Reseña

We obtained, through a continuous search over several months, descriptions of customs, both current and especially ancient, as they still live in the memory of some natives. Two individuals stand out for their special aptitude: Juan Rano Veriamo, known by the name Juan Tepano, and Mateo Veriveri. Juan Tepano, a descendant of the Tupahotu tribe, a man in his seventies, is one of those natives who retain the most detailed memories of ancient customs. His mother, who was around one hundred years old, was an eyewitness to ancient customs, now extinct. From this source, Juan Tepano has drawn his memories of the past and has been able to provide us with valuable details. We will forever hold feelings of affection and gratitude for him and the other natives who kindly and genuinely helped us in the study of the language and the collection of these texts. Hangaroa, Easter Island, April 6, 1936.

The edition is complemented by articles written by Rapanui historian Cristián Moreno Pakarati and Rapa Nui archaeology expert José Miguel Ramírez Aliaga.