The Lekeleke Burial Grounds in Keauhou, Big Island of Hawaii
Hawaii is known for its rich history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. From its famous landmarks, to its historical sites, there is something for everyone to discover on this breathtaking island. One such location is the Lekeleke Burial Grounds in Keauhou, Big Island of Hawaii.
The Lekeleke Burial Grounds hold a significant place in Hawaiian history. This site was the site of the battle between King Kamehameha's forces and the followers of the ancient Hawaiian religion called Kapu. The battle took place between the two sides in December 1819, which resulted in the deaths of over 300 warriors, including Kekuaokalani, a prominent leader of the traditionalists. The followers of the old religion were pardoned, and the culture of Hawaii was forever changed. The burial ground was named Lekeleke, located on the border between the Ahupuaʻa of Keauhou and Honalo.
The Lekeleke Burial Grounds hold great historical importance, and that is why it has been listed on the Hawaii Register of Historic Places as site 10-37-1745 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 as site 74000714. King David Kalakaua, in his book "Hawaiian Legends: Introduction" eulogized the leader of the Kapu followers, Kekuaokalani, as a grand defender of the faith and a man of great courage and beauty.
If you are a history buff or just love discovering new and interesting places, the Lekeleke Burial Grounds in Keauhou, Big Island of Hawaii is a must-visit. With its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and significant cultural importance, this site is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.
This battle marked the end of the traditional kapu religious system and marked a turning point in the nation's history. The battle was between two forces, Kekuaokalani, who sought to preserve the traditional kapu system, and his cousin Liholiho (Kamehameha II), who had abandoned the kapu system. Despite the victory of Liholiho, many warriors from both sides were buried on the property after the battle, including Kekuaokalani and his wife, Chiefess Manono.
There are different accounts of what led to the Battle of Kuamo‘o, but generally, it was a result of Liholiho breaking the ʻai kapu, a Hawaiian code of conduct that governed contact between men and women. This caused Kekuaokalani to resist the change and eventually led to the battle. The battle was fought with muskets, spears, slingstones, and clubs, and Liholiho's forces were supported by a swivel gun and cannons on a western frigate. The battle resulted in many casualties, and Kekuaokalani, Manono, and their followers were buried at Kuamoʻo under makeshift stone cairns.
The Battle of Kuamo‘o marked the abandonment of traditional Hawaiian gods and was seen as the fulfilment of the prophecy of the famous seer Kapihe. However, opinions on the prophecy's fulfilment vary. Today, the land at Kuamoʻo is a historical site that includes Lonohelemua Heiau and Pūʻoʻa Heiau, shrines and ceremonial areas, sea caves, salt pans, agricultural terraces, and more. The site is a reminder of the historical events that took place and the changes that the Hawaiian people went through.
Three months after the Battle of Kuamo‘o, the first group of missionaries arrived in Hawaii and found an incredibly spiritual people who were searching for answers. The Battle of Kuamo‘o and the arrival of the missionaries changed the spiritual landscape of Hawaii forever. The site at Kuamo‘o is a part of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail and is a must-visit for those interested in Hawaiian history and culture.