Ahnko Honu
Well-known member
My Dad back in 1957 3 years before I was born picked up a Kamaka pineapple and as long as I can remember that pineapple Kamaka sat at the ready above Dad's bed for ready action usually on Friday night Pau Hana parties. I remember he lent it out to a so called friend back over 30 years ago, and this friend proceeded to lose it and never offered to reimburse my Dad. My Dad was way too cool and let it slide. I really missed that old Kamaka and had been looking for a replacement ever since moving back into this old homestead. 2 days ago in the local Craigslist I saw an ad for a Kamaka with case good condition for $400 or offer. I could not afford this amount but I could dig up $300 so I emailed the seller who lived just 10 minutes away, and made my offer. He said meet him at a local restaurant (ZIPPY'S) and I could take a look before I decide. When I got to Zippy's a saw this guy pull up on a bike with 2 'ukulele cases. He was the seller and he handed me the Kamaka pineapple, and he busted out what was in his other case a KoAloha Tenor, and he he asked if I like kanikapila, so we played a few cords then he said he was glad I was a player, and not a collector. I told him the story of my Dad and he felt this sale was meant to be. I looked over the Kamaka and saw finish wear on the neck, and fret wear especially the first 3 frets which is great, this ukulele was played. She had a few minor dings but no cracks, and the case had wear but was still serviceable. She had old strings but still sounds good. I have clear Worths, Ko'olau Golds, Aquilas, or red Kalas to choose from to re string her. There was a date on the case hand written '72 so I know at least this old. Before I took off he let me play his KoAloha Tenor, and I was mesmerized by the beautiful tone, first KoAloha I ever played, and I was really blown away, gotta get one one day. Now a Kamaka pineapple once again resides in the old Kailua homestead, and I think Dad would be happy to know this. Now I need to learn the same songs Dad used to play on those Friday nights so long ago. Thanks Dad for instilling in me the love of the 'ukulele.