Note 46 — Introductory material (continued 2)

Ahua-a-Umi; collection or memorial of Umi. These ruins lie on the great plateau of Hawaii about equally distant from Mauna Loa, Kea and Hualalai, the principal structure being the temple of Kaili, said to have been erected by Umi. Three northern pyramids forming the front are also credited to him to represent the districts of the island he then governed, other districts as conquered being obliged each to build similar pyramids on the side of the temple. [Wilkes U. S. Ex. Exped. 1845, vol. IV, p. 100.] Alexander says: “Umi built a remarkable temple, now known as Ahua-a-Umi, which he is said to have occupied as his headquarters. Around this heiau he caused six pyramids of stone fifteen or twenty feet high to be erected, one by each district of the island, besides one for himself.” ↑