Cowboys of Hawaii

Did you know the first cowboys in America were probably in Hawai’i? The history of the “paniolo,” the Hawaiian cowboy, is one aspect of Hawaii’s cultural heritage that often gets overlooked.

The story begins in 1795, when the British Sea Captain, George Vancouver, gifted a few head of Mexican Longhorn cattle to King Kamehameha, as an offering of friendship. The King protected them, allowing them to multiply and roam the islands untouched for 40 years. Eventually, the herd grew to thousands, creating a need for instruction in handling and managing the descendents of those first few cattle.

The word “paniolo” evolved from the word “Espanol” (Spanish) that was used in the early years in referring to the vaqueros. Today, “paniolo” is a term used with well-earned respect and admiration in describing the Hawaiian, or Hawai’i-born, cowboy working on island ranches. Here on Maui there are several ranches– Haleakala, ‘Ulupalakua, Kaupo, Pi’iholo, and Hana Ranch. Our UpCountry ranches are incredibly beautiful. The elevation is perfect. The weather is perfect. The views are some of the best coastal views on Earth. And the people — the people are the friendliest on Earth.

The artwork in this collection is printed on acid-free watercolor paper, double matted, and available framed in Koa wood. Remember that our guaranteed safe shipping is absolutely free on all orders shipped within the United States!