Kerri Inglis of the University of Hawaii at Hilo has written a new book titled “Ma’i Lepera: Disease and Displacement in 19th-Century Hawaii.” Kerri Inglis of the University of Hawaii at Hilo has written a new book titled “Ma‘i Lepera:
Kerri Inglis of the University of Hawaii at Hilo has written a new book titled “Ma‘i Lepera: Disease and Displacement in 19th-Century Hawaii.”
Between 1865 and 1900, more than 5,000 people afflicted with Hansen’s disease were sent to a remote leprosy settlement on Molokai. Of these individuals, 90 percent were Native Hawaiians.
“Their narrative has seldom been told, despite hundreds of letters they wrote to families, friends, the Board of Health and newspapers,” explained Rachel Pierson, a spokeswoman for the Lyman Museum, which will host Inglis at a special program at 7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 26.
Inglis’ book tells the story of this disease, a society’s reaction to it, and the consequences of the experience for Hawaii and its people. The book speaks almost exclusively in the voices of the Hansen’s disease patients, drawing upon both traditional and nontraditional sources.
At the Lyman program, Inglis will explore this significant moment in history, the struggles the settlement members faced, and the compassionate bonds they developed. A book signing will follow. Cost is $3, free to museum members. The Smithsonian-affiliated Lyman Museum is located at 276 Haili St. in Hilo. Call 935-5021 or visit www.lymanmuseum.org for more details.
