King Kaumuali‘i of Kauai decided to send his son Humehume (George Prince) to America, at least, in part, to receive a formal education. Kaumuali‘i provided Captain Rowan of the Hazard with, reportedly, about $7,000 to $8,000, an amount the king felt sufficient to cover the cost of his son’s passage and the expenses of his education.

George was about six years old when he boarded the Hazard that ultimately sailed into Providence, Rhode Island on June 30, 1805 after a year-and-a-half at sea. Over the next few years he made his way to Worcester, Massachusetts.

Humehume eventually enlisted in the US Navy and was wounded during the War of 1812. After the war ended, he was again thrown upon the world and without any means of obtaining a livelihood, or any one to care for him, ragged, dirty, and in want, he was again enlisted, and employed as a servant to the purser of the Navy Yard in Charlestown.

Humehume was “discovered” and taken under the wing of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions (ABCFM). He was sent, along with Henry Ōpūkaha’ia and other Hawaiian youths, to be educated at the Foreign Mission School at Cornwall, Connecticut. (Warne)

On October 23, 1819, the Pioneer Company of the American Protestant missionaries set sail on the Thaddeus for Hawai‘i – (two Ordained Preachers, Hiram & Sybil Bingham and Asa and Lucy Thurston; two Teachers, Samuel & Mercy Whitney and Samuel & Mary Ruggles; a Doctor, Thomas & Lucia Holman; a Printer, Elisha & Maria Loomis; and a Farmer, Daniel Chamberlain (and his family.)

With the missionaries were four Hawaiian students from the Foreign Mission School, Thomas Hopu, William Kanui, John Honoliʻi and Humehume (son of Kauaʻi’s King Kaumuali‘i.) They arrived in Kailua-Kona on April 4, 1820.

After the Thaddeus departed, George remained in Kailua-Kona and took Betty Davis, the half-Hawaiian daughter of Isaac Davis, as his wife, or his “rib” as he described her. In a short time they rejoined the missionary party in Honolulu. (Spoehr)

Ruggles and Whitney take Humehume home to Kauai.

May 2, 1820 – The Thaddeus left the harbor, to touch at Atooi and proceed to the N.W. coast. Agreeably to our united views and the wishes of G.P.T., brothers Whitney and Ruggles sailed with him to introduce him and our business to his father, to interest the chiefs in our object, to survey the island of Atooi, and to return the first favorable opportunity. We made out a considerable present for George, of a variety of useful articles, besides the Bass viol which he took with him, for which he appeared grateful. He expressed a sense of obligation, and a desire to make some return for the kindness he had received. With tears he took an affectionate leave of us, being commended to the grace of an unchangable merciful God. May that grace make him a comfort to his father, a blessing to his country, an honor to his benefactors and an heir of final glory. And may the gracious blessing of him who sent out his disciples two and two rest on these our two brethren, and crown this important enterprize with such success as shall best promote his glory. (Thaddeus Journal)

(T)he brethren resolved, that as the Thaddeus was about to land George Tamoree at his native island, it would be useful for Messrs. Whitney and Ruggles to accompany him thither, with a view to make known to the king and people of Atooi the designs of the missionaries, and to explore that field of labor. Accordingly they sailed from Woahoo on the 2nd. of May, the property belonging to the mission having been first landed, and the various members of the family having obtained houses for their temporary residence. George was received by his father with the utmost joy and tenderness. King Tamoree had believed, for a considerable number of years, that his son was dead, notwithstanding he had received from sea-captains many assurances to the contrary. The strong affection which the return of a long-lost son would excite, may easily be conceived. The father was highly gratified, also, with the attainments, which George had made in useful knowledge, during his residence among a civilized people. These circumstances appeared very favor able to the introduction of missionaries into Atooi. Of this the king was very desirous, and earnestly intreated Messrs. Whitney and Ruggles to settle there; offering to support them entirely at his own expense, and as many others as would join them in their benevolent labors. He appeared very anxious to learn many of the principal facts, which relate to the history of the world, and the introduction of Christianity; and to wish that knowledge might be communicated to his subjects. Beside missionaries and school masters he wished to obtain several mechanics and a farmer, who might set an example of useful labor, and thus teach others. (12th Annual Meeting Report of the ABCFM, 1821)

May 2nd.
Today brother Whitney and I have been called to leave our dear little number at Woahoo (Oahu) to accompany George P. Tamoree to his native Isle and to the bosom of his Father. It was to us trying to part from our dear brethren and sisters, and especially from the- dear companions of our bosom, not knowing when an opportunity would offer for us to return, as vessels rarly sail from Attooi (Kauai); to the windward Isles. But if duty has called, us to the separation, we trust that a gracious God will in his own time return us again to the embraces of our friends and permit us to rejoice together in his goodness. 0 that the Lord will go with us and be our preserver from sin and temptation, and our guide and director in all duty. If we are blessed as instruments of preparing the way for the introduction of the Gospel on that Island, we shall be compensated for all our trial & privation. We have a fine breeze which we expect will take us to Attooi (Kauai) in. 24 hours. – (Samuel Ruggles)

