Diamond Head – Hike Into History | 808Talk.com

Diamond Head – Hike Into History

May 13th, 2009 | Print | By Richard Wong

Diamond Head - Hike Into History

Most of us are familiar with the popular Diamond Head hike. In fact it is almost a must do while on Oahu. However, many don’t know the history behind this Oahu landmark. Before Diamond Head received its current name, the Native Hawaiians knew it as Le’ahi. That changed when naÃ¯ve British sailors in the 19th century thought there were diamonds in the crater, which later was discovered to only be calcite crystals in the lava rock. In 1898 when Hawaii was annexed by the United States it added harbor defense for obvious reasons. Diamond Head then became Fort Ruger when it was outfitted with an eight-cannon battery of 12 inch caliber mortars in the crater of Diamond Head. This specific area was named Battery Harlow. The mortars were capable of launching 700-pound deck piercing projectiles at a max range of eleven miles. The crater was a great way to hide the weapons. The crater was great for hiding but bad for seeing the targets on the ocean. Before the age of radar, targets were located with telescopes and positions were telephoned back to the battery.

In 1908 began the unenviable task of constructing a proper observation. Much of this work was done with pick and shovel by hand and the construction material was lifted using cables up the side of the mountain. In the end there was a 4 level observation built for smaller guns, sightings, and coordinating with the Fort DeRussy commander which was nearby, and overall commander which was situated at the top. All the levels were connected with a spiral staircase. These levels are hard to see and for good reason.

Much of this great defense is owed to Secretary of War William H. Taft (1857-1919) who recognized the need to defend the harbors of Honolulu. Later in his life he was elected as the 27th president.