Tomorrow March 26 we celebrate Prince Kuhio Day.
I thought I'd let everyone know a little bit of history about this beloved Hawaiian Prince.
Prince Kuhio was born on Kauai but grew up on Oahu and attended Punahou School in Honolulu. He also had further education in Europe and California. At the age of 24 he was involved in the attempt to restore the Hawaiian Monarchy after the overthrow but was imprisoned for his role in the attempt at restoration. After he was released he traveled with his wife widely through Europe and was received as a royal. He fought in the Second Boer War for England.
Finally returning to his homeland he began a life in politics serving Hawaii. He is most noted for the introduction of Hawaiian Statehood Act in 1919 although it was 40 years later that actual statehood was granted. The Hawaiian Homes Commission Act was passed during his time in Congress despite his objection to the high blood quantum requirement and that the land would only be granted as leasehold not fee simple. Prince Kuhio reorganized the Order of Kamehameha in 1903 and they honor him every year here on Maui by giving a lecture about his life and contributions to his people. Prince Kuhio was the founder of the Hawaiian Civic Club in 1918. He passed away in January of 1922.
Many times in Hawaii we see famous landmarks named after our Hawaiian Royalty but know little about them. I hope you enjoyed getting to know more about Prince Kuhio and this will interest you in knowing more about the Hawaiian Monarchy and Hawaiian History.
With Aloha,
Gina Duncan, R (S) ABR, e-Pro, SFR
