People

 

Poi Pounders

NPS Photo from Museum Collection

Early Hawaiian Life

Though majority of the 8,000 patients sent to Kalaupapa between 1866 and 1969 are of Native Hawaiian descent, Native Hawaiians have lived continuously at Kalaupapa for over 900 years before Hansen's disease settlements were established. Learn about the generations of Native Hawaiian families who had developed spiritual and subsistence connections to the ʻāina, or land, of Kalaupapa.

 

Kalaupapa Historical Society Collection

The Patients

Since 1866 more than 8,000 Hansen's disease patients have lived on the Kalaupapa Peninsula. Living exiled from the rest of the world, patients created a settlement and community, first in Kalawao and then in Kalaupapa. Life experiences varied greatly from suffering and challenges to profound accomplishments and successes. Learn more about the Hansen's disease patients of Kalaupapa.

 

Kalaupapa Historical Society Collection

Na Kokua - The Helpers

Hansen's disease patients were not the only people who went to Kalaupapa. Friends, family, and others who wanted to ease the emotional and physical suffering of the patients also came to Kalaupapa. Read more about the kokua - the people who came to help.