July 4: Businesses to Close (The Polynesian, 1854)

Source: The Polynesian. Honolulu: Saturday, July 1 1854

By reference to the Programme and order of exercises in another column, it will be seen that great preparations are being made to celebrate the 4th in Honolulu; and for this purpose, we have been informed that it is the intention of business men generally, to close their places of business during the whole day. At this dull season of the year, we imagine nothing will be lost by such an arrangement. 

Mr. Gregg's Oration Requested (The Polynesian, 1854)

Source: The Polynesian. Honolulu: Saturday, July 15, 1854

As stated in our last, a vote was unanimously passed by the immense assembly on the 4th of July, thanking Mr. G. for his Oration, and requesting a copy for publication in the English and Hawaiian languages.

Subsequently, a Committee was named to carry out the design of the meeting, and the following correspondence will show what has been done in the matter.

The Oration is now in the hands of the Translator, and the whole will be issued in a pamphlet form, as soon as possible after the translation is completed.

HONOLULU, 6th July, 1854.

SIR, -It is our honorable duty, as a Committee by appointment, to make known to you, that the following resolution was passed by an unanimous vote, after the delivery of the Oration on the 4th inst., at the celebration of American Independence.

"RESOLVED, That the thanks of the American Residents be tendered to the Hon. David L. Gregg, for the very eloquent, patriotic and independent oration delivered this day, and that a copy of the same be requested for publication in English and Hawaiian, for gratuitous distribution."

Requesting your acceptance of the thanks tendered, the Committee would express their earnest wish that you should comply with the desire of the American residents, by furnishing us with a copy of the oration for publication.

We have the honor to remain your obedient servants,

BARNUM W. FIELD,

EDWIN O. HALL,

RICHARD COADY

HON. D.L. Gregg,
U.S. Commissioner,
&c. &c. &c., Honolulu.

__________________

REPLY OF MR. GREGG.

HONOLULU, July 8, 1854.

GENTLEMEN, - I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 6th inst., and as requested, to place in your hands for publication, a copy of the discourse pronounced by me on the late anniversary of American Independence. 

I am grateful to my countrymen for the kind manner in which they have testified their approval of my humble effort to do justice to the men and the principles of the revolution of 1776. I only claim the credit of a disposition to express and carry out, on all suitable occasions, the sentiments and policy which become an American citizen, -yielding to the "rest of mankind" a proper and considerate courtesy, but never submitting to the arrogance of those who hate our free institutions, and make it the business of their lives to misrepresent, to vilify and bring them into contempt. To such persons, whoever they may be, I profess no obligations, and for them, feel no respect. If what I thought it incumbent on me to say, places the stamp of falsehood upon their conduct, the fault is their own, -not mine. It is enough for me to enjoy your sympathy and confidence, and that of my fellow-countrymen. I ask no prouder distinction than that of an American citizen, and desire no higher earthly approval than such as comes from those who boast of the same glorious privilege.

Tendering, through you, my sincere thanks to the American residents of Honolulu, and the many who joined them on the 4th, in honoring the principles of American Independence,

I remain your obedient servant,
DAVID L. GREGG.
To Messrs. FIELD, HALL AND COADY,
Committee, &c. 

Fourth of July (The Polynesian, 1854)

Source: The Polynesian. Honolulu: Saturday, June 17, 1854

An adjourned meeting to perfect arrangements for the celebration of the approaching anniversary of American Independence, was held at the Court House on Saturday Evening last, B.F. Angel Esq., in the Chair.

Vacancies in committees were filled, and Stephen Reynolds, Esq., was selected to read the Declaration of Independence, and Hon. D.L. Gregg to deliver the Oration.

Mr. R.A.S. Wood was appointed Marshal, with directions to superintend the publication of the orders of the day.

A Public Ball is to be given at the Court House, on the Evening of the 4th of July. 

Memento of Washington and La Fayette (The Polynesian, 1854)

Source: The Polynesian. Honolulu: Saturday, July 1 1854

We learn from the Argus, that Mr. C.W. Vincent of this city has in his possession a small mahogany centre table, -an heirloom from his grandparents, on which Gen. Washington and the Marquis de La Fayette have often taken tea together during the campaign in New Jersey, in 1778. It will form a prominent feature in the procession on the 4th of July next. 

1864: Observance of the 4th of July in Honolulu. (The Friend)

Source: The Friend. Honolulu: August 4, 1864.

As in former years, the anniversary of American Independence was duly observed by Americans and the public generally. The day was emphatically a holiday. "From early dawn until dewy eve," yes, even from 12 o'clock on the night of the 3rd until 12 o'clock on the night of 4th, there was one uninterrupted series of festive, gladsome and jubilant expressions of feeling. The committee of arrangements made the most ample provision for the accommodation of all who were inclined to assemble, for the purpose of listening to an address, and partaking of bountifully loaded tables. The address of J. W. Austin, Esq., was exceedingly appropriate, and has been published in the Advertiser. The addresses which accompanied the regular toasts were also very appropriate. Our limits are so narrow that we could not publish but the most meagre sketches, hence, we have selected two for insertion in our columns. The address of Mr. Hall, to be found in our columns, was delivered in reply to the toast " The Heroes of 1776." The address of Mr. Bartlett wag an impromptu affair, which called forth much applause. Other addresses were delivered by the Hon. Mr. Mcßride the American Minister, Mr. S. N. Castle, Mr. H. A. P. Carter, Mr. McCully, Mr. A. F. Judd, and Rev. H. H. Parker.

