Berkshire Museum Repatriates Hawaiian Feather Cape to Native Organization
In Pittsfield, Massachusetts, the Berkshire Museum has returned a significant Hawaiian feather cape, known as an 'ahu'ula, to Hui Ikuamo'o, a Native Hawaiian group focused on reclaiming culturally important artifacts. This historic cape, which was traditionally donned by the ali'i (the ruling class), has been part of the museum's collection since its establishment in 1903. The repatriation was marked by an 'Awa Ceremony on June 12, attended by members of the Kula Manu Club from Kamehameha Schools Kapālama in Hawai'i. These students dedicated several years to crafting a replica of the cape, which they presented to the museum. Museum officials commended the students’ efforts and the overall repatriation initiative.
Key facts
- Berkshire Museum repatriated a Hawaiian feather cape ('ahu'ula) to Hui Ikuamo'o.
- The cape had been in the museum's collection since 1903.
- An 'Awa Ceremony was held on June 12 in Pittsfield.
- Students from Kula Manu Club of Kamehameha Schools Kapālama attended.
- Students handcrafted a replica of the cape over several years.
- The replica was gifted to the museum.
- The original cape was traditionally worn by the ali'i (ruling class).
- Hui Ikuamo'o is a Native Hawaiian organization focused on repatriation.
Entities
Institutions
- Berkshire Museum
- Kula Manu Club
- Kamehameha Schools Kapālama
- Hui Ikuamo'o
Locations
- Pittsfield
- Massachusetts
- Hawai'i