Our Founder
King Kamehameha V
King Kamehameha V (Lot Kapuaiwa) was a powerful and visionary leader who ruled the Kingdom of Hawaii from 1863 until his death in 1872. He was the grandson of King Kamehameha I, who famously united the Hawaiian Islands and established the kingdom.
King Kamehameha V was known for his strong sense of duty and his deep commitment to preserving Hawaiian heritage and culture. He was a patron of the arts and a champion of education, establishing schools and libraries throughout the kingdom.
One of King Kamehameha V’s most lasting contributions to Hawaiian history was the creation of the Royal Order of Kamehameha I in 1865. This fraternal organization was founded to honor the legacy of King Kamehameha I and to promote Hawaiian culture and heritage. Today, the Royal Order of Kamehameha I remains an important symbol of Hawaiian pride and a testament to King Kamehameha V’s vision and leadership.
King Kamehameha V’s reign was a time of great change and challenge for the Hawaiian people, but his unwavering commitment to their well-being and his efforts to preserve their cultural heritage have made him a beloved and revered figure in Hawaiian history
“We are desirous to cultivate and develop among our subjects the feelings of honor and loyalty to our dynasty, and its institutions.”
Kamehameha V, 1865 Royal Decree
Our Restoration
Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole
Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole was a Hawaiian statesman, warrior, and prince who lived from 1871 to 1922. He was a member of the Hawaiian royal family and was deeply committed to preserving Hawaiian culture and heritage.
Throughout his life, Prince Kuhio was a tireless advocate for the Hawaiian people, working to improve their social, economic, and political conditions. He served in the Hawaiian legislature and was a powerful voice for Hawaiian rights and independence.
One of Prince Kuhio’s greatest contributions to Hawaiian history was his role in the restoration of the Royal Order of Kamehameha I. After the order went underground following the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani, Prince Kuhio led a torchlight ceremony in 1903 to publicly announce the restoration of the order. He also played a key role in the reorganization of Hawaiian royal societies and the creation of Hawaiian civic clubs, further cementing his legacy as a champion of Hawaiian culture and heritage.
Today, Prince Kuhio is remembered as a beloved figure in Hawaiian history, honored for his unwavering commitment to the Hawaiian people and his tireless efforts to preserve and promote Hawaiian culture. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of Hawaiians to work towards a brighter future for their people and their land.
“To inoculate the cardinal principles of friendship, charity and benevolence; to provide for sick and funeral benefits; to aid the widows and orphans; and to improve the social and moral conditions of its members.”
Hawaii Chapter No. 1, Order of Kamehameha, 1907 Charter