The “Glorious Fourth” Honolulu 1882

The “Glorious Fourth” (Honolulu 1882)

Source: Daily Bulletin: Honolulu. Wednesday, July 5, 1882

Yesterday was the “Glorious Fourth,” and right gloriously was it celebrated by all Americans and descendants of American residents in Honolulu. And not only by Americans, but other foreigners of other nationalities represented here, as well as native Hawaiians, joined in the celebration with enthusiasm.

The published programme was pretty fully carried out. The first salute was fired at sunrise, repeated at noon, and again boomed out at sunset. The morning salute was the signal for the parade of the “Antiques and Horribles,” who appeared in considerable numbers garbed in endless varieties of grotesque costumes, and marched through the principal streets of the city, affording much amusement to old and young, and exciting many a hearty, health-inspiring laugh.

Next came the boat race at nine o’clock, which did not draw a large crowd, owing probably to the desire of the multitude to be in time at the great centre of attraction out on the plains; for at this hour and even earlier, the people could be seen wending their way along King Street in the direction of Waikiki.

At 11 o’clock A.M. began the exercises and amusements proper of the day. By this hour a great company of both sexes, all ages, and all nationalities had collected together –on the beautiful grounds of Mr. Samuel Carter, King Street South. Here the Committee had made every preparation for the accommodation, comfort, and enjoyment of all. An extensive floor had been laid down for dancing, a spacious shed erected, and swings and merry-go-rounds put up for the benefit of the young.

The oration –an able and eloquent production- was delivered by the Rev. J.A. Cruzan. Mr. Jas. B. Castle read the Declaration of Independence admirably. A fine choir supplied some first-class vocal music, and Prof. Berger was on hand throughout the day to enliven and soothe with the melodious strains of the Royal Hawaiian Band.

Refreshments in rich abundance were served out shortly after one o’clock, to all whose appetites prompted the acceptance of this bounteous hospitality. Dancing and other amusements followed, the varied programme furnishing something to suit all tastes. The Committee are particularly entitled to the thanks of fathers and mothers and lovers of children for the provision made for the entertainment of the little ones. It should also be noted that the public were invited –Americans and non-Americans- and that all other nationalities participated as freely in the enjoyments of the day as the Americans themselves.

The Ball in the evening, which was held in the Music Hall, was a brilliant affair –an appropriate finale of the day’s programme.