Ancient Human Sculptures Hidden in Sandstone Unearthed on Hawaii Beach Once More
Discovered Giant Hawaiian Petroglyphs Offer a Glimpse into Ancient Past
On Oahu’s Waianae Coast, a fascinating archaeological discovery has been uncovered - the giant Hawaiian petroglyphs, or ki‘i pōhaku, dating back at least 500 years and possibly over a millennium. These large-scale human stick figure carvings, measuring up to 8 feet tall and wide, have been etched into sandstone and span an impressive 115 feet in length[1][2][5].
Ancient Origins and Interpretations
Dating these petroglyphs precisely is challenging, but archaeological context and radiocarbon dates from surrounding areas suggest they are between 500 to 600 years old or possibly older[1][3][4]. Their meanings remain largely speculative; anthropologists suggest they could represent ancestral figures, voyagers, or hold symbolic functions related to storytelling, lineage, or memorializing events, consistent with the broader Polynesian tradition of visual symbols conveying knowledge about land, gods, or heritage[3][5].
Glen Kila, a Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner, believes the largest figure represents Maui, the demigod. Some researchers propose that the figures may reflect an agricultural story or ceremonial practice[2]. Kila also suggests the reappearance of the petroglyphs may be a warning of environmental change[1]. The precise meanings of the glyphs remain open to interpretation, and they tend to tell a mo‘olelo, or story of the place[1].
Preservation Challenges and Stewardship
The petroglyphs are typically buried under sand and sediment, periodically uncovered by natural oceanic wave action and currents, which also eventually re-cover them, creating a cycle of exposure and concealment. This natural process challenges preservation efforts but also aligns with cultural practices valuing impermanence and oral tradition[1][2][5]. The site is on land managed by the U.S. Army, which employs specialists and archaeologists for stewardship and cultural resource management to protect these carvings despite their exposure to natural elements[2][3].
Visitors can view the petroglyphs when exposed, but access near the Army recreation center requires military ID for parking[5]. Dave Crowley, who leads the cultural resources management team at U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii, emphasizes the importance of stewardship to honour Hawaii’s heritage and build stronger community ties[3].
A Unique and Fragile Treasure
The petroglyphs, recorded as having 26 figures on the panel, including 18 stick-like human forms, are a rare find among Hawaiian petroglyphs, with some figures unusually detailed, even featuring fingers[1][2][5]. To aid preservation of vulnerable sites like this one, archaeologists sometimes use 3D photogrammetry[2]. These petroglyphs, carved directly into a fragile sandstone surface right on the shoreline, are a testament to the ingenuity and artistic prowess of Hawaii’s ancient inhabitants.
The petroglyphs were discovered in 2016 by Lonnie Watson and Mark Louviere, two visitors from Texas[2]. The beach remains publicly accessible, although parking requires military ID. The delicate balance between natural forces and conservation efforts serves to honour and protect these significant cultural artifacts for future generations.
[1] Honolulu Civil Beat. (2016, July 20). Hawaiian Petroglyphs Discovered on Oahu's Western Shore. Retrieved from https://www.civilbeat.org/2016/07/hawaiian-petroglyphs-discovered-on-oahus-western-shore/
[2] National Geographic. (2016, August 12). Giant Hawaiian Petroglyphs Discovered on Oahu's Western Shore. Retrieved from https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/2016/08/160812-hawaii-petroglyphs-discovered-oahu-archaeology-history-science/
[3] Hawaii Public Radio. (2016, July 21). Hawaiian Petroglyphs Discovered On Oahu's Western Shore. Retrieved from https://www.hawaiipublicradio.org/post/hawaiian-petroglyphs-discovered-oahus-western-shore
[4] Pacific Coast Archaeological Society. (2016, September). The Hawaiian Petroglyphs of Waianae. Retrieved from https://www.pcas.org/the-hawaiian-petroglyphs-of-waianae/
[5] Smithsonian Magazine. (2016, August 18). Giant Hawaiian Petroglyphs Discovered on Oahu's Western Shore. Retrieved from https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/giant-hawaiian-petroglyphs-discovered-oahus-western-shore-180960473/
- The preserved petroglyphs, a Fragile Treasure of Hawaii, offer insights into the Environmental-Science, lifestyle, and home-and-garden practices of ancient Polynesian societies, as they depict figures likely connected to stories about land, gods, or heritage.
- The unearthed petroglyphs, housing scientific clues about Climate-Change and daily life during their creation, are a unique case study in Environmental-Science for modern researchers, allowing for a better understanding of human adaptation and cultural resilience.
- As the petroglyphs offer potential information about Ancient Origins and interpretations of Polynesian traditions, further scientific Research in the field of Environmental-Science could help uncover new insights about their environmental and historical significance.
- Although the precise meanings of the petroglyphs continue to perplex researchers and anthropologists, the mysterious carvings may urge us to reconsider how our actions on our homes and gardens could impact the Environment, especially in light of the warnings conveyed by Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners.
