What is Falealupo and where is it located?

Falealupo is identified as a village and an electoral constituency within the Vaisigano district of Samoa. It is situated at the westernmost end of Savai'i island, approximately 20 miles (32 km) from the International Date Line prior to December 29, 2011.

What are the two primary settlements within Falealupo, and how are they situated?

Falealupo consists of two main settlements: Falealupo-Uta and Falealupo-Tai. Falealupo-Uta is located inland, adjacent to the main island highway, while Falealupo-Tai is situated closer to the sea.

What is the population of Falealupo according to the provided data?

As of 2016, the population of Falealupo was recorded as 545 individuals.

What unique distinction did Falealupo hold regarding the sunset before 2011?

Due to its geographical position in western Samoa, east of the International Date Line, Falealupo was described as "the last village in the world to see the sunset of each day." This status changed when Samoa shifted the International Date Line eastward in 2011.

What factors have led to families moving inland from the coastal settlement of Falealupo-Tai?

Families have relocated inland to Falealupo-Uta for greater convenience due to its proximity to the main road and public transportation. Additionally, significant damage to the coastal village from cyclones in the early 1990s, which left behind old church ruins, contributed to this shift.

What natural attractions can be found in the Falealupo area?

The Falealupo area features natural attractions such as rock pools, caves, and sandy beaches, offering a glimpse into the island's coastal environment.

What amenities are available in Falealupo-Uta?

Falealupo-Uta provides basic amenities including small shops and facilities for international money transfers, such as Western Union.

What type of accommodation is available at Falealupo-Tai?

Falealupo-Tai offers traditional beach fale accommodation, which are simple huts or structures typically located near the beach, providing a local lodging experience for visitors. A shop is also available in this settlement.

Administratively, what divisions does Falealupo belong to?

Falealupo is part of the Falealupo Electoral Constituency, which itself is a component of the larger political district of Vaisigano.

Who is Cardinal Pio Taofinu'u, and what is his connection to Falealupo?

Cardinal Pio Taofinu'u (1923–2006) was the first Polynesian bishop and cardinal. He was born in Falealupo and received his early education at the village school.

In what context is Falealupo mentioned in Samoan mythology?

Falealupo is referenced in various myths and legends within Samoan mythology, particularly concerning spiritual realms and the origins of cultural practices.

According to legend, where is the gateway to the underworld Pulotu located in Falealupo?

The legend states that the gateway to Pulotu, the underworld where the spirits of the deceased (aitu) reside, is located at the Fafā-o-Sauali’i. This is described as an outcropping of volcanic rocks at the farthest point of the peninsula in Falealupo.

Who is Saveasi'uleo, and what is his significance in Samoan mythology?

Saveasi'uleo is identified as the ruler of Pulotu, the underworld. He is also known as the father of Nafanua, a prominent goddess associated with Falealupo.

Who is Nafanua, and what are her domains?

Nafanua is a goddess originating from Falealupo, revered for her association with war, fertility, and tattooing. She is considered a protector of her home village.

What is the legendary origin of the Samoan tattoo (tatau) in Falealupo?

The tradition of the tatau is believed to have been introduced to Samoa in Falealupo by two sisters, Taema and Tilafaiga, who brought the practice from Fiti. Their story is often recounted in the Tatau Samoa Song.

How did the legend of Taema and Tilafaiga's song regarding the tatau change?

Initially, the song brought by Taema and Tilafaiga suggested that only women should receive the tatau. However, upon reaching Falealupo and encountering a large clam, the song's message shifted to indicate that men, rather than women, should be the recipients of the tattoo.

What is the meaning and origin of the Samoan proverb 'e au le inailau a tamaitai'?

The proverb 'e au le inailau a tamaitai' originates from an ancient Samoan legend about a group of women in Falealupo who successfully completed the thatching of a fale's roof before the men did. It signifies the strong work ethic and determination of Samoan women in achieving their goals, underscoring their valued contributions to the community.

What significant natural resource does Falealupo's land encompass?

The land belonging to Falealupo includes substantial areas of lowland rainforest, which are a vital part of the island's ecosystem.

How is land ownership typically managed in Samoa, and how does this apply to Falealupo?

In Samoa, the majority of land is owned communally by villages under a system of customary land, which is managed by family 'matai' (chiefs). This customary ownership structure applies to the lands in Falealupo, including its rainforests.

What ultimatum did the Samoan government present to Falealupo in 1990 regarding education?

In 1990, the Samoan government gave the village of Falealupo a choice: either build a better school facility or face the removal of teachers, which would result in their children not receiving an education. This highlighted the shared responsibility for education between villages and the government.

