The island of O‘ahu is home to many historical events and sites. The fire service in the State of Hawai‘i started on O‘ahu with the establishment of the Honolulu Fire Department on December 27, 1850, by an ordinance signed by King Kamehameha III and enacted into law by the Hawaiian Legislature on January 11, 1851.
Shortly thereafter, King Kamehameha IV established the Royal Mausoleum or Mauna ʻAla in 1865, which serves as a centralized burial site for the Hawaiian monarchy. Notable Hawaiian monarchs, such as King Kamehameha III, King Kamehameha IV, Queen Emma, and other members of the royal family, are entombed at Mauna ʻAla.
In 1882, King Kalākaua built ʻIolani Palace, which was the official residence of Hawaiʻiʻs monarchy. It was a marvel of opulence, innovation, and political intrigue. It remained a royal residence until Queen Liliʻuokalani was deposed and the Hawaiian monarchy overthrown in 1893. Thereafter, it served as capitol of the Provisional Government, Republic, Territory, and State of Hawaiʻi until 1969.
This year’s Hawaii Fire Chiefs Association Business and Training Conference offers docent-led tours of Mauna ʻAla and ʻIolani Palace. This all-day excursion will start with a brief orientation at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort followed by a tour of Mauna ʻAla, lunch in Chinatown, and ending with a tour of ʻIolani Palace. Transportation to all events will be provided.
This is a great opportunity to explore and learn about the rich history of the Hawaiian monarchy with unique docent-led tours that most people never have a chance to experience.