There was one feature in all these addresses which was exceedingly gratifying, the eloquent speakers did not deem it their special duty in glorifying Yankee Doodledom, to abuse all other nationalities, and especially John Bull. We hope that species of 4th of July eloquence has forever passed away. Republicanism is the best government for Americans, but other forms of government are better suited to the people of other lands and states of society. Ike Marvel, alias D. G. Mitchell, Esq.,aptly remarks in the June number of the Atlantic, in an article upon Washington Irving, "There are those so grossly constituted as to measure a man's love of his own country by the sneers he flings at the country of others. It was not Mr. Irving's nature to sneer at even an enemy; it was not his "way of making conquests." It is quite time every true hearted and loyal American adopted this noble sentiment of Washington Irving, the biographer of the immortal Washington. America has a noble mission to perform in this world, and nobly is she now performing that mission, not by going abroad and fighting other nations, but by striving to put down rebellion within her own borders. When that is done, then will America take her stand as the friend of the friendless and down-trodden, emancipator of the enslaved, and the genuine apostle of human freedom and equality among the nations of the earth. 

After the dinner and addresses were finished the large audience entered most heartily into the measure of raising a handsome contribution to aid the funds of the Sanitary Commission. Some one presented a neatly framed copy of President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. This was sold and resold, sold and resold, by Mr. Severance, at auction, at sums varying from $5 to $50 until the amount realized was $453. A portrait of Washington brought sums amounting to $90. These amounts invested in currency of the United States will not fall below $1000. We could wish ten times that amount had been raised for the noble purpose of relieving the suffering and wounded soldiers who are fighting the battles of freedom. Americans abroad ought to come forward and most generously sustain the "Sanitary Commission," "Christian Commission" and the Freedmen's Association." If our fellow citizens at home are willing to leave their families and imperil their lives under Grant and Sherman, surely we ought most rally to contribute our pittance to bind up their wounds and nurse them when lying hospitals. We sometimes feel the blood tingle in our veins when we read what loyal Americans are doing at home, while those abroad are taking no active part in this great struggle—this struggle of freedom with slavery, truth with error, freemen with the foes of liberty and abettors of oppression. Revolutions go not backward. American Independence is progressive ! Our motto is Onward. 

Mr. E.O. Hall's Address.

MR. CHAIRMAN, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN: If there is any one thing I despise more than any other, or than all other despicable things combined, it is boasting. By this I mean a constant self-exaggeration; —a self exaggeration with everything pertaining to one's self or one's country, and a depreciating of everything, personal or national, that is not embraced in these surroundings. I do not believe that patriotism and manliness are confined to the land that gave us birth, or from whence we descended. There is virtue, there is solid worth, there are high moral qualities in every nationality that calls itself Christian and civilized at the present day. 

And it is on this account that I, for one, Mr. Chairman, look with approbation upon the gatherings of different nationalities in our cosmopolitan city, to celebrate national or j other days rendered memorable by great events or by long-time tradition. And I respect, nay, I admire the spirit-stirring and patriotic utterances on such occasions. It is eloquence rightly employed, and its effects j are well calculated to keep patriotism alive, and to stimulate that self-respect which one cannot help but feel from the reflection that j he is one of a nation that has a noble record for him to sustain. 

And it is in this spirit, I trust, Mr. Chairman, that we meet together this day, not to depreciate or ridicule the patriotism of others, but to stimulate and strengthen our own ; —to recount the glories of the past, and to point to that still more glorious future for our beloved country, which I most firmly believe is now beginning to dawn upon her. But the duty you have assigned to me relates more to the past than to the future. You have requested me to respond to the sentiment, 

"THE HEROES OF 1776!" 

And glorious old heroes they were ! Glorious in their bravery! Glorious in their patriotic devotion to their country ! Glorious in their whole-souled devotion to an idea. And that idea you have just heard read as it is contained in that immortal " Declaration of Independence," which the heroes of "76 had the heroism to make in the face of the whole world, and to maintain with their best blood, their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor. Shall I rehearse it again ? Yes, it is worthy to be repeated till it becomes as familiar as our household words, and engraven upon our very heart of hearts: 

"God hath created all men free and equal, and endowed them with certain inalienable rights; among which are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." 

Thanks, a thousand thanks, ye heroes of '76, for this glorious idea! It shines down upon us like a beam of light from the very "Father of lights." And although eighty-eight years have passed since this heaven born declaration was made, it has lost not one jot or tittle of its brightness; but stands out now before the whole world radiant with augmented effulgence. 

This is the great beacon light which the heroes of '76 hang out to guide the way of the wandering to a glorious land, where a man could be a man, and where a free field and a fair chance lay all open before him, to cultivate and develop his manhood, and to rise by his own energies to the highest positions of honor. And I need not recount to this assembly of my countrymen, how many thousands, nay, millions have followed the guidance of this blessed light, and have become identified with a nation, whose history has but just begun.

There is a long-standing adage, Mr. Chairman, that "rats desert a sinking ship."
Now, sir, I believe that instinct is not confined to quadrupeds, but, bipeds are quite as likely, to know where their safety lies as they. If this is true, I call your attention to the amazing fact that there is a broad, deep and swift current of immigration from every civilized land under the sun to that great republic, where the principles of '76 are being wrought into history with a rapidity that almost bewilders the mind of the observer. 

And this is true, not merely in times of peace but it is true now, when that glorious land is engaged in a war beyond all precedent in its magnitude and desperation. A war, sir, that I verily believe would have dashed into a thousand fragments any other government in Christendom, under similar circumstances. But is it to a sinking ship that this unprecedented current of immigration is flocking ? Or does that instinct which certainly guides men to where their safety and interest lie, lead them to a land, whose future is to be onward and upward ? Such 1 believe it to be. And when we are officially told that the only limit to this broad tide of immigration is the lack of ships to convey it, we are constrained to wonder and admire the force of that attraction, which moves such mighty masses. But, sir, it would require a volume to state all the causes that combine to form this wonderful attraction ; and I will only allude to the fact that its principal element lies in the unlimited opportunity every citizen possesses of enjoying to the fullest extent, "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." What more could he ask? And when these vital doctrines are embodied in the fundamental law of the land, is it at all surprising that it proves an attraction that draws men from every clime and across broad oceans, and in fact, is as irresistible as the law of gravitation itself. 