Why did the villagers of Falealupo initially consider selling logging rights to their rainforests?

With the local economy primarily based on subsistence farming and fishing, and lacking other revenue sources, the villagers were compelled to consider selling logging rights to their rainforests to generate the necessary funds to build a new school as demanded by the government.

Who intervened to prevent the logging of the Falealupo rainforest, and what was the agreement?

Paul Alan Cox, an American ethnobotanist who had lived in the village, intervened upon learning about the planned logging. He negotiated with the village chiefs, promising to raise funds for the school in exchange for a covenant to protect the 30,000-acre rainforest.

What was established as a result of the conservation agreement for the Falealupo rainforest?

The conservation agreement led to the construction of the Falealupo Rainforest School. Additionally, Paul Cox, Ken Murdock, and Rex Maughan were honored with matai titles in recognition of their contributions to this effort.

What recognition did Paul Alan Cox receive for his conservation work in Falealupo?

In 1997, Paul Alan Cox, along with High Chief Fuiono Senio, was awarded the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize for their work in protecting the Falealupo rainforest. Cox donated his portion of the prize money to Seacology.

How does Seacology support the Falealupo rainforest conservation efforts?

Seacology uses funds, like the donation from Paul Cox, to maintain the Falealupo Rainforest Canopy Aerial Walkway. They also funded and constructed a new aluminum tower for the walkway after the original wooden one deteriorated.

What was the purpose of the Falealupo Rainforest Canopy Aerial Walkway?

The walkway was funded by Seacology and is owned and operated by the village. Its purpose was to help the community generate revenue through eco-tourism, supporting local livelihoods.

What long-term commitment did the village of Falealupo make regarding its rainforest?

At the dedication of the aerial walkway, the village announced its intention to extend the initial 50-year covenant and pledged to protect the rainforest in perpetuity, signifying a lasting commitment to conservation.

What matai title was bestowed upon Paul Cox, and why?

In 1989, Paul Cox was granted the matai chief title 'Nafanua' by Falealupo. This honor was given in recognition of his significant work and contributions towards the conservation of the village's rainforest.

How were village elders supported by the canopy walkway revenues?

Starting in January 2000, monthly tourist revenues generated from the aerial canopy walkway were allocated to fund a modest retirement fund for the village elders, providing them with financial support in their later years.

What led to the closure of the canopy walkway in 2008, and how was it resolved?

The canopy walkway was closed in February 2008 due to rot affecting the 10-meter wooden tower that provided access to the aerial rope walkway and platforms in a large banyan tree. Seacology funded and built a new aluminum tower, which was completed and opened on June 10, 2010, allowing the walkway to reopen.

What is the location and access procedure for the Falealupo rainforest walkway?

The entrance to the Falealupo rainforest walkway is situated approximately 2 kilometers from the main road, along the route towards Falealupo Tai. Visitors are required to pay a modest fee, set by the village, to access and ascend the walkway.

Who is John Schuster, and what is his connection to Falealupo?

John Schuster is a notable individual from Falealupo who played for the All Blacks, the national rugby union team of New Zealand. His Samoan heritage connects him to the village.

Who is Leo Lafaiali'i, and what are his rugby achievements?

Leo Lafaiali'i, who hails from Falealupo, is a rugby union player for Manu Samoa, the national team of Samoa. He also previously played for the Auckland Blues, a professional rugby team in New Zealand.

What is King Kapisi's significance in the music industry and his connection to Falealupo?

King Kapisi is a prominent hip hop artist in New Zealand, whose family holds the chief title of A'eau in Falealupo. His music video 'Reverse Resistance' was filmed in Falealupo and other locations in Savaii, and the song itself was the first hip hop track to win the APRA Silver Scroll Award in New Zealand.

Where is the grave of King Kapisi's great grandfather located?

The grave of King Kapisi's great grandfather, Aeau Fa'aloaga, is situated behind the new church in Falealupo-tai.

Aleni Smith is an Olympic judoka who represented Samoa and competed in the 2012 Summer Olympics. He is from Falealupo.

Who is Pio Toanfinu'u?

Pio Toanfinu'u is listed as the Archbishop of Samoa-Apia and the first Samoan Cardinal. He is noted as being from Falealupo.

What is the Central Savai'i Rainforest known for?

The Central Savai'i Rainforest is recognized as the largest continuous patch of rainforest found in Polynesia, highlighting its ecological importance in the region.

What is the significance of the Fafā-o-Sauali’i in Falealupo's legends?

The Fafā-o-Sauali’i, an outcropping of volcanic rocks at the peninsula's edge, is legendarily known as the portal to Pulotu, the underworld where spirits of the deceased reside.

