Kalakaua Park

Kalakaua Park, nestled in the heart of Hilo, Hawaii, is a charming and historically rich town square that offers visitors a glimpse into the past and a serene escape in the present. Named in honor of King David Kalākaua, who ruled the Kingdom of Hawaii from 1874 to 1891, the park is a tribute to his legacy and a celebration of Hawaiian culture and history.

The Historical Roots of Kalakaua Park

The history of Kalakaua Park is deeply intertwined with the early Christian missionary efforts in Hawaii. Originally the site of the first Christian Mission in the area, known as Waiakea Mission Station-Hilo Station, the land was ceded to the territorial government by King Kamehameha in 1848. This area, once a seasonal flood plain of the Wailuku River, was transformed under the urging of Queen Kaʻahumanu, who encouraged the missionaries to establish their site here.

In the mid-19th century, the park area evolved into a central hub for civic activities. A prefabricated wooden courthouse, built by a company in Bangor, Maine, was erected in 1868, replacing an earlier grass house that served as the home of Sheriff J. H. Coney. This courthouse became a focal point for the community, with Queen Emma and King David Kalakaua reading proclamations from its lanai. The legacy of this courthouse is still commemorated by a sundial erected in its courtyard in 1877, which remains in the park today.

A New England Town Square in Hawaii

Kalakaua Park soon took on the characteristics of a New England town square, surrounded by important civic buildings such as the District Courthouse and Police Station, and the U.S. Post Office and Office Building. In 1932, the old county courthouse and Coney house were replaced with what is now the East Hawaii Cultural Center (EHCC), a building that once served as the old police station and county courthouse.

The transformation of the park into its current form began in earnest in 1933, with the help of landscape architects Robert O. Thompson and his wife Catherine. Their vision included retaining the iconic banyan tree at the west end of the park and creating a shallow stage with three stone-edged grass terraces. A shallow pool, measuring 150 feet by 15 feet, was also constructed at the lower end of the park. This work was completed by February 1934, giving the park its distinctive layout.

The Banyan Tree and Kalākaua Statue

One of the most striking features of Kalakaua Park is the magnificent banyan tree, planted by Sheriff and later Postmaster Luther Severance in 1882. This tree has stood the test of time, surviving at least one attempt to cut it down after it damaged a water main. The banyan tree provides a lush canopy and a sense of tranquility to the park, making it a favorite spot for visitors seeking shade and relaxation.

At the center of the park stands a bronze statue of King Kalākaua, sculpted by Henry Bianchini and dedicated on August 6, 1988. The statue, which depicts the king holding a taro leaf and an ipu (a gourd used in ancient chants), symbolizes the bond between native Hawaiians and the land (aina) and the king's revival of ancient Hawaiian culture. The statue's seated pose was chosen to bring the king closer to the people and to avoid being overshadowed by the banyan tree's branches.

War Memorial and Sundial

Kalakaua Park is also home to a poignant war memorial dedicated to those who died in World War II from the Island of Hawaiʻi. Conceived in 1943 by the Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce and completed in 1948, the monument was designed by sculptor Roy King and is made from Vermont Danby Imperial white marble. The memorial features a central figure of a winged fighting man, representing all combat forces, with wings symbolizing protection and peace. Inscribed on the monument are the names of 157 soldiers and sailors from Hawaiʻi Island who were killed during World War II, as well as those who died in the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

Another historical artifact in the park is the sundial, erected in 1877 to commemorate the proclamations read by Queen Emma and King David Kalakaua from the old courthouse lanai. This sundial serves as a reminder of the park's historical significance and its role in the community's civic life.

A Place of Reflection and Celebration

Today, Kalakaua Park is more than just a historical site; it is a place of reflection, celebration, and community gathering. The park's lush green lawns, shaded by the sprawling banyan tree, provide a peaceful retreat for visitors and locals alike. The shallow pool and stone-edged grass terraces add to the park's charm, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation.

The park also plays a significant role in the annual Merrie Monarch Festival, a major cultural event held in Hilo that celebrates Hawaiian culture and hula. Named in honor of King Kalākaua, often called the Merrie Monarch for his efforts to revive ancient Hawaiian traditions, the festival brings the community together and highlights the park's cultural importance.

Conclusion

Kalakaua Park in Hilo, Hawaii, is a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the area. From its early days as a Christian mission site to its transformation into a vibrant town square, the park has been a central part of the community for nearly two centuries. With its historical landmarks, serene green spaces, and cultural significance, Kalakaua Park offers visitors a unique and enriching experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, Kalakaua Park is a must-visit destination in Hilo.