But it is not alone in the Constitution of the United States that this glorious doctrine is found ; it also forms a part of the Constitution of the pleasant land we here inhabit. And here allow me to remark, that in my humble judgment, the annunciation of this sentiment in the Constitution of 1852, is the noblest act ever performed by that well-be-loved Sovereign, Kamehameha III and one which will embalm his memory in the hearts of his people to the very latest generation. 

But I trespass upon your patience. And yet I cannot forbear the remark, that in regard to the tide of immigration that swells and surges upon the shores of our native land, let them come! There is room for millions more. They are welcome. Welcome to all the privileges and enjoyments of a noble manhood. Welcome to all the pursuits and all the honors they can attain. 

"Come from every nation, come from every 

  way. 

  Our lands they are broad enough,

  Don't be alarmed. 

  For Uncle Sam is rich enough 

  To give yon all a farm." 

I said Uncle Sam was rich enough to give you all a farm. Well, he is; and his boys have something besides, on their own account. Why, sir, those boys, who have been supposed to be very devout worshippers of the "almighty dollar," as it has been called, have contributed since the commencement of this wicked rebellion more than two hundred millions of dollars, over and above all government taxes, to carry on the war and to
soothe its sorrows. And you will remember, Mr. Chairman, that when at the commencement of this civil commotion, the war cloud was rolling up black as night, our kind cousins over the water thought they had their thumb upon us, and threatened that they would not lend us a dollar, and we should have to submit to degradation and disunion for want of funds to carry on the war! Well, sir, in this emergency, our revered Uncle just asked his boys to give him a lift, and from that day to this his pockets have been filled to their utmost capacity. And while we have just heard that the treasury of the " so-called" Confederacy had not a dollar left to pay anybody or for anything, our boys have furnished two thousand millions, and will furnish as many more if they are wanted. 

These are some of the results of the work inaugurated by the founders of the republic, the "heroes of 76." And while we recall their worthy deeds and honor their memories this day, we do so with the profound remembrance that they have almost all passed away. Their chairs are vacant at the festive board, and the few remaining names can be counted almost upon your fingers. But twelve remained upon the list on the 4th of March last, and a grateful country has added to their pensions so that their pathway down the last declivity of life's journey may be free from care and anxiety. We honor the living; we revere the dead. Their memory, indeed, is a sacred trust to us. " May their sons in defense of the Union emulate the heroism of their fathers in its establishment." 

Mr. I. Bartlett's Remarks. 

Mr. President, I rise with a protest. I have listened to the addresses of those who have so eloquently responded to the regular toasts, but upon that subject which, in the terrible struggle now going on in our native land, gives to the loyal States their highest moral dignity and crowning glory, but little has been said. 

As an American and a patriot, I rejoice and am proud of the hearty enthusiasm with which our brethren are offering wealth and life for the preservation of our free institutions, and as a friend, 1 trust, of the human race, I most heartily rejoice that the aroused spirit of liberty is hastening forward to give freedom to the oppressed, and sweep away forever our national reproach. 

There hangs before us a copy of the Proclamation of Emancipation, which gives freedom to four millions of people, and which, although fearful is the price we have paid for it, is worth to the country, and worth to the world, all it has cost, even though to-day our " armies of the dead" stand in solemn phalanx two hundred thousand strong! 

"You will do," said Sheridan, when pleading before the highest tribunal of Great Britain the cause of outraged India against Warren Hastings, "in the decision of this great cause you will do such an act of justice and mercy and blessing to man, as no men but yourselves are able to grant." 

But Sheridan's prophecy of hope was uttered only to be disappointed. Mr. Hastings rose up from that investigation unscathed, and in his acquittal, that "dignified and high
tribunal" declared a principle kindred in spirit to that of a decision of later date by the Supreme Court of the United States, which the civilized world has rightly pronounced monstrous, "that black men have no rights which white men were bound to respect." 

But slavery was in the ascendant then, and its iron hand ruled the executive and the judiciary alike, and the struggle which to-day convulses the world is but the natural outgrowth of principles so horrid as this. We may be grateful that a better order of things has come, that the nation's conscience was not so fatally debauched that it could not revolt against the hateful demands of the slave power, and that, with the voice of sorrow which an unholy rebellion has caused to arise from our native land, there also mingles the shout of gladness and the songs of freedom. " You hare done," will be the language of the historian of Abraham Lincoln, " such an act of justice and mercy and blessing to man, as no man but yourself was able to grant." Hope was not disappointed in him. Called, in the Providence of God, to administer the government at a time when slavery was furious and striking at the nation's life— strong in the power of a good cause and quick in the inspiration of freedom, he has dared to do an act from which many a brave man would have shrunk ; and now, wherever the army of the Republic has gone, multitudes of down-trodden people leap at once from slavery into light and freedom and, bless God and "Father Abraham" for the precious gift of their own humanity. Thank God, the Emancipation Proclamation is a fact, for it is a proud fact in our history, and will live and be cherished as the law of the land long after the hand that penned it has crumbled back to dust, and will forever remain bright as one of the noblest waymarks in the history of the human race. Yesterday the black man was a thing in the eyes of the law, and classed with the beasts that perish ; to-day, he rejoices in his manhood, and side by side with the white man he marches in the army of the Union to carry the old flag—his flag and ours—to the remotest verge of the Republic. 

So let the old flag go, and so it will go; it shall sweep like a rainbow all over that broad land ; it shall float over every sea which the white sails of busy commerce shall gladden ; from the rivers to the ends of the earth it shall go forth, everywhere hailed with hope for the oppressed, the chosen and cherished emblem of a great and free people. It will go with a prestige of power hitherto unknown, and, better than all else, throughout all that vast domain of its nativity, from the pine shaded lakes of Maine to the gleaming waves of the Gulf of Mexico, from the Capes of the Chesepeake to the Golden Gate, no slave shall ever lift his hand to make that flag a mockery. 

Already the sky is brightening with the promise of a glorious morning, and if we meet here again on another Fourth of July, I trust we may be able to sing " The cruel war is over." But the work is not yet done, and while noble men are even now struggling for our country's weal, let us not withhold the expression of sympathies nor our prayers to Him who directs ail things. 

