Mid 1800s -
Mid 1900s
Plantation & Paniolo
Makena of this period made way for the commercialization of mauka and makai regions, including the introduction of the sugar and cattle industries.
Mauka: On Land
Makena saw a commercialization of areaʻs natural resources. The land was used in large areas for agriculture and ranching. Plantation ranch style architecture and machinery were introduced.
Makena become known as the ‘Potato District’ (1830 – 1854)
In the 1840s, Makena, which was only a small locality in Papaʻanui, is used to refer to the larger areas surrounding the landing
Sugar became the primary crop
Establishment of ranching and Hawaiian paniolo (cowboy)
Makai: By Sea
Local fishermen continued to provide food for their families from the rich ocean resources of Makena. The shoreline was altered to support mauka business interests.
The Honuaʻula fishery was protected by Kingdom Law
Akule fishing persisted
Makena Landing became a focal point for Maui exports
Shuttles to Kahoʻolawe were operated