Posted on: Sunday, May 26, 2002

Exhibit explores drama of South Seas Expeditions

Advertiser Staff

A traveling exhibit that tells the story of how more than 130 young men, many of them Native Hawaiians, were sent to occupy remote Pacific island from 1935 to 1942 debuts this weekend at the Bishop Museum with "Hui Panala'au: Hawaiian Colonists, American Citizens."

The exhibit, which incudes oral histories, photographs, log books, maps and programs, celebrates the achievements of the young men sent to take part in the South Seas Survey Expeditions on Jarvis, Howland and Baker islands, and explains how they endured constant sun, blistering heat, rats, sharks and ultimately, enemy fire after the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

"Hui Panala'au" continues 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through June 16. Admission is $14.95. Call 848-4190 for more information.