The war must go on until the last vestige of rebellion is blotted out, and if the time comes when our country must call upon her children who are scattered abroad to return and fight for the land of their birth, let us not be found wanting: 

"The whining shell may bunt in fire. 
     The shrieking bullet fly. 
The Heavens and earth may mingle grief, 
     The gallant soldier die:
But while a haughty rebel stands, 
     No peace, for peace is war; 
The land that is not worth our death, 
     Is not worth living for. 
Then rally round the banner, boys! 
     Its triumph draweth nigh; 
See, where above the clouds of war 
     Its seamless glories fly, 
Peace, hovering o'er the bristling van, 
     Waves palm and laurel fair, 
And Victory binds the rescued stars 
     In Freedom's golden hair."

Flag Raising (Honolulu, June 1861)

Source: Pacific Commercial Advertiser. Honolulu: Thursday, June 20, 1861. 

One of the most gratifying outbursts of patriotism witnessed here for many a day, occurred on Saturday last. A flag staff had been erected over the large building occupied by A.J. Cartwright and H.W. Severance, and about 12 o'lock a beautiful new American flag was unfolded and hoisted on it amid the cheers of a crowd of spectators. The crowd rapidly increased till the street in front of the building was filled, and being somewhat patriotic, they called for a speech, which was promptly responded to by C.C. Harris Esq., in his usual felicitous style, in which the flag, the constitution, and the country were held up as more worthy of defense now than when our fathers fought in 1776. 

He was followed by J.C. Spalding and A.J. Cartwright, in some brief remarks-the former representing the old Bay State, and the latter the little Empire State. The proceedings not being considered complete without the presence of the United States Commissioner, Coffin's carriage was dispatched to his residence, Washington Place, and soon returned with him. 

Col. Dryer, on coming forward, was vociferously cheered, and made some very appropriate remarks on the present state of affairs in America, the attitude which the Government has taken, the firmness of Abraham Lincoln, and his determination to see the rebellion crushed. 

After the flag raising and speeches were concluded, the auditors were invited to a liberal lunch, provided in the store of Mr. Severance. We noticed but one "seceder" present, our worthy friend "the marshal," who was doubtless attracted by the quality of the champagne, which he declared was unequalled even by the best "sparkling Lahaina." The whole affair was impromptu, and shows that Americans in Honolulu are true to their country and their country's flag in this hour of its peril. 

1863: "Patriotic Ode Sung in Charleston, South Carolina, on the 4th of July, 1828"

Patriotic Ode Sung in Charleston, South Carolina, on the 4th of July, 1828.

Source: Pacific Commercial Advertiser. Honolulu: July 2, 1863.

The following patriotic ode was written for and sung at the celebration of American Independence, in the City of Charleston, South Carolina, in 1828, and is now re-produced from a memory of 30 years.

Tune- Bruce's Address.

Hail! our country's natal morn,

Hail! our spreading kindred born,

Hail! our banner not yet torn,

Waving o'er the free.

While this day in festal throng

Millions swell the patriot's song,

Shall not we thy notes prolong?

Hallowed jubilee!

Who would sever freedom's shrine?

Who would draw the invidious line?

Though one spot by birth be mine,

Dear is all the rest.

Dear to me the South's fair land,

Dear the central mountain band,

Dear New England's rocky strand,

Dear the prairied West.

By our altars pure and free,

By our laws' deep rooted tree,

By the past's dead memory,

By our Washington;

By our common parent tongue,

By our hopes, bright, buoyant, young-

By the ties of country, strong-

We will still be one.

Fathers! have ye bled in vain?

Ages! shall we drop again?

Make ___ we rashly stain

_____ngs sent by thee?

_____ receive our solemn vow-

_____ before Thy throne we bow-

_____ to maintain as now,

Union! Liberty?

1863: Columbia, Queen of the Land

Columbia, Queen of the Land.
by George A. Elliot.
Source: Pacific Commercial Advertiser. Honolulu: July 2, 1863.

America! Home of the free,
To the star of thy liberties bright
Turn the eyes of the millions who flee
For a rescue from tyranny's night!
Though thy magical name and ensign unfurled
May enkindle some envy with joy in the world,
Yet the orbs of thy Union shall glow through all time
While the nations of earth own their splendor sublime!

CHORUS:
O, Columbia's banner, the flag of the free,
Shall be honored for aye, o'er the land and the sea!

Columbia's Queen of the Land!
From the heart of the nation, her throne,
She proclaims this benignant command:
"Let the will of my people be known!
They are free from the scourge of oppression's fell rod;
They are free evermore in the worship of God!
And the ensign that beams o'er the land of my birth
Shall a welcome fling out for the bond of the earth!"

CHORUS:
O, Columbia's banner, the flag of the free,
Shall be honored for aye, o'er the land and the sea!

America! Home of the free!
'Tis thy dear starry emblem that holds
The enchantment that binds us to thee-
All our fortunes to thine-in its folds!
On the wretch who its lustre or glory would pall
Shall the furious vengeance of patriots fall!
Yes, thy flag shall be sacred wherever unfurled,
And shall awe every traitor and foe in the world!

CHORUS:
O, Columbia's banner, the flag of the free,
Shall be honored for aye, o'er the land and the sea!

1926: "History Will Be Repeated July Fifth"

History Will Be Repeated July Fifth (1926)
Source: Pacific Commercial Advertiser. Honolulu: July 3, 1926.

Periods in America and Hawaii will be Symbolized.

PARADE OUTLINED

Thirty-four Floats in Three Divisions to Participate

Thirty-four floats, symbolizing different periods in American and Hawaiian history, will form a part of the Fourth of July pageant and parade in Honolulu Monday morning, July 5.

The line of march will be from Thomas square along Beretania street to the Capitol grounds, leaving Thomas Square at 9:30 a.m., and passing the reviewing stand at Iolani palace at 10 a.m.

Each float will keep a distance of 25 feet from the float ahead of it. There will be three divisions of this feature, 12 representing the period from 1776 to 1826, 11 from 1826 to 1876, and 11 from 1876 to 1926. 

