Sad tidings from faraway Washington Territory, 139 years ago.
Cover Image: Masthead of Ka Nupepa Kuokoa published on April 9, 1887.
People were not only subscribing to the Hawaiian newspapers here in Hawaiʻi nei, but from across the Pacific and beyond as well. The newspaper could spread information quickly, and it was the most efficient means to announce marriages, births, and deaths. Here, word of the passing of Mr. Keawehaku, a native of Waiākea Hilo and the only old-timer left in Keomolewa (Columbia River), reaches all over Hawaiʻi only a month later.
Image: “Port Gamble, Wash. Terri.” Ka Nupepa Kuokoa, April 9, 1887, p.2.
To you, O Editor of the Nupepa Kuokoa: Aloha to us—May it please your honor to give my bundle an open space of your columns so that all of the family of this friend can learn of his recent death.
This is something that will be much sympathized by the all the friends of Hawai’i when they read these touching words, Mr. Keawehaku has just died; the only old-timer remaining here in Keomolewa, the one who had persevered the hardship of living in this foreign land. He died this past March 9, 1887. He left behind children and grandchildren mourning for him on this side of the dark river, and let it be known to all of his family living in Hawaiʻi that he died here in foreign lands being much loved.
He died at 47 years of life. He was kind, welcoming of strangers, and cared for his family. And he was patient with efforts that made life with his four children and five grandchildren. He was from Waiākea, Hilo, and for many years lived in this strange land without seeing the visage of the sands of his birth once more. He had many friends here and was well trusted. I will stop here, with much aloha.
S. D. Pinamu.
Port Gamble, Wash. Terri. U.S.A.
This post is part of He Aupuni Palapala: Preserving and Digitizing the Hawaiian Language Newspapers, a partnership between Bishop Museum and Awaiaulu with assistance from Kamehameha Schools. Mahalo nui loa to Hawaii Tourism Authority for their support. Learn more about this project here.
