Jeff Coakley

Jeff Coakley discusses how he came to Kohala as a young adult, ready for a change, having lived a “fast life” on O‘ahu for many years. He shares anecdotes regarding his personal experience in Kohala, and some of the notable Kohala people he met, including Sonny and Tommy Solomon. These kupuna taught Jeff about traditional ways of living off the land, as well as how to live Kohala’s values. The interview ends with a very simple, but inspiring message to the youth of Kohala.

How to Make a Crab Trap

Describes the traditional Hawaiian way to catch a'ama crab.
Photo credit: Keiki Fishing Adventures

How to Prep For a Hawaiian Party

Describes gathering food mauka to makai for a Hawaiian party.
Photo credit: Rryanhnl, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Memories of Pololū Valley

Talks about the Solomon Family, fishing off of Pololū Valley, and learning lessons about sharing.
Photo credit: National Archives and Records Administration, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Highway Driving Etiquette

Remembers humorous incident when he "offended" someone by not saying hello.
Photo credit: Yoshi Canopus, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Closing of the Kohala Plantation

Recounts the changes in Kohala when the plantation closed, particularly the rise of drug use.
Photo credit: elsaolofsson, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

You Gotta Know
Who You Are

Advice for the next generation.
Photo courtesy of Lani Eugenio

Additional resources

Transcript

Credits and video information

Recording date: 7/2/22
Location: Kamahemeha Park, Kohala Reunion, Kohala

Videographer: Lucas Manuel-Scheibe
Editor: Elijah Bermudez, Hawai'i Community College