War veterans and members of patriotic organizations will assemble on King street Waikiki of Victoria street, with the head of the column at Victoria street, including Legionnaires, women of the auxiliary, G.A.R. men, and Spanish war soldiers. 

That unit of the parade will be known as the veterans' and patriotic section. Veterans desiring transportation should telephone Samuel Wilder King, chairman of the committee in charge, by noon today. 

Space is being allotted in the parade for all organizations that have signified intentions to participate, according to King. 

ENTRIES AND SUBJECTS

The entries, and the subjects symbolized, together with the organizations presenting them are:

"Spirit of '76," Pennsylvania Society.
"Signing of the Declaration of Independence," Sojourners club, Mr. Fleming, chairman.
"Liberty Bell," United States navy.
"Betsy Ross," Aloha Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, Mrs. N.M. Benyas, chairman.
"Evolution of the American Flag," Girl Scouts, Mrs. David Oleson, chairman.
"Benjamin Franklin at the Court of Louis XVI," St. Louis College, Brother August, chairman.
"The First Law of Kamehameha," Order of Kamehameha, John C. Lane, chairman.
"Louisiana Purchase," Columbus Welfare, Mrs. Swan, chairman.

BREAKING OF TABU

"Breaking of the Tabu," Daughters of Hawaii, Mrs. Charles Chillingsworth, chairman.
"Magellan's Discovery of the Pacific Ocean," Minerva club, Dr. L.R. Gasper, and Jose C. Sousa, chairmen.
"Daniel Boone," Punahou school, Mrs. E.A. Ross, chairman.
"Court of Queen Kaahumanu," Kaahumanu Society, Mrs. Alfred Smythe, chairman.
"Presentation of the First American Treaty" Daughters and Sons of Hawaiian Warriors, Mrs. A.P. Taylor, chairman.
"War with Mexico," Y.M.C.A., Scott Brainard, chairman.
"Reception of Commodore Perry at the Court of Japan," Japanese Society of Hawaii., K. Yamamoto, chairman.
"Covered Wagon," United States army.
"Civil War," American Legion auxiliary, Unit No. 1, Mrs. Harry Cooper, chairman.
"Emancipation of the Slaves," Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Harry Murray, chairman.

CHINESE WELCOME

"Five Chinese Nations Welcoming America," Chinese Community of Honolulu, W.C. Lee, chairman.
"Chinese Industry in American Railroad Development," Hawaiian Chinese Civic association, Dr. Dai Yen Chang, chairman.
"China Expressing Friendship for America, Chinese Community of Honolulu, W.C. Lee, chairman. 
"Flags Famous in American History," Boy Scouts, Sam Robley, chairman.
"Five Islands of Hawaii, Hui Manawa Lea, Mrs. Hoapili, chairman.
"Rough Riders of '98," Schofield Unit, American Legion auxiliary, Mrs. C.W. Weeks, chairman.
"Liberty Welcoming the Immigrants," Pan-Pacific Union, C.W. Kurokawa, chairman.
"From Sail to Wing," United States navy air base, Comdr. M.B. McComb, chairman.

AMERICAN SOLDIER

"American Soldier of 1918," Honolulu Post, American Legion, W.A. Anderson, chairman.
"Overseas Events of the World War," Kamehameha Schools, Mrs. W.B. Caldwell, chairman.
"World War Activities," American Red Cross, Mrs. Harry L. Dawson, chairman.
"Hut with Doughnuts," Salvation Army, Mr. Tamner, chairman.
"Melting Pot of the Pacific," Kewalo Athletic association, Mrs. John H. Wilson, chairman.
"Influence of America on Korean Home Life," Korean National association, Mr. Choy, chairman.
"Rehabilitation," Hale O Na Alii O Hawaii, Princess Kawananakoa, chairman.
"Spirit of 1926," Y.W.C.A., Mrs. Arthur Withington, chairman.

THOSE ASSISTING

Firms, individuals and organizations pledging tracks on which the floats can be built are the Honolulu Furniture company, Honolulu Construction and Drawing company, City Mill, Honolulu Construction company, Honolulu Planing Mill, United States Army, Lewers & Cooke, Schuman Carriage company, American Factors, Honolulu Dairyman's association, United States Navy, City Transfer, St. Louis College, Chester Clark, T,H. Davies & Co., von Hamm Young Company, and Allen & Robinson.

On Monday afternoon, there will be an old fashioned Fourth of July celebration at the Squattersville playground under the direction of "Mother" Waldron. Monday evening, the tableaux and pageant will conclude the day's festivities with a spectacular program at Iolani palace. 

All merchants in Honolulu have been requested to decorate their buildings today with flags and bunting. Tomorrow morning, patriotic exercises will be observed in the city's churches, and tomorrow afternoon at 3 o'clock there will be a massed band concert at Kapiolani park, beginning at 3 o'clock. 

  

1876: Centennial Musings

Centennial Musings (1876)
Source: Pacific Commercial Advertiser. Honolulu: November 4, 1876.

[On the 4th of July last, "on a lone barren isle" in the mid Pacific, a gentleman now in Honolulu composed the following spirited lines, which he entitles "Came too late for the Centennial," and sends them to the PACIFIC COMMERCIAL ADVERTISER:]

In the history of the human race,
A nobler deed you cannot trace,
That what in '76 took place,
A hundred years ago.

'Twas men of mark, with nerve and will,
That wrote on parchment with a quill,
What did with anger monarchs fill,
A hundred years ago.

Some copies of this document;
With all dispatch to France were sent,
Which gave King George's anger vent,
A hundred years ago.

Ship loads of venom quickly came,
Commanding, in King George's name,
That we submit, nor more complain,
A hundred years ago.

The struggle came, as come it must,
Which each man placed in God his trust,
For all they ask'd was fair and just,
A hundred years ago.

Then Freedom's torch and light did fill,
Each Patriot's breast-and does so still-
That blas'd so brighten on Bunker Hill,
A hundred years ago.

