Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 22, Number 10, 1 October 2005 — following a queen's footsteps [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

following a queen's footsteps

In 1871, Queen Emma decicP ed to make a somewhat dangerous trek to Kaua'i's Alaka'i swamp and the isolated reaches of Waimea Canyon - a journey that at the time included few well-traveled trails. Although some people tried to convince her not go, the queen's adventurous spirit wouldn't be denied. Led by a loeal guide, the queen and her envoy of 100 friends made the journey on horseback where the trails allowed and by foot where they didn't. During the trip, the group stopped at certain scenic spots

to take in the spectacular views of Kaua'i's west and north side, and along the way individuals from her entourage composed mele - some honoring the queen and others telling of the beautiful places they visited. For the last 16 years, the Eō e Emmalani i Alaka'i festival has commemorated this famous trip. This year's celebration will be held on Oct. 8. Sponsored by the Kōke'e Natural History Museum and Kōke'e State Park, the event will feature a traditional royal procession, led by an honorary "Queen Emma," who will travel

through the Kanaloahuluhulu Meadow on horseback. Hālau hula and musicians will perform many of the songs composed for the 1871 trek. The festival, whieh is expected to draw 2,500 people, will also include photographic exhibits and craft demonstrations, such as lauhala weaving and Ni'ihau shell lei-making. S

The festival features a royal procession passing through Kanaloahuluhulu Meadow, just ūs ūueen Emma did in 1871. Wailana Mata wūs ū past festivūl's honorary ūueen Emma. Photo: Kay Koike