History of Tiki Totem Poles

While tiki totem poles first gained popularity in the United States during the 1950s and 60s, they are a traditional feature of Polynesian cultures. Dating back hundreds of years, they gained popularity in the post-WWII era when US servicemen returned home from deployment in the islands. If you are interested in learning more about the history of tiki totem poles, then read on.

Tiki totem poles

Tiki totem poles are common all over the Pacific and Pacific rim. They are common in the state of Hawaii, other Polynesian islands and even New Zealand. While they seem to conjure up images of religious ceremony, tiki totem poles are really more similar to a big, public history book. However, they are frequently found at the entrance to religious or ceremonial sites. The exact meaning of many humanoid tiki figures is unknown, but they are generally thought to represent Polynesian gods. No one knows exactly when the practice of carving tiki totem poles began, but some experts hypothesize that most extant tiki poles are 300 years old or less.

Tiki totem poles today

Most modern tiki totem poles imitate traditional tiki forms but do not necessarily convey any particular meaning. Instead, they are used to represent an ideal, relaxed island lifestyle and tropical weather. Modern sculptors also create tiki totem poles as cultural gifts for institutions or states.

The use or tiki totem poles began hundreds of years ago and continues today. While they are traditionally used to convey historic or symbolic messages, today they are primarily used for decorative reasons.