Volcanoe from Random records of a lifetime, 1846-1931.

Random records of a lifetime, 1846-1931.

Volcanoe.

Some Polynesian traditions include the belief that volcanoes are ruled by Pele, the Hawaiian Goddess of volcanoes and fire. It’s even said that she used volcanoes to form the islands of Hawaii, and because of this long strands of volcanic glass are sometimes called “Pele’s Hair!” According to tradition, Pele’s anger brings about eruptions, and she could form volcanoes by the mere stamping of her feet. She would dig with her pa’oa, a magical stick, and spark eruptions of fire and lava. This kind of power meant that she was both honored and feared. Traditions like the goddess Pele were created by people to help explain majestic and strange features like volcanos in the world.