1956 Map of Makahalau

About this map

Mana and Makahalau anchor this mid-century survey of the high-elevation ranching and forest lands on the island of Hawaii. The landscape is defined by its water infrastructure, essential for agricultural operations in this volcanic terrain, featuring the Makahalau Pump Station, Puu Io Pump Station, and several Water Tanks connected by pipelines. At the southern edge, the map climbs into the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve, where heavy green shading marks the transition into protected woodlands. Volcanic cinder cones, or puus, dominate the topography, including Puu Kikoni and Puu o Kihe. Local history is visible in the network of jeep trails and fence lines that crisscross the South Kohala and Hamakua District boundary, along with a small Cem near the northern border, reflecting the isolated ranching communities of the era.