EDITH KAWELOHOA KAPULE McKENZIE BORN–HAWAIIAN GENEALOGIST & LIVING TREASURE
Born in Honolulu, Edith grew up in a musical family. Encouraged by her aunt, she began formal hula training at age 12 with master Joseph Ilala’ole. From Eleanor Hiram Hoke, she learned associated chants & dances. Known as “Aunty Edith,” she taught hula & judged competitions throughout the Pacific Rim. Earning her Bachelor’s (Hawaiian Studies), Masters & Doctorate (Education & Secondary Education) degrees from University of Hawaii, she taught Hawaiian Studies at Honolulu Community College for 19 years & also lectured on Hawaiian culture & history. Awards: Ahahui Ka’ahumanu Society (1949); Member, Order of the Eastern Star & Worthy Matron (1965); Order of Distinction, State Council on Hawaiian Heritage; Ke Kukui Malamalama, Office of Hawaiian Affairs; and Governor’s Ambassador of Hawaii Award. In 2004, she was named a “Living Treasure of Hawaii,” by Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii. Edith also authored Hawaiian Genealogies Vols. I & II. She died on October 21, 2014.
Source: “Auntie Edith Kawelohea McKinzie,” Star Advertiser, 11/6/2014. Retrieved 7/28/2020, https://obits.staradvertiser.com/2014/11/06/auntie-edith-kawelohea-mckinzie/ Photo: Jeff Kubina, 8/15/1995. Permissive Use.
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