Waiʻalae
Wai‘alae was a spring that gave its name to a large land section in Eastern O‘ahu. Wai‘alae is one of many names that begin with the word “wai,” fresh water, emphasizing how important water was to this area.
**Information used from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Nā Inoa ʻĀina - Oʻahu Place Names.
**Information used from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Nā Inoa ʻĀina - Oʻahu Place Names.
Looking Back: Waiʻalae KahalaTHE SPRINGS OF WAIʻALAE
"Waialae was a dry and dusty part of Oʻahu. Water was scarce and greatly appreciated.
Legend has it that the ancient Hawaiian aliʻi reserved a spring for themselves, posting guards to restrict access and keep the waters flowing. The responsibility was a special honor that was passed down the family lineage from one generation to the next. By the reign of Kamehameha III in the 1830s and 1940s, a hard-working old couple was responsible for the spring. Word came one day that the king and a small riding party were touring Oʻahu and were due to pass through Waiʻalae. The sun’s heat was blistering, yet all of the loyal subjects were present to greet their sovereign. Quite unexpectedly, the royal entourage halted before those gathered. The king was thirsty and had asked for a sip of water. |
Without a moment’s delay the old couple hurried to the hidden spring... and humbly presented the king with cool, refreshing water. Kamehameha III was very grateful, and his kind words of appreciation to the couple were the best rewards for their long and faithful service.”
Today, the location of the original spring is unknown, but some evidence points to the mauka (upland) area of today’s country club golf course.
**Information used from Beyond Homes Hawaiʻi posted April 13, 2014 by Bob Sigall.
Today, the location of the original spring is unknown, but some evidence points to the mauka (upland) area of today’s country club golf course.
**Information used from Beyond Homes Hawaiʻi posted April 13, 2014 by Bob Sigall.