What role did the 'matai' system play in the Falealupo rainforest conservation effort?

The matai, or chiefly heads of extended families, governed the customary land in Falealupo. It was through negotiations with these matai that Paul Alan Cox secured the covenant to protect the rainforest in exchange for funding the village school.

What is the purpose of the coordinates provided for Falealupo?

The coordinates (13°30′9″S 172°47′23″W) provide the precise geographical location of Falealupo, allowing for mapping and navigation. They are presented in both DMS (Degrees, Minutes, Seconds) and decimal degree formats.

What does the image caption 'Falealupo sunset' convey?

The image caption 'Falealupo sunset' refers to a photograph capturing the sunset in Falealupo, likely showcasing the village's scenic coastal environment.

What does the image caption 'Main road in the afternoon, Falealupo Tai' describe?

This caption refers to a photograph showing the main road within the Falealupo Tai settlement during the afternoon, illustrating a view of the village's infrastructure.

What does the image caption 'View of Falealupo rainforest canopy walkway and old wooden tower' depict?

This caption describes an image showcasing the Falealupo rainforest canopy walkway, highlighting the elevated pathway through the trees, and the associated old wooden tower structure.

What information is conveyed by the satellite image caption 'Satellite image of Falealupo at the west end of Savai'i island. (NASA photo 2009)'?

This caption indicates that the accompanying image is a satellite view of Falealupo, specifically showing its location at the western tip of Savai'i island, taken by NASA in 2009.

What does the image caption 'Falealupo beach fale, local owned tourist accommodation' illustrate?

This caption refers to a photograph depicting a beach fale in Falealupo, emphasizing that it is a form of tourist accommodation locally owned and operated by the community.

What does the image caption 'Looking west at the western tip of Savai'i' suggest?

This caption accompanies an image that provides a view looking westward towards the westernmost point of Savai'i island, likely showing the geography of the region where Falealupo is situated.

What is the significance of the 'fn org' tag in the infobox for Falealupo?

The 'fn org' tag in the infobox, followed by 'Falealupo', indicates that Falealupo is recognized as an organized entity, in this case, a village and constituency.

What does the 'ib-settlement-caption' div element typically contain within the infobox?

The 'ib-settlement-caption' div element is used to provide descriptive text for images associated with the settlement, such as identifying the subject of a photograph like a sunset or a village road.

What does the 'infobox-subheader' state about Falealupo?

The 'infobox-subheader' categorizes Falealupo as a 'Village & Electoral Constituency', defining its dual administrative and residential nature.

What does the 'infobox-label' and 'infobox-data' structure represent in the Falealupo infobox?

This structure pairs labels (like 'Country' or 'District') with corresponding data (like 'Samoa' or 'Vaisigano'), providing key factual details about Falealupo in a clear, organized format.

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Overview

Village Structure

Falealupo is a village located at the westernmost point of Savai'i island in Samoa. It comprises two primary settlements: Falealupo-Uta, situated inland along the main island highway, and Falealupo-Tai, located by the sea. The coastal settlement is accessible via a roughly 9 km road, largely unsealed, branching off the main highway.

Population & Demographics

As of the 2016 census, Falealupo had a total population of 545 residents. Families have increasingly moved inland to Falealupo-Uta for greater convenience, proximity to public transport, and due to damage sustained by the coastal village from cyclones in the early 1990s.

Local Amenities

Falealupo-Uta features small shops and essential services, including facilities for Western Union money transfer. In contrast, Falealupo-Tai offers traditional beach fale accommodations and a local shop, catering to visitors seeking a more immersive cultural experience.

Geographic Context

Strategic Position

Falealupo is situated at the western extremity of Savai'i island, approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) from the International Date Line. This unique positioning historically meant it was among the last places on Earth to experience the sunset each day.

Date Line Shift

Until December 29, 2011, Samoa's position east of the International Date Line gave Falealupo its distinction as the "last village in the world to see the sunset." However, the Samoan government subsequently shifted the International Date Line eastward, altering this geographical characteristic.

Coordinates: 13°30′9″S 172°47′23″W

Coastal Features

The area surrounding Falealupo is characterized by natural attractions including rock pools, caves, and sandy beaches. These features contribute to the scenic beauty and potential for eco-tourism in the region.

Historical Significance

A Village Shaped by Time

Falealupo's history is marked by significant events, including the impact of cyclones in the early 1990s that necessitated relocation and rebuilding efforts, particularly for the coastal settlement. The village's relationship with the International Date Line also played a notable role in its identity until the 2011 shift.

Political Context

The settlement is administratively part of the Falealupo Electoral Constituency, which falls under the broader political district of Vaisigano. This structure integrates the village into Samoa's national governance framework.

