The Fourth of July: Honolulu, 1866

 NOTES OF THE WEEK: FOURTH OF JULY

Pacific Commercial Advertiser: Thursday, July 7, 1866

The Ninetieth Anniversary of American Independence was ushered in at midnight by the loud roar of cannon, under the direction of Young Hawaii, and the less exciting noise of fire-crackers, accompanied with the singing and hurrahs of sleepless serenaders, who appeared perfectly familiar with “John Brown’s Soul,” “Marching Through Georgia,” and other popular songs. The day dawned beautifully, and the sun rose with majestic splendor over our eastern hills, spreading his bright rays over city, plain and sea. As the day advanced and the sun rose higher, the cool trade winds blew fresh from the moist mountain tops, and the clouds spread a welcome veil that tempered the heat and made the scene Edenlike. It was a fit day for the remembrance of so noble a cause, and every one seemed to feel the inspiration of its holy atmosphere.

At an early hour, flags were displayed from flagstaffs and across the streets, presenting a holiday aspect not often seen here. The shipping in the harbor was gaily decked, but the clipper Star of the Union and the bark Palmetto lying in the offlug, surpassed them. Every mast of these two vessels, from the deck to the truck, was literally covered with gay bunting. From our lookout, we counted over seventy flags in the town, comprising Hawaiian, American, English, French, Russian, Italian, Dutch, Hamburg, Bremen, Hanovarian, Oldenburg, Chilian, Peruvian and others.

Owing to the recent death and burial of the Princess Royal, the usual demonstration was omitted, and the day was celebrated in a more quiet way, and doubtless every Man, woman and child enjoyed it full as well as last year, when so much display was made. Numerous picnics were held in the valleys and outskirts of the city, which were well attended and heartily enjoyed by all. At noon, a national salute was fired. As usual horse riding was the principal feature of the afternoon’s enjoyment, which was freely indulged in by all classes.

In the evening and impromptu dance took place at Concert Hall on Nuuanu street, at which were present His Ex. Mr. Burlingame and lady, His Ex. Gen. Van Valkenburg, His Ex. Dr. M’Bride, and many ladies and gentlemen. The Hall was very tastefully decorated, considering the short notice given. Dancing commenced at half past eight, and was kept up without cessation till 12, when the guests repaired to the supper table, laden with the choicest of Honolulu productions. After supper dancing renewed, and continued till half past one.

During the evening fireworks and rockets were exhibited in various parts of the town, and at times kept the sky fairly illuminated with their red, white and blue glare.