Kaumakani, Kauai County, Hawaii
Plantation villages have always been known for its timeless appeal, from its sprawling fields that are full of bounty, to the impressive mills that give testament to the years of work poured into the land. Long-time visitors are often seen around the area as they enthrall people with stories on how life moved differently during their time. With Kauai known for its vast sugar plantation, a plantation town found somewhere is more than possible.
One of these towns is Kaumakani. Kaumakani is a small area located 121 miles west of Honolulu, and 2465 miles southwest of San Francisco, California. It is a quiet and peaceful community, which holds little appeal to thrill seekers and adventurers, yet is loved by people who crave for some peace and quiet.
Kaumakani is relatively small, with very few places to go for entertainment. Its population is comprised of 607 people, a number which is in turn composed of 162 families and 207 households. Its residents are comprised mostly of Asian, Latino or Hispanic, Caucasian, and Native Hawaiian descent. In addition, Kaumakani is the place in the U.S. that has the highest percentage of Asians. Interestingly, more than 50% of their adult population is married and with children.
In terms of educational attainment of both male and females who are 25 years and above, there are only few residents in Kaumakani who have finished college with an associate or bachelor's degree. Majority of the residents have only been in college for a year or are high school graduates, who opted to be part of their labor workforce.
Kaumakani's History
Kauai has been a leading producer of agricultural products since the native Hawaiians set foot on the land. Due to the tropical climate and rich soil, the early farmers realized that they could get their basic needs easily, so they opted to stay and build communities among their farms.
Kaumakani is among those communities. Its residents lived comfortably alongside their plantations, raising families and improving their community. Soon, churches, schools, offices, and other infrastructures were built to cater to the needs of the residents. As time progressed, new people and new families came to Kaumakani, yet it still was able to hold on to its rustic or rural way of living, with the farms and plantations remaining as silent witnesses on how the place and residents evolved with time.
However, in December 17, 1967, Kaumakani was hit by a tornado, the worst and most destructive that Hawaii has ever seen. The catastrophe caused over $300,000 worth of damage to crops and houses. Kaumakani had a difficult time trying to recover from the staggering blow. Unfortunately, the damage to their economy was found to be difficult to deal with, and Kaumakani fell into hard times.
But in 1994, Gay and Robinson Sugar Company, one of Kauai's leading manufacturers of sugar, purchased the Olokele sugar company located in Kaumakani. It made extensive repairs to the damaged plantation and cultivated the town back to function, while preserving its history. As it hired old plantation workers, the Olokele Sugar Company was also able to produce sugar to help revive the waning Kaumakani economy.
Kaumakani's Attractions
For people who go to Hawaii, Kaumakani is an ideal and favorite stopover. Rich in both history and natural landmarks, Kaumakani holds its own against the big resorts and museums around the island. It may not have white sand beach resorts or outrageous outdoor activities. But its quiet, albeit rural aura is a soothing contrast to the crowded and noisy city. In tradition with the historical roots of Kauai as the premier producer of sugar, the small and rural Kaumakani has something to boast of as well. The Olokele Sugar Company has historical displays and artifacts of the historical and modern sugar plantations. Tours are available during weekdays for adults and children who are interested to see other plantations.
For the sports-minded tourist, the Kaumakani Sports Field must be included in the itinerary. The sports field is already a landmark in the place. A 3.45 acre multi-purpose field for baseball, little league, and softball, it is the site of regular sports tournaments and competitions.
For a comfortable stay in Kaumakani, different types of hotels residences are available nearby to choose from. Depending on your taste and your budget, there is something available for everyone. Try the small restaurants that feature their cuisine. Walk around the area while scouting for souvenirs, or strike a conversation with the local residents. An effective way to learn and understand their culture and history is to talk to those people who have seen time pass by as they witness the changes and stand in the sidelines.
Kaumakani's Economy
Kauai island's economy is improving, and Kaumakani is going along for the ride. With three major industries on the Kauai island, the succeeding years might not be the same as today.
Topping the list of Kaumakani's driving force is agriculture. With the continued operations of the Olokele Sugar Company, Kaumakani may soon expect an increase in revenue. With the continuing need for workers, local residents may soon have the luxury of working within the community.
The second industry is tourism. With all the places and activities offered within the island, Kaumakani is expected to place in an advantageous position to develop new businesses that will cater to tourists interested in the Hawaiian heritage or to those who are just 'passing through.' Among the ventures that will benefit greatly are those in the food and accommodations industry, such as restaurants, drive-through inns, and specialty stores.
Connected to the two industries is construction. With the need for houses and various infrastructures, construction firms will soon be needing additional employees to plan, develop, and build homes and offices. With Kaumakani's able-bodied population, prospects are bright.
The final industry that is seen to be an asset is military technology. With military activity present in Barking Sands, a need arises for technological experts and office workers for their missile testing and other military-related projects.
All these could add to a better economic standing for Kaumakani residents whose average household income is only roughly about $34,583. While males earn more, with $34,583, compared to the women, about 11.1% of Kaumakani's residents live below poverty line.
Kaumakani Statistics:
Population: 607Households: 207
Median resident age: 40.1 years
Median household income: $34,583
Median house value:
Land area: 1.0 square miles
Elevation: 196 feet
Latitude: 21°55'N
Longitude: 159°37'W
Zip code: 96747
County: Kauai
