HONOLULU (KHON2) – In the ahupuaʻa of Waikīkī, which lies in the moku of Kona here on Oʻahu, stands a one-way street named after a high chiefess. We are speaking of Kuamoʻo St.
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The word kuamoʻo translates as “backbone or spine,” “road or path” or can also refer to the clamps used in making or repairing canoes.
But the street name is in honor of the niece to King Kamehameha I, High Chiefess Mary Kuamoʻo Kaʻoanaʻeha .
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Stories share that her name Kuamoʻo may be a name of symbolism, representing her resistance to the Christian religion.
Interestingly, she was married to John Young, a haole sailor from England who became a close friend and advisor to the king.
Together, they had four children, including Fanny Kekelaokalani who became the mother of Queen Emma, wife and consort to King Kamehameha IV.
According to historian Mary Kawena Pukuʻi, the name Kuamoʻo was given to the high chiefess in honor of where her brother died.