Mare history

Ancient Roots and the Discovery of the Island

The history of Mare (in the local language — Nengone) dates back to ancient times. Long before European navigators appeared on maps, these lands were inhabited by Melanesian tribes, bearers of the ancient Lapita culture. For the indigenous people, the island has always been the centre of a distinct civilisation with a complex social structure.

For the Western world, Mare was discovered in the late 18th — early 19th century. One of the first Europeans to mark the island on a map was Captain William Raven in 1793, who named it Britannia. However, the modern name became established later, during a period of active contact with traders and travellers.

Development and Formation Factors

The transformation of Mare into a significant settlement in the Loyalty Islands region was driven by several key circumstances:

• Geographical Location: Mare is a raised coral atoll with precipitous shores and lagoons. The specific landscape and relative isolation contributed to the preservation of unique traditions and a way of life, protecting the inhabitants from external threats.
• Sandalwood Trade: In the first half of the 19th century, the island attracted the attention of traders seeking valuable sandalwood. This became the first significant economic interaction with the outside world, bringing new tools and goods to the island.
• Religious Influence: A crucial stage in history was the arrival of missionaries in the 1840s. The activities of the London Missionary Society, and later Catholic missions, had a tremendous influence on the cultural code of the population, education, and the architecture of local settlements.

Early Cultural Features

Traditional Mare society was historically built around the Grand Chefferie (Grand Chieftaincy) system. This strict hierarchical power structure played a decisive role in land management and resolving social issues. The early economy was based on subsistence farming: cultivating yams, taro, and fishing, which reflected the deep spiritual and practical connection of the inhabitants with the island's nature.

Key Milestones in the History of Mare

• Circa 1100 BC — First settlement of the island by representatives of the Lapita culture, who became the ancestors of the modern Kanaks.
• 1793 — British Captain William Raven discovers the island for Europeans and names it "Britannia".
• 1800s — The beginning of active sandalwood trade, attracting European merchants and sailors to the shores of Mare.
• 1841 — Landing of the first Protestant missionaries from the London Society, marking the beginning of the spread of Christianity.
• 1864 — The island officially comes under French administration, becoming part of its colonial possessions in the Pacific.
• 1866 — Arrival of Catholic missionaries, which formed the dual religious map of the island that persists to this day.
• 1916 — Many residents of Mare voluntarily join the Pacific Battalion to participate in the First World War.
• 1946 — New Caledonia receives the status of an overseas territory, and the inhabitants of Mare gain French citizenship.
• 1969 — Mare receives the status of a full-fledged commune with local municipal administration.
• 1989 — As a result of administrative reform, the island becomes part of the newly formed Loyalty Islands Province.
• Early 1990s — The inception of the tradition of holding major agricultural and cultural festivals, such as the Avocado Festival.
• Modern Stage — Development of eco-tourism and cruise connections, opening the unique nature of Mare to travellers from all over the world.

Stages of Mare's Formation and Development

The island's development followed a unique path, where the preservation of traditions was closely intertwined with the introduction of modern technologies and administrative reforms. Here are the key milestones that defined the modern appearance of Mare:

• Missionary Activity and Architectural Appearance (from 1841)
  The arrival of missionaries brought not only a new religion but also construction technologies. Monumental stone churches rose along the coast, becoming architectural landmarks and new centres of social life in traditional villages (tribes).
• Obtaining Commune Status (1969)
  Gaining the status of a full-fledged administrative unit was a turning point in urban planning. The appearance of a local mayor and budget allowed for the systemic electrification of the island, the installation of water pipelines, and the improvement of the road network between scattered settlements.
• Administrative Reform and Autonomy (1989)
  The creation of the Loyalty Islands Province gave the region significant financial and political independence. This led to the large-scale construction of social facilities: colleges, medical dispensaries, and sports facilities, improving the quality of life for the local population.
• Modernisation of Tadine Port
  Turning Tadine into the island's main transport hub ensured a stable connection with "Grande Terre" (the main island). The reconstruction of the wharves allowed for the reception of high-speed passenger catamarans and cargo ships, which is critical for supplying the island with goods.
• Development of La Roche Airport
  The construction and subsequent modernisation of the airport opened Mare to rapid communication. This not only simplified travel for residents but also became the foundation for the development of classic tourism, allowing guests to reach here from Nouméa in just 40 minutes.
• Birth of the Festival Economy (1990s)
  The launch of annual agricultural festivals, the main one being the "Avocado Festival" in Nece, transformed the economy. Agriculture received a powerful market stimulus, and the island acquired its unique tourism brand, attracting thousands of visitors.
• Integration into Cruise Tourism
  In recent decades, Mare has become a popular stop for international cruise liners. This stimulated the development of small businesses: from organising excursions and transfers to selling souvenirs and local delicacies in the port area.

