Journal Published Online: 01 March 1997
Volume 42, Issue 2

The Search for Father Bachelot: First Catholic Missionary to the Hawaiian Islands (1827–1837)

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to determine if the remains of Father Bachelot, leader of the first Catholic missionary group to the Hawaiian Islands, can be identified among the commingled human skeletal remains brought back from Pohnpei, Caroline Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, in 1977. An osteological/forensic examination of these remains, a review of the literature, interviews with leaders of the expedition, and ancillary considerations suggest that, in all probability, none of the skeletal remains from Pohnpei are those of Father Bachelot.

Father Alexis Bachelot, born in France, in 1796, was leader of the first Catholic missionary group to the Hawaiian Islands. He died in 1837, after being exiled from the Hawaiian Kingdom. His remains were buried on the small islet of Na, off the coast of Pohnpei, the same year. An expedition to Pohnpei in 1977, to recover the remains of Father Bachelot, resulted in the recovery of several sets of commingled remains which are the subject of this study.

A detailed osteological/forensic study of these remains indicates the presence of at least ten individuals, including two subadults, two adult females, and six adult males. Stature estimates, the presence of osseous changes suggestive of treponemal disease, and other cranial, dental, and skeletal features are more consistent with Pohnpean than European ancestry. The presence of shell beads and other mortuary features strengthens this assertion. Recommendations for any future attempts to recover the remains of this famous personage are made.

Author Information

Pietrusewsky, M
University of Hawai'i-at-Mānoa, Honolulu, HI
Willacker, LM
University of Hawai'i-at-Mānoa, Honolulu, HI
Pages: 5
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS14099J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS14099J