What Is the Naha Stone?
The Naha Stone is a several-ton slab of lava rock that was used to test the royal bloodline of aliʻi (chiefs) for generations!
What Makes It Historical?
It’s not known exactly when the Naha Stone came here from Mount Waialeale on Kauaʻi, but came here it did, by double canoe led by Chief Makaliʻinuikuakawaiea of the Naha Clan! Only members of the Naha Clan were permitted to move this stone, and for that reason they trusted its ability to reveal new aliʻi among them! All baby boys would be placed on top of the stone when they were born. If they were quiet, they were royal, but if they cried, they were outcast!
A legend arose around this stone that if someone outside the clan could lift it, they would be granted the power over all of Hawaiʻi! A young man named Paiea did just that in 1789, and, prophecy or no, went on to conquer and unify all the Hawaiian Islands as Kamehameha I by 1810!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Become a member of the Hawaiian Historical Society!
- Be a responsible visitor! Please respect the signs and pathways, and treat all structures and artifacts with respect. They’ve endured a lot to survive into the present. They’ll need our help to make it into the future!
How Do I Get There?
300 Waianuenue Ave
Hilo, HI 96720
(Take Me There!)
When Should I Visit?
Whenever the mood strikes you!
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