|
|
|
The Reef Islands lie in the Eastern Solomon Islands and are part of the
Santa Cruz Island Group. The large island of Santa Cruz was discovered
by Mendana,a Spanish explorer, in 1595 on his second journey to the Pacific.
Largely forgotten, it was re-discovered by the English explorer, Carteret,
in 1767 aboard the HMS Swallow. Santa Cruz (also called "Ndeni") is known
for its feather money made from the red feathers of the honey bird.
The Reef Islands lie northeast of Santa Cruz Island. Here the missionary,
John Patteson, of the London Missionary Society was killed by natives
on the tiny island of Nupani in 1871. (Go to Link: Bishop John Patteson)
to learn about his life. This site also links to other sites.) Tinakula,
an active volcanic island, is about 25 miles west of the Reef Islands.
The Solomon Islands became a British Protectorate in the late 1800's.
During World War II, the Solomons were the scene of much heavy fighting,
especially at Guadalcanal. The Santa Cruz Island Group was also
involved in some of the war-time operations. At Graciosa Bay at Santa Cruz
there was a Navy Catalina PBY (Flying Boat) base. To the north of the
Reef Islands, The Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands took place.
In 1978, the Solomon Islands became an officially independentcountry. The island of Santa Cruz is now called Temotu Island
and the Santa Cruz Islands are in the Temotu Province.
For information about the Solomons , go to Link: Solomon Islands.
|
| Map prepared by Larry Leach |
| Go to Top of Page |
The Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands
October 26, 1942
Carrier Enterprise in battle.
Battleship South Dakota supplied much anti-aircraft fire.
Roll on, Pacific; waves of blue,
Beneath God's sky of varied hues
For 'neath your waters foaming crests
Our brave have found eternal rest.
Oh may our Nation long recall
These men who gave their best, their all.
Amen
Carrier Hornet under attack.
(Go to Next Page)