The Queen of Hawaii

Eli Whitney Museum

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Lili’u Loloku Walania Kamaka’eha

The Queen of Hawaii: Messing About in Boats

for ages 9-12

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2023 Summer Program

Queen Lili’u Loloku Walania Kamaka’eha, the first female leader of the Kalākaua dynasty, ruled a unified Hawaiian Kingdom until 1917. Queen Liliuokalani fought to keep Hawaii free from British and American conquestors. She was highly educated as well as an accomplished musician who composed numerous songs, including the national anthem, highlighting Hawaiian tradition on her mission to preserve her heritage. Her philanthropic work to better her country can never be forgotten.

Initially inhabited by Polynesians, the success of Hawaiian culture depended on access to the sea. The waters of the pacific ocean provided vitality to the people on the islands. But how did they fish and travel? They sailed boats, of course! Outrigger canoes (Wa'a) were not only used to gather fish, but were also used to race and sail beyond the shore. They were the Hawaiian royalty's way of displaying strength to enemy armies, each boat with its own Hawaiian name.

Take a dream journey to Hawaii with us and discover the legends, history, and traditions of these magnificent islands. Construct Wa’a boats and create models of Mount Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The topography, plant life, language, art, and music of the majestic Hawaiian islands have so much to discover and learn from.


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