The royal troops in hellish pack
Of hired assassins, white and black,
Were worse than bloodhounds on their track,
A hundred years ago.

Immortal fame shall consecrate
The gallant hearts that met their fate,
Braving the royal idiot's hate,
A hundred years ago.

For there are names that will not die,
That did the royal wrath defy,-
They held commission from on high-
A hundred years ago. 

1876: The Coming Centennial 4th of July

The Coming Centennial 4th of July (1876)
Source: Pacific Commercial Advertiser. Honolulu: June 24, 1876.

Honolulu is up and doing in the matter of celebrating the coming anniversary of American Independence. A public meeting was held on the evening go the 17th, of which Dr. J. Scott, U.S. Consul, was Chairman and H.L. Sheldon Secretary, when a Committee on Finance, consisting of Messrs. J.H. Paty, P.C. Jones, Jr., and A.J. Cartwright, and a General Committee of Arrangements of thirteen were appointed. A Committee of ladies was selected by the meeting and invited to participate in the celebration by a "Martha Washington Tea Party," in the evening of the 3rd, in costume of "ye olden time," which committee consists of Mrs. Consul Scott, Mrs. J.S. McGrew, Mrs. J. Mott Smith, Mrs. H.M. Whitney, Mrs. S.B. Dole, Mrs. P.C. Jones, Jr., Mrs. W.F. Allen, and Mrs. S.M. Damon. His Ex. H.A. Peirce, American Minister Resident, was invited to act as President of the day, and President Pratt, of Oahu College, to read the Declaration of Independence.

At the adjourned meeting, held on Thursday evening last, the Committee of Arrangements, through their Chairman, Mr. E.P. Adams, reported that they had divided into the following sub-committees:

Celebration at Kawaiahao- Messrs. H.A.P. Carter, M. Louisson, W.W. Hall.
Salutes and Fireworks- W.F. Allen, E.P. Adams, J.W. Maguire.
Music- W.W. Hall, A. Pratt.
Picnic (head of Emma Street)- R.W. Laine, A.W. Carter, P.C. Jones, Jr., T. Foster, G. West.
Dancing- J.H. Paty, A.W. Carter.
Invitation- E.P. Adams, H.A.P. Carter, W.F. Allen, H.M. Whitney.

Mr. J.H. Paty, on behalf of the Finance Committee, reported that the subscriptions for the celebration amounted to some $2,250, and that the paper would be open for signers until the "day we celebrate." The chairman stated on behalf of the Committee of ladies that they had engaged the large dining room of the Hawaiian Hotel for the "Tea Party," and that they extended a general invitation for all to attend. Special invitations would be sent to their Majesties the King and Queen, the Royal Family and the Queen Dowager Emma. Everybody, it is expected, will appear at the tea-party in old-time costume, as far as practicable. The programme of proceedings on the Fourth has not yet been perfected, but will be published at an early day. We learn, however, that it is proposed to have a salute of thirteen guns at six a.m.; the parade of the "antiques and horribles;" services at Kawaiahao Church; picnic in the afternoon at the Royal School grounds, head of Emma Street, with dancing, sack and foot races, greased pole and greased pig, and a table spread for 1500 persons; another salute at sun-down; and fire-works and a bonfire in the evening.

The meeting of Thursday evening was a most enthusiastic and harmonious one, and was enliven by an eloquent and patriotic speech from the Chairman, Consul Scott, and  singing of national and patriotic songs by the whole company, led by an excellent choir. 

1926: Hawaii Day At Sesqui is Emphasized

Hawaii Day At Sesqui is Emphasized

William R. Castle, Jr., May Make Address for Hawaii

Source: Honolulu Advertiser. Honolulu: Saturday, July 3, 1926.

The program for Hawaii Day, July 7, at the sesquicentennial exposition is being emphasized by the exposition officials, and will be participated in by which the military, according to a message received yesterday by Mrs. Emma Ahuena Taylor, premier of the Daughters and Sons of Hawaiian Warriors society, from Miles Cary. 

He stated that the exposition officials, in their cooperation, have suggested features for the program outlined before the Warriors' delegation left Honolulu, and plan to have  a brilliant military procession through the grounds, as a special escort to the Warriors.

ESCORT OF HONOR

As to the frigate Constellation, which the Warriors are to honor with leis and a Hawaiian flag, it lies at the navy yard. It is now planned that the celebration shall start from the exposition grounds, and the islanders, in full regalia of their order, will be accompanied by an honor escort of troops until they reach the Constellation's dock.

The exposition officials have asked that they prepare an appropriately decorated float in which the delegation should proceed from the grounds to the Constellation. Cary, in his message, asked the approval of the premier of the society. A message was forwarded yesterday afternoon direct to Miss Reis, approving the float plan. 

A message was also received from Miles Cary by the Chamber of Commerce, of similar purport. 

CASTLE MAY SPEAK

It was first hoped that U.S. Senator Hiram Bingham (III), who was born in Hawaii, might make the address. He has stated that he will be unable to be in Philadelphia on Hawaii Day. An effort is being made to have William R. Castle, Jr., who is an official of the State Department, at Washington, to make the address. 

Mrs. Mira Pitman of Boston, who was in Honolulu recently, has advised local friends that she will go to Philadelphia early next week to participate in the ceremony, which is to take place aboard the Constellation. This ceremony is planned to honor the vessel for the conspicuous part she played in the history of Hawaii in 1843 while she was lying in the harbor of Honolulu. 

1865: Speech by H.B.M. Acting Commissionar and Consul-General W.L. Green

Speech of W. L. Green, Esq. (1865)

H.B.M. Acting Commissionar and Consul-General. 

July 4, 1865.

Source: Pacific Commercial Advertiser. Honolulu: July 8, 1865.

