On Aug. 10, a picture on Page B3 showed the president of the Ahahui Ka‘ahumanu ringing the Nagasaki Peace Bell. The caption said she was the “president of local civic club Ahahui Kaahumanu.” Point of clarification: the Ahuahui Ka‘ahumanu is not a civic club.

The Ahahui Ka‘ahumanu is a benevolent society originally founded by Princess Victoria Kamamalu, Chiefess Lydia Kamakaeha Dominis (who became Queen Liliuokalani), and Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop in 1863. However, due to the untimely death of Princess Kamamalu in 1866, the society was disbanded.

The founders decided to name the society after Queen Ka‘ahumanu, the first kuhina nui. Queen Ka‘ahumanu possessed strong leadership qualities, was highly intellectual and fearlessly pursued justice and equality for her people.

On June 14, 1905, the Ahahui Ka‘ahumanu was reinstated and once again became active. Lucy Kaheiheimalie Peabody, along with 11 of her friends, became the first chartered members of this society. In June 2020, the Ahahui Ka‘ahumanu will celebrate 115 years as a benevolent society.

May Holokai

Maili

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