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THE MAUNA KEA ADZE QUARRY, HAWAII: STONE TOOLS ON THE EDGE OF HEAVEN

Discover Archaeology!

Washington State Historical Society and State Capital Museum Present

 The Mauna Kea Adze Quarry, Hawaii: Stone Tools on the Edge of Heaven

Scott Williams (Cultural Resources Program Manager, Washington State Department of Transportation

Monday, November 21, 2011 @ Noon

 State Capital Museum 211 – 21st Ave. SW, Olympia (360) 753-2580

The Mauna Kea Adze Quarry on Hawaii Island is the largest stone tool quarry in the Pacific, and also the most remote.  Located at 12,000 feet near the summit of Mauna Kea (“White Mountain”), the quarry has long intrigued archaeologists due to its isolated location in the sub-alpine desert above tree line at high elevation, far removed from coastal settlements.  What was it that drew Hawaiians to endure freezing temperatures, snow, altitude sickness, and a complete lack of resources such as food and firewood to quarry stone at this alpine location?  Come see a slideshow presentation discussing the archaeology of this unique site. This public program is part of the Noon-Time Lecture Series at the State Capital Museum.  Suggested donation to each presentation is $2.  You are welcome to bring lunch. Coffee, tea and cookies will be served.