A Million Little Pieces Of My Mind

Today is my last day on Maui (this trip). I woke at a reasonable hour (9-ish) after yesterday's adventures. Late this afternoon I will be meeting Rob in Makawao to receive the box of pictures I left behind in 2022, and tonight my flight leaves about 8:30 PM. I packed my stuff and still had time to spare. What to do? After all, I'm in Hawaii, and don't want to squander a moment here.

So I headed for Oluwalu Landing, where I've been told by the lovely folks at Camp Oluwalu is a nice spot for soaking in the ocean. On the way I came upon an archeological site. There's a lot of them on the island, and most predate colonization. But this one turned out to be for an old sugar mill.

The Olowalu Sugar Mill, established in the mid-1800s, was one of the earliest sugar mills on Maui. It was built by the Olowalu Company, which played a significant role in the island's burgeoning sugar industry. The mill operated for several decades, contributing to the local economy and shaping the community. However, by the 1930s, the mill was decommissioned and dismantled, leaving behind the ruins that can still be seen today. These remnants offer a glimpse into Maui's rich agricultural history and the early days of its sugar production.

Olowalu Landing is a historic site located just off the Hono'apiilani Highway. It was once a bustling port where goods, including sugar, were shipped from Maui to other parts of the world. Today, it's a serene spot known for its beautiful sunsets and scenic views.

A jetty alongside the landing itself protects it from the churning waves.

I waited for the people using it to leave, then floated in the calm, warm water for an hour. Yes, it was awesome.

The landing itself has a rich history of indigenous use. Before colonization, the area was part of a larger ahupua'a (land division) that extended from the mountains to the sea. The indigenous Hawaiians utilized this area for various purposes, including launching canoes. The calm waters and natural landing made it an ideal spot for fishing and transportation.

Olowalu was also known for its fishponds and agricultural activities, such as growing taro and breadfruit. The area holds significant cultural and historical importance, with many ancient practices and traditions tied to the land and sea.

But eventually it came time for me to drive to Makawao, finally, to pick up the box of pictures from Rob. On the way I caught this nifty view of the West Maui Mountains, with the town of Wailuku nestled in its foothills.

The West Maui Mountains, also known as Mauna Kahalawai, are the remnants of an ancient shield volcano that formed around 1.3 million years ago. This majestic range, with its highest peak at Pu'u Kukui standing at 5,788 feet (about half as high as the much-younger Haleakalā), showcases the dramatic effects of erosion over hundreds of thousands of years. The mountains are composed primarily of dark basalt rock, formed by fast-flowing lava during the volcanos active period. The last eruption occurred approximately 320,000 years ago, leaving behind a landscape carved by streams and landslides. Today, the West Maui Mountains are home to lush valleys, towering waterfalls, and a diverse array of native flora and fauna.

Makawao, nestled on the northwest slope of Haleakalā in Upcountry Maui, is a charming town with a rich history. Makawao's name, meaning Eye of the Forest, hints at its lush surroundings and deep connection to the land. Originally inhabited by Polynesians over a thousand years ago, it evolved into a vibrant community known for its ranching and farming. In the 19th century, Makawao became a hub for the paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboys, whose legacy is still evident today. The town's unique blend of Hawaiian and Western cultures is reflected in its historic buildings, art galleries, and local shops.

But I was there, not as a tourist, but because it's located roughly halfway between Hana, where Rob lives, and Kahului, from where I'll be flying out tonight.

I got the SUV back to the rental place. (I had a little trouble finding it, but I called and the guy ran into the street to wave me in.) They then drove me to nearby Kahului Airport where I checked my bag and the box of pictures and made them put me into a wheelchair. The flight left after 8 PM for an early-morning arrival in Phoenix. (Because of the prevailing winds, it only takes 5.5 hours to fly to Phoenix, as opposed to 6.5 hours to fly to Kahului from Phoenix.)

And so…another trip checked off! Then, in two weeks, I get a new hip and we'll see what happens then.