Architectural Appearance: From Huts to Coral Temples

The architecture and urban planning of Mare differ significantly from familiar European standards. Here you will not find dense urban development, high-rise buildings, or lavish Baroque-style palaces. The island's appearance was shaped by the traditional Kanak way of life, 19th-century missionary activity, and the harsh tropical climate conditions.

The island's development is dispersed: instead of classic cities, there are tribes (tribal villages) concentrated around the chief's dwelling and religious centres.

Main Architectural Eras and Styles

The development of architecture on the island can be divided into three key stages, each of which has left its mark on the landscape of Mare:

• Traditional Architecture (from ancient times to the present day)
  The basis of local urban planning is the Case — the traditional Kanak hut.
  • Style: Organic architecture.
  • Features: A round base, a conical thatched roof, and the use of wood and plant fibres. In the centre of the settlement, there is usually a "Grande Case" — the large hut of the chief, led to by a central alley framed by pines or palms.
  • Significance: This is not just a dwelling, but a symbol of social hierarchy and connection with ancestors.
• Missionary Period (mid-19th — early 20th century)
  With the arrival of European missionaries, the construction of monumental stone structures began on the island.
  • Style: Adapted colonial style with elements of simplified Neo-Gothic and Classicism.
  • Features: The use of coral limestone blocks (due to a shortage of bricks), massive walls for protection against cyclones, and lancet or arched windows. These buildings are often painted white and serve as visual landmarks of the villages.
  • Iconic Objects: Monumental churches and temples in coastal settlements, for example, the Protestant temple in Tadine.
• Modern Functional Development (from the late 20th century)
  Infrastructure development led to the appearance of administrative and public buildings.
  • Style: Functional modernism.
  • Features: The use of concrete, metal, and modern composite materials. Buildings are typically one or two stories high, designed with seismic resistance and wind loads in mind.
  • Examples: The Town Hall building in Tadine, the La Roche airport terminal, college buildings, and medical centres.

Urban Structure

The administrative centre of the island, Tadine, represents the most urbanised zone. Port infrastructure, shops, and administration are concentrated here. However, even Tadine retains the features of a "garden city", where buildings are immersed in tropical greenery, and the boundaries between streets and the natural landscape remain blurred.

Distinguished Figures of Mare

The history of the island is inextricably linked with the names of great chiefs, educators, and modern cultural figures who have made a significant contribution to the development of society and the preservation of Mare (Nengone) traditions.

• Naiseline Nidoish I
  Grand Chief (Grand Chef) of the Guahma district, 19th century
  A key historical figure of the island. It was he who accepted the first Protestant missionaries of the London Society in 1841. His decision opened Mare to foreign trade, education, and Christianity, forever changing the way of life of the local population.
• John Jones
  Missionary and linguist, (1829–1908)
  A British pastor who dedicated a significant part of his life to serving on Mare. His main historical merit is the translation of the Bible into the local language Nengone, which contributed not only to religious enlightenment but also to the preservation of the island's linguistic structure.
• Dick Ukeiwé
  Politician and Senator, (1928–2013)
  A native of Mare who became a prominent statesman. He went down in history as the first Kanak elected to the French Senate. Ukeiwé played an important role in the political integration of the region and the development of local self-government in the second half of the 20th century.
• Marie-Claude Tjibaou
  Public figure and defender of culture
  Born on the island of Mare. She is one of the most influential women in Melanesia, having dedicated her life to preserving Kanak heritage. For many years, she headed the Agency for the Development of Kanak Culture (ADCK) and oversaw the work of the Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre.
• Pierre Gope
  Playwright and director
  A modern arts figure from the Penelo tribe. He is considered one of the leading playwrights of Oceania. His plays, combining traditional myths with modern problems, are staged in New Caledonia and France, broadcasting the voice of Mare residents to the whole world.
• Fote Trolue
  Lawyer and Judge
  A native of Mare who became the first Kanak to hold the post of magistrate (judge) in the French judicial system. His career became a symbol of access for the indigenous population to high state and legal positions.