Pu - The Hawaiian Conch Shell Quilt
T
he pu was blown like a trumpet and its clear, unearthly tones could carry as far as two miles. Chiefs rallied their people with fanfares played on the pu. Ceremonies opened to its call. A pu was discovered in legendary King Kamehameha’s royal yacht; it now resides in the Smithsonian Collection.
The pu is still sounded today at the opening of the state legislature and at hula festivals and other occasions. Our quilt celebrates its unique place in island life both past and present.