Mr.  President, Ladies and Gentlemen:-

I think it is hardly fair to call upon me to say anything upon such an important occasion as this, totally unprepared as I am, after you ahem just heard orations from gentlemen fully prepared, and who have proved themselves so capable of doing ample justice to the subject; but, I feel the more confidence, because I am sure that you are all in that humor here to-day that you will be perfectly satisfied with whatever I say. Nay-should I be so foolish or so stupid as to say something even insulting, I believe that you are in such a mood that you would forgive me. And well you may-this is a great day for you. This is the greatest Fourth of July for you since the Fourth of July, 1776. Your country has just passed through a severe ordeal, but there is no question you have come out of it triumphantly. During those four years of trial, fearful as they were, the United States as a nation has taken an immense stride. You have advanced your position in the scale of nations more during those four years than during the larger part of a century preceding. As a military power, to day you rank, if I am not mistaken, first among the nations of the world. 

As your President has remarked, I am English, and I look upon your position from an English point of view-but these are simply the plain facts, as I have stated them. Why need I enlarge? You all see how matters stand-we all see how matters stand. Your power as a nation is vastly increased-your power for good or for evil. Your greatness and your responsibilities are immensely extended at the same moment.

I will not detain you long, but there is one subject I feel as I ought to touch upon. By the last mail or two we have had rumors of war between England and the United States-allusion has been made here to-day of "a little bill" which Brother Jonathan is said to have presented to John Bull. As the news reaches us in this remote corner of the world, it presents itself something in this wise-Jonathan has made out a bill against John Bull and handing it in says, "there's my bill, if you don't pay I'll lick you." Now I hardly can believe that this is the way it has been done-at least if it is, it is because Brother Jonathan never expected to get paid. The answer that John Bull would probably give to a bill presented in this way would be, -"Gentlemen, you can take it out of my hide," or words to that effect-as the lawyers say-and that is a pretty tough old bull's hide yet; and I think you will admit that John Bull would take a good deal more whipping than Jeff Davis and the Dragon that we have heard about today. But Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, I do not believe there will be any war at all- and I will give you my reason for that belief. It appears to me that the United States is in that position this 4th of July, A.D., 1865, that she not care a snuff whether the bill is paid or not. She can afford not to care. It is not for me here to enter into the question of the correctness of this bill-I presume if it is a correct one it will be paid, if it is not a correct one it won't be paid. But Mr. President and Gentlemen, if that bill were ten times the amount it is, and if you were ten times more satisfied than you are the bill was correct, if I do not much mistake the temper and spirit of the people of the United States on this day, you are at heart indifferent about the payment of it. It is not a nation that has just achieved the title to be confident of her position amongst the powers of the earth that is anxious at once to mantonly plunge into war.

But after all, when I look around upon this assembly and see the satisfied faces-after hearing all the speeches of this day, and contemplating the events of the last four years as there portrayed, I begin to think that war between England and the United States may not be such a bad thing-who knows? It may do some of us good-it may do you good-or it may do us good-perchance it may do us both good-we may thrash each other into mutual respect- and we may then be better friends than ever we were; this alone would be a good result. Of one thing, I, and an Englishman, should feel, and do feel proud and happy, and that is that the war between England and the United States (if war there is to be) has been deferred-has been delayed till to-day-because now, with your internal dissensions put down-with a splendid army and navy in the highest state of discipline-be tried leaders, taught by experience, and confident from success-there would be some credit in giving you a good whipping! 

1926 Editorial: Hawaii May Become the Throne of Liberty

Hawaii May Become the Throne of Liberty

Source: Honolulu Advertiser. Honolulu: Monday, July 4, 1926. Editorial page.

Naturally upon the hour of the Fourth of July celebrations the Declaration of Independence for these states appears in letters of living light. Naturally the men who wrote the immortal document takes a foremost place among the people. Otherwise something of supreme importance has gone from the spirit of America. 

For however he has been traduced and maligned and discredited by those who disbelieve in his clearly stated convictions of democracy Thomas Jefferson is the very soul off that theory of Government which propounds the equality of men. The greatest thinkers of the world are generally agreed that the three supreme figures in American history are Washington, Jefferson and Lincoln. Lincoln gave such supremacy to the two former. His most intimate associate has testified that the only two men for whom the Emancipator was ever heard to express real reverence were Washington and Jefferson.

We have Lincoln's own words to establish such a statement concerning Jefferson. In a letter responding to an invitation to speak at a Jefferson dinner in Boston in 1860 Lincoln wrote:

Soberly, it is no child's play to save the principles of Jefferson from total overthrow in this nation. The principles of Jefferson are the definitions and axioms of free society.

Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. It is beyond doubt, next to the Sermon on the Mount, the greatest statement of the primal truths of human society. The breakers of time wash over it. They recede and its statements shine forth undimmed, revealing the fundamental principles of free society in letters of living light. The universality of Jefferson's mind may have new illumination from the fact that Hawaii was only duly known to exist when he strode the stage of the New World, and yet his theory of government and standards of liberty fit as snugly to these "far-flung" islands that have practically come into existence since his time add they did to New America of his day. In fact the Declaration of Independence which Thomas Jefferson wrote and his wise contemporaries simplified the very essence of Truth applied to human life. 

It may be that this wonderful declaration of man's universal worth and independence will not be read during the present celebration in Honolulu. It may be that it is considered a back number, a statement of truths that are so apparent it is unnecessary to repeat them. Such time will never be until the Millennium. Human rights and privileges must be seen, recognized and fought for now and forever if government of the people, by the people and for the people is to endure.

In our great national prosperity we are prone to forget the foundations on which that general prosperity rests. We are prone to take the easiest way: to let the dead bury its dead. In that way lies National decay and disaster. We are a long way from realizing in our daly life, and in our government the fundamental principles of the Declaration of Independence. Men are not free and equal in fact. That consummation however devoutly wished for is far from consummation. But it is the goal. Don't forget that. Moreover, man was placed on this earth to fight for that goal, to demonstrate its reality. That is what the celebration of the Fourth of July, -Independence Day- means to each and all of us.

Behind all the noise and racket the faithful listener can hear the still small voice of Truth:

I am the Soul of human intelligence. I will establish my throne upon earth.

