Up Close With These Colorful Warriors

The huli wigmen don't mind perpetuating the myth of their man-eating ways if it keeps the missionaries at bay, but the truth be told -- they are warm and gentle people who would never harm a visitor to their land. The Hulis do have a history of small territorial disputes -- they fight over three things -- land, pigs and women -- in that order. A Huli "big man" will need plenty of each -- land for farming, pigs as a measure of wealth and a number of wives to tend to the lot.

You be delighted to visit several villages and meet the folks. Some of the men are "educated" and speak English very well. After experiencing western culture and traveling through the modern world, these gentlemen prefer to live in their native villages without the myriad distractions and indulgences of our complex societies. Life is simple in the highland village. There is plenty of good food, close-knit families and a greater respect for the wonders of nature.

Huli traditions are as old as the hills. Young men venture into the jungle alone for months to prove their manhood, exercising their hunting techniques and developing the skills that will earn them respect within the community.

During this period of self-sufficiency, the young men grow their hair long in preparation for creating their first wig.

Before special gatherings and seasonal events, Huli wigmen spend hours preparing their costumes and make-up, complete with ceremonial wigs and accessories. This scene resembles backstage at a Las Vegas show -- dozens of men are finishing their face and body make-up, adjusting the feathers in their wigs, and helping each other with all the minute details of costuming before the celebration begins. Preparation materials include clay and flowers, bird feathers and bones, various plant oils, hand-woven fabrics and threads, precious stones and artifacts from the sea.

Beating their hand drums and dancing to prove they are not afraid of unseen spirits, these wigmen were honored to have guests from a far away land in their village.

Great People, Great Province !