The stone utilized for Historial Hawaiian Stone Art distinguished engravings carries a profound legacy, having been quarried nearly a century ago in the renowned Slate Valley, NY.

These exceptional slates once served as the roofing shingles for the Kawaiaha’o Church, safeguarding its structure from 1927 until 1992. Strategically located at the intersection of Punchbowl and King streets in Honolulu, Hawai’i, this historic church was established in 1820 by King Kamehameha II and Queen Ka’ahumanu.

It has long been a revered sanctuary where the royal family of Hawai’i convened in prayer, embracing Christianity as a cornerstone of their lives. The name Ka wai a ha’o translates to ‘The waters of Ha’o’ in Hawaiian, honoring Ha’o, a distinguished queen of O’hau known for her affinity for the refreshing freshwater spring that emerged from the earth, nurturing the once arid and sun-baked plains of Honolulu. Initially, the church was a modest thatched grass structure, but in 1842, it was transformed into a magnificent stone edifice under the leadership of Rev. Hiram Bingham.

Today, it proudly holds a designation on both the state and national registers of historic buildings. The enduring walls of the church are constructed from an impressive 14,000 blocks of coral, while the original wooden shingles were replaced by the durable slate in 1927. In 1992, the slate underwent meticulous restoration due to the deterioration of its fasteners, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Mark Kahuokapono, the brother of the Scott K Manley, played a pivotal role in rescuing many pieces of this slate from potential destruction. These shingles were carefully transported to Kawela, where they awaited the skilled craftsmanship, heartfelt dedication, and deep-rooted heritage of the artist, Scott Kekūhaupi’o. He expertly transformed these stones into captivating engravings that vividly illustrate the rich tapestry of his Hawaiian history and culture. Each engraved piece is not merely a work of art; it serves as a narrative that connects the past with the present, inviting all who encounter it to reflect on the profound history of the Hawaiian Islands.

In honoring these stones, Scott pays tribute to the generations that have preceded us, celebrating their traditions and the timeless beauty of their culture.