Cultural Heritage

Myths and Legends

Falealupo is deeply intertwined with Samoan mythology. The volcanic rock outcropping known as Fafā-o-Sauali’i is revered as the legendary gateway to Pulotu, the underworld realm inhabited by spirits. The village is also associated with the goddess Nafanua, a significant figure in Samoan lore.

The Art of Tatau

Legend attributes the introduction of the traditional Samoan tattoo, the 'tatau', to Falealupo, brought by the sisters Taema and Tilafaiga from Fiti. While initial legends suggested a song promoting female tattooing, a shift in the narrative upon arrival in Falealupo led to the practice being associated primarily with men.

The 'House of Rock' Proverb

The proverb "e au le inailau a tamaitai" ("the women's work is done") originates from a Falealupo legend where women completed the thatching of a house roof before the men. This saying highlights the esteemed work ethic and determination of Samoan women within their communities.

Rainforest Conservation

Protecting Pristine Lands

Falealupo encompasses significant tracts of lowland rainforest, largely under customary land ownership governed by village chiefs ('matai'). In the early 1990s, the village faced an ultimatum regarding school construction, leading to consideration of logging rights for the rainforest.

The Seacology Initiative

Ethnobotanist Paul Alan Cox, working with the village, established a partnership with Seacology. In exchange for funds to build a school, the village covenanted to protect its 30,000-acre rainforest. This initiative led to the construction of the Falealupo Rainforest School and the establishment of the Rainforest Canopy Aerial Walkway.

1997: The Falealupo Rainforest Canopy Aerial Walkway was dedicated, generating revenue through eco-tourism. Paul Cox and High Chief Fuiono Senio shared the Goldman Environmental Prize for their work.
Perpetuity Covenant: The village extended the initial 50-year covenant to protect the rainforest in perpetuity.
Elder Retirement Fund: Since 1999, revenues from the walkway have supported a retirement fund for village elders.
New Tower Construction: Following rot in the original wooden tower, Seacology funded and constructed a new aluminum tower, reopened in June 2010.

Recognition and Legacy

Paul Alan Cox was honored with the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize in 1997 for his role in establishing the rainforest covenant. He was also bestowed the traditional 'matai' chief title 'Nafanua' by Falealupo in recognition of his contributions.

Notable Individuals

Figures of Influence

Falealupo has been the birthplace or ancestral home of several notable individuals across various fields:

Cardinal Pio Taofinu'u: The first Polynesian bishop and cardinal, born in Falealupo.
John Schuster: Former player for the New Zealand national rugby union team, the All Blacks.
Leo Lafaiali'i: Represented Manu Samoa (Samoan national rugby team) and played for the Auckland Blues.
King Kapisi: A prominent New Zealand hip hop artist, whose family holds the A'eau chief title in Falealupo.
Aleni Smith: An Olympic judoka who competed in the 2012 Summer Olympics.

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References

Samoa was just to the east of the International Date Line until 30 December 2011 at 10:00 UTC.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Falealupo Wikipedia page

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Important Information

This page has been generated by an AI model for educational and informational purposes. The content is derived from publicly available data and aims to present it in an accessible format. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the source material, it may not encompass all nuances or the most current information.

Cultural Sensitivity Advisory: This content discusses cultural heritage, myths, and traditions. It is presented with respect, but interpretations may vary. Always approach cultural information with sensitivity and consult primary sources or cultural experts for deeper understanding.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein. This content does not constitute professional advice of any kind.

Falealupo: Echoes of Polynesia

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Overview ℹ️

🛖 Village Structure

👥 Population & Demographics

🛍️ Local Amenities

Geographic Context 🗺️

📍 Strategic Position

⏳ Date Line Shift

🌊 Coastal Features

Historical Significance 📜

🕰️ A Village Shaped by Time

🏛️ Political Context

Cultural Heritage 🌺

🌌 Myths and Legends

✒️ The Art of Tatau

💪 The 'House of Rock' Proverb

Rainforest Conservation 🌳

🌿 Protecting Pristine Lands

🤝 The Seacology Initiative

🏆 Recognition and Legacy

Notable Individuals 👑

⭐ Figures of Influence

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Information

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Village Structure

Population & Demographics

Local Amenities

Geographic Context

Strategic Position

Date Line Shift

Coastal Features

Historical Significance

A Village Shaped by Time

Political Context

Cultural Heritage

Myths and Legends

The Art of Tatau

The 'House of Rock' Proverb

Rainforest Conservation

Protecting Pristine Lands

The Seacology Initiative

Recognition and Legacy

Notable Individuals

Figures of Influence

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Information