Research Summary
Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Chile — The massive stone sculptures (or moai) that dot this remote Polynesian island have perplexed centuries of explorers. Usually facing the vast, open ocean, the statues offer mute testimony to a vanished civilization. These famous giant heads are not the entire story of Rapa Nui, however. Come probe the past to discover what forces led to disastrous changes here in the 17th century, ending a millennium of peace and prosperity that had been secured through innovative farming techniques.
Meet the Scientists
Dr. Christopher M. Stevenson
Virginia Department of Historic Resources
Dr. Stevenson, age 55, is Regional Archaeologist at the Virginia Department of Historic Resources in Richmond, Virginia. He received his B.A. degree in Anthropology from Marquette University and his M.A. in Anthropology from Penn State University, both in 1979. He earned his Ph.D. in Anthropology from Penn State University in 1984, with a dissertation on the prehistory of Easter Island. During the Earthwatch expeditions, Dr. Stevenson serves as project director, logistics director, island guide and lithic analyst, and is responsible for obsidian hydration dating. His interests outside of anthropology include restoring old houses, stamp collecting, the study of wine, and fishing.
Sonia Haoa
Virginia Department of Historic Resources
Ms. Haoa, age 54, was born on Rapa Nui, attended the University of Chile (1985-1988) and has participated on scores of foreign research projects over the years and has had a long association with Earthwatch. As a result, she is intimately familiar with island’s archaeology and Earthwatch volunteers. Sonia speaks English, Spanish and Rapa Nui. She and her family run the Hotel O’tai in the center of town, one of the first residencias on the island. She is responsible for the archaeological survey, artifact analysis and global positioning system (GPS), and also serves as a director and island guide.
Thegn Ladefoged
University of Auckland, New Zealand
Mr. Ladefoged, age 48, is an Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of Auckland, New Zealand, and is currently the department head. Thegn has an extensive background in Polynesian archaeology, acquired through field work in New Zealand and in Hawaii looking at the development of ancient agricultural systems. He will be responsible for portions of the survey and excavation program and will develop GIS models of Rapa Nui’s settlement pattern.