Site of Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

1912-1942

For nearly 30 years, America’s first full-time volcano observatory occupied this site. Under the direction of Dr. Thomas A. Jaggar, world renowned volcanologist, the expertise to monitor and study volcanoes was developed. In 1942, the observatory was relocated to Uwekahuna, overlooking Haema’uma’u, to make way for the Volcano House Hotel.

This concrete piling served as a base for cameras and transits. The mound covers the old Whitney Seismograph Vault, where early seismic instruments were located.

Courtesy hmdb.org

Credits and Sources:

HMDB