The Western shores of Oʻahu have recently unveiled a fascinating discovery of petroglyphs, with an approximately 115-foot-long stretch containing 26 ancient carvings being revealed for the first time since their initial discovery back in 2016. These early Hawaiian carvings, resembling stick figures, can be found on the property of the Pililaau Army Recreation Center in Waianae. As the petroglyphs were found on army land, the United States Army Garrison of Hawaii’s team of archaeologists is responsible for managing and preserving these artifacts. However, it is believed that the site holds sacred and religious significance for Native Hawaiians.
Carved into beach stone, the petroglyphs’ exact age remains unknown, despite attempts to carbon date them proving unsuccessful. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources estimated in a press release from the initial discovery that these panels are over 400 years old. Of the 26 figures, 18 are believed to represent humans, while the remaining eight depict male genitalia. Interestingly, only two of the humanoid drawings feature fingers, with the rest being geometric or abstract in nature.
According to oral histories collected by the military in the area, the petroglyphs are believed to hold religious importance. Cultural practitioner Glen Kina, consulting with the Army to protect these carvings, suggests that the largest image might depict the demigod Maui, with his fingers pointed towards the East and West, as in a traditional Native Hawaiian legend where he steals the sun. The surrounding area of Pōkaʻī bay, where the petroglyphs were uncovered, plays a crucial role in sustenance ceremonies related to fishing practices.
While it is likely that more petroglyphs lie undiscovered near the exposed stretch, the etchings will soon be covered by sediment again due to littoral shifts caused by currents and wave activity. Kina emphasized to the Associated Press that this recent uncovering of the petroglyphs serves as a warning, signaling the rising ocean levels and the importance of preserving and protecting these ancient artifacts for future generations.
