Sitting right in front of the Hilo Public Library lies the Naha stone. This is a very famous legendary stone, akin to Arthur’s «Sword in the Stone». Legend has it that whoever could move the 4000lb stone would become King. Nobody could do it, until a then 14 year old Kamehameha stepped up and lifted it. He went on to become King and united(conquered) the islands. For history buffs, this stop is a must. For people who don’t really care about the past or legends, you will be very bored. This is a simple but massive stone, with a simple sign that explains the significance. The greatest thing about the stone is its location. They put it right in front of the Hilo library. Not only is the library really great, but you can take some time out and check out the stone before or after looking at the library. Even if you aren’t a local or a member, the library is free, and you will definitely appreciate the layout and architectural design of it. I have a great interest in Hawaiian history, so this is a no-brainer to check out. I suggest anyone with an interest to do the same. It is centrally located, super easy to get to, and worth the few minutes of your time it will take to see.
Eric Robert R.
Classificação do local: 5 Manoa, Honolulu, HI
Legend goes that King Kamehameha I, The Great King of Hawai’i, hoisted this massive artifact called… THENAHASTONE! How many locals, tourists, and native Hawaiians pass this historic site and never look twice?! Maybe you, too? Ahhh that’s why! It’s modestly displayed in front of the Hilo Public Library! Part of the reason why this library is rated 5-stars, well it is a pretty cool library, but many include this historic stone in their library reviews! I mean how many really wants to look at a rock? Why? I think… THENAHASTONE! Deserves a spot on its own! And here’s why… THELEGEND: According to ancient Hawaiian legend, the person who could move the Naha stone would conquer and unite the Hawaiian Islands. In 1789, King Kamehameha I is said to have lifted the massive 5,000 pounds stone while he was in his early 30’s which confirmed the prophesy that he would be a great warrior king! Trust me, no one’s moving this stone anytime soon! It is of great spiritual importance to Hawaiians, those that study Hawaiiana and Polynesia! THEFREEDOM: Did you realize you can see this historical landmark for what $ 1? Nope… Absolutely FREE! And better yet, since it’s on the grounds of public land it’s open 24⁄7 for all to see! Okay, let’s see… It’s FREE, access 24⁄7 and it has great spiritual power, too?! You better get here! THEOTHERSTONE: Okay, many call the two stones here: Naha Stone(s), but in reality only the larger flat stone is the great Naha! The second stone, the upright one, is called«The Pinao Stone» — it has less certain origins but it is linked to the great Pinao Heiau that once stood on or near the site of the Hilo Library. THEGREATKING: The Legend of the Naha Stone is the Hawaiian equivalent of the Arthurian Sword in the Stone. Centuries ago, the massive slab was transported by canoe(lifted by an entire village) from Wailua valley on Kauai to Hilo on the Big Island, and a place of honor for royalty. Young chiefs-to-be were brought to the great stone to perform a ritual test of strength. The legend is said that whoever lifted this 5,000 lbs. stone possessed true Naha leader blood, and would unite all of the islands. Enter Kamehameha, who lifted and then flipped over the Naha Stone, apparently without much fuss. He went on to unite the kingdom and become King of the Hawaiian Islands! So yes, I definitely recommend… THENAHASTONE! It’s an incredible historical landmark that literally flies under the radar! Even locals forget about this wonderful site! I mean no excuses… It’s FREE&24⁄7 for all to see! It’s located on the«Rainbow Falls» side of historic Hilo Town. Just look for the historical landmark sign or look for it in front of the Hilo library, it’s that easy! Of course, respects always and remember the significance of the mighty stone! Heck, if you’re lucky enough you just might see yours truly lifting this puppy on my back… OVERALLGRADE: 5.0-STARS! LIVEALOHA… UnilocalREVIEW #435
