu.  Over the past 10 years he has worked in archaeology and cultural resource management fields in Hawai‘i. He has held various positions in government agencies, private institutions, and a number of local non-profits.  He is currently the President for the Society for Hawaiian Archaeology (SHA), a local organization of about 150 members that include professional archaeologists and advocates of historic preservation in Hawai‘i.  His interest, passion, and commitment lie in the protection and stewardship of wahi kūpuna (ancestral sites) and the revitalization of loina kahiko (traditional practices).

RSVP online

Traditions of the Pacific is an ongoing educational program that explores the natural and cultural history of Hawai‘i and the Pacific through dynamic lectures, workshops, field trips, and films.  Everyone is welcome to attend, and Bishop Museum members receive special postcard mailings and free/discounted tuition for these events.
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