A Visit to Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, in 1868

Abstract

THIS little island, which has been rendered celebrated by the gigantic stone images which are so plelltiful in it, is also so isolated as to require the special notice that it is.in27? 8' s. lat., and 109?24' w. long., about 2000 miles from the South American coast, and 1000 from Pitcairn Isla:rld, or the Gambier Islands.It is mentioned in the voyages of many navigators, who in their llotices of it do not always agree.In the account of the voyages of Captain Cook, the names there given to the island we found to be those of districts in it.I has-e given the native name, which originates from the fact, that many generations ago, a large migration to it took place from the island of Oparo, or Rapa-iti (Sma]l Rapa).This island is about 1900 miles due west of Easter Island, which from its greater size was called Rapa Nui or Great Rapa.In length it is about 12 miles, and in breadth 4 miles, somewhat like a cocked-hat in shape, the base towards the south; the ends are high and bluS, and there is a tall hill, 105() feet, an extinct crater in its centre.It is of volcanic origin, and abounds in craters, but these have been estinct for so long that no tradition of their activity remains.As they are of interest, I lnay mention the position and names of some of these craters.