Amid the noise and shouting let us give a moment to this still small Voice. It will help us to advance along the road toward final liberty and universal freedom which is the final goal of humanity, to which humanity is destined to go. And may it not be that here in Hawaii is to be finally set up the throne of Independence for all the world? 

1865: British Schooner Yacht Themis: Fourth of July In Honolulu

1865: British Schooner Yacht Themis: Fourth of July In Honolulu 

Source: Pacific Commercial Advertiser. Honolulu: July 22, 1865

Correspondence

UNITED STATES LEGATION.

Honolulu, July 14, 1865

Capt. Thos. R. Hanham:

MY DEAR SIR: -It is with profound regret I learned that one of your men while firing a salute from your yacht, the Themis, on the ever memorable fourth, the anniversary of American Independence, was seriously wounded, losing the greater portion of one of his hands.

Subsequently, however, I have heard that he has passed all danger, and is now in the process of rapid recovery. Will you allow me to ask the favor that you will express to the man for me, my sincere grief at his loss, and earnest wish for his rapid recovery and future welfare.

My fellow citizens in Honolulu, with their usual promptness and quick sympathetic impulses, are, through a committee, collecting a fund from the Americans, (to which I had the honor to subscribe) for the benefit of the disabled man. 

In this connection also, allow me both for my fellow citizens and myself, to express our high appreciation of the manly and liberal spirit which promoted the rather unusual extent of courtesy, which you manifested in so beautifully and tastefully decorating your yacht for that day, and in firing the national salute.

And in their behalf and for myself, I beg to tender you our heartiest thanks.

With very great respect,

I have the honor to be, Sir,

Your obedient servant,

JAMES MCBRIDE

U.S.M.R.

________________________________________________________

SCHOONER YACHT THEMIS

Honolulu, July 20, 1865

MY DEAR SIR: -For your very kind letter of the 14th accept my warmest thanks. With reference to the liberal donation I have just received, and to which you subscribed, I will only observe it is another and most pleasing exhibition of that kindness and sympathy which I trust will ever subsist between the two great representatives of the Anglo-Saxon race. I only regret that the small amount of feeling bale to be expressed by decorating my yacht and firing a salute in honor of the anniversary of American Independence, should be "rather unusual," for I hold it to be a day of rejoicing to the Englishmen of the present age, second only to that of an American citizen. Had the result of that glorious struggle been other than it was, it would have retarded the cause of Civil and Religious Liberty over the whole world, for which, there is no more earnest advocate than, 

My dear sir,

Your very obedient servant,

Thos. B. Hanham

To His Excellency James McBride, United States Minister, Honolulu. 

________________________________________________________

ROSEBANK, July  8, 1865-5 P.M.

MY DEAR CAPTAIN HANHAM:- I pray you to accept, for William Burman, disabled in firing a salute on the Fourth of July, my enclosed cheque for $50, and apply the amount in the way that you consider most useful to him.

I am glad to hear that several Americans have preceded me in such a manifestation of sympathy for that British sailor. It pleases me to follow their lead in so good a cause-and it pleases me still more to assure you that I remain,

My dear Capt. Hanham,

Yours ever truly,

R.C. WYLLIE.

Captain Thomas B. Hanham, R.N., owner of the Themis, Cottage of King Kamehameha III, Iolani Palace.

________________________________________________________

PALACE, Honolulu, July 11, 1865

MY DEAR MR. WYLLIE:-Your most liberal donation to poor Burman has caused very deep and sincere feelings of gratitude from him, which he is just now only able to express through me-but I hope you will allow me, while thanking you in his name, to say how much I appreciate the real kind feeling which has led you in such a way to show your sympathy for what has naturally been a cause of anxiety and sorrow to all concerned. Although I know I need not tell yu that so far as worldly prospects, it will always be my care to provide for, and enable him to feel as little as may be the effects of the accident which has befallen him, still it is none the less grateful to me to know that one whom I have had so much reason to respect and admire during my stay in these islands, feels for and with me in this matter, by so delicate and generous an expression of interest and friendship. 

I am sure you will be glad to learn that Buman is progressing as favorably as possible. He is now allowed to take a little more nourishment and fruit. Again thanking you for this, and all your encouraging kindness and hospitality to me and mine,

I am, my dear Mr. Wylllie

Yours very faithfully,

THOS. B. HANHAM

To His Excellency R.C. Wyllie, &c., &c., &c., Rosebank

1926 Honolulu Advertiser Editorial

The Fourth of July In Honolulu

Source: Honolulu Advertiser. Honolulu: July 5, 1926. Editorial page.

America's greatest holiday is taken for granted in mainland communities. It comes and goes with the regularity of the seasons, just one Fourth of July after another. There are the picnic, the celebrations, the parades and the firecrackers. There are patriotic addresses, double-header baseball games and the firemen's ball.

The people always welcome the day. It is different from any other day in the year. To observe it is automatic. To not observe it is unthinkable.

In Honolulu, although an American territory, the situation is slightly different. Everything in the way of a celebration is not so automatic. We have the firecrackers and the picnics and the ball games, of course -also the patriotic addresses, and hereafter the firemen's ball. All these things have to be planned and worked out by communities-but that's as it should be.

Hence, the day becomes a red letter day as well as a holiday. It is fraught with something big that many nationalities here are only beginning to understand. A younger generation is arriving, and this generation more thoroughly appreciates the American viewpoint. We, in Honolulu, are not like our citizens on the mainland, in that they have resided all their lives in a strictly American atmosphere, whereas out here the American atmosphere necessarily had to be brought forward.

But the day is arriving when Hawaii will know no other rue, no other ideals, no other outlook, than the American version. That fact will be forcefully emphasized-in the great pageant that will wend its way along the streets. The mileposts in American and Hawaiian history will be depicted through the medium of floats. Such a celebration will be educational, as well as full of color and beauty.

Therefore, we doubt if any mainland city will overshadow Honolulu this year in enthusiasm, in detail and genuine patriotic fervor in its Fourth of July observance.