May 2. I have just taken leave of Mr. W who has embarked for Atooi to accompany George P Tamaree to the bosom of his friends. It is uncertain when he will return, as he knows of no conveyance back. It was the expectation of American friends, and the united opinion of the brethren, that George should not return alone to was father; accordingly brother R (Samuel Ruggles) and Mr. W (Whitney) were selected to go with him. Their chief and great object is to explore the island. May god bless them and much make them instruments of good to its wretched inhabitants. (Mercy Partridge Whitney Journal)

May 3, 1820
May. 3 – By one of the Kings schooners, Joseph Banks, Master, an intelligent young native who speaks English and is very friendly, we received a letter from Brother Thurston, informing us that the king had given them the use of a large cooking stove and furnished them with a comfortable supply of fresh provisions; that he had learned to read in words of two syllables; that he and Adams, and the chief women were much pleased, friendly and desirous to learn; that Dr. Holman has considerable to do as a physician in healing the sick … and that he is quite successful; and that Tamooi resides with the king and confines his attention to the instruction of the Regal family; that they were invited on the first day of the feast to dine at the King’s table spread under the shade of green trees; that on both days of the feast Reehoreeho behaved himself with great propriety and did not drink to his injury; that many thousand people collected at the time shouted and sung the great and good deeds performed by the late Ring and expected from his son and successor. Brother T. states also that ‘people come from all parts of Owhyhee to see us. Our house has been surrounded every day by 40 or 50 natives, men, women and children.’ Mrs. Thurston writes, ‘On these heathen shores, even during the great feast days, I have felt as safe as if I had been in any native land; – the natives appear inoffensive and friendly and as far as has fallen under my observation have uniformly conducted themselves with propriety.’ Thus flattering indeed are our prospects but He who loves to try his people knows what unexpected clouds may darken our way, and what thorns may yet infest our path. (Thaddeus Journal)

3rd. Made Attooi at daylight this morning. Like all the other Islands its first appearance was rude and. mountainous, but on approaching nearer, beautiful plains and fruitful vallies presented themselves to view, looking almost like the cultivated fields of America, while large groves of cocoanuts and bananas waved their tops as if to welcome us to their shores. Thought I while passing these pleasant fields, can this be one of the dark places of the earth which is filled with the habitation of cruelty? Has the sun of righteousness never yet shone upon it? Is it a fact that the immortal beings are shrouded in midnight darkness, without one minister of Christ to direct them to the city of refuge, the place of rest and glory? Alas, they are heathens.

Their mean and scanty dwellings and the appearance, of men, women, and children coming off to us naked, plainly bespeak that they are yet savages, ignorant of God and unacquainted with the precepts of the gospel. They have indeed thrown away their idols as worthless things unable to save them, but they have not heard of Jesus, no Christian has yet said to them, there is a God in heaven who made them and the world, nor pointed them to the Saviour, the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world. 0 thou God of nations, herd make Thyself known; here plant Thy cross, and possess this land.

At 11 o’clock came to anchor at Wimai (Waimea), opposite the fort. A canoe came off to us with several of the King’s men, one of whom could speak English. George had. kept himself concealed in the cabin until we told, him that one of his father’s favorite men was on board, and we thought best that his arrival should be made known to him. We then introduced him to the young prince; He embraced him and kissed him without saying a word and turned around, immediately went on deck, and into his canoe telling his companions, they must go on shore, for their young master had come. A salute of 21 guns was soon fired from the brig and returned from the fort.

Brother W., George, and myself, made preparations and came on shore on account of the surf. We were obliged to land, half a mile west of the King’s house. We were there met by a crowd of natives who would have obstructed our way entirely, had there not been men appointed to clear a passage for us, which they did by beating them off with clubs. When we arrived at the house, Tamoree and his Queen were reclining on a sofa; as soon as George entered the door, his father arose clasped him in his arms and pressed his nose to his son’s after the manner of the country, both were unable to speak for some time. The scene was truly affecting. I know not when I have wept more freely.

When they had become a little composed, Tamoree spoke and said his heart was so joyful that he could not talk much till to-morrow, but discovering brother W. and myself, who had till then remained, unnoticed, he enquired who we were. George then introduced us to him as his friends who had come from America to accompany him home. The old gentleman then embraces us in the same manner as he had done his son, frequently putting his nose to ours and calling us his hicahne (aikane) or friends.

A supper was soon provided for us consisting of a couple of hogs baked, whole after the American manner, several fowls and a dog cooked after the style of the Island, together with potatoes, tarro, bananas, cocoanuts, and watermelons, brandy, gin, wines, &c. The table was set in good style; our supper was indeed excellent. A new house was assigned for brother W. and myself during our stay on the Island, a few rods from the King’s and several men to attend upon us. We shall now retire to rest after Rooking up to God with thanksgiving for mercies already received and humbly praying that a blessing may attend our visit to these heathens. Perhaps it will be the first Christian prayer that was ever offered to God on this Island. (Samuel Ruggles)

May 3, Yesterday brethren R and myself left Oʻahu in the brig Thaddeus to accompany George, Tamoree to his father king of Atooi. At 12 o’clock today we anchored in the Whyma-ah bay opposite the king’s house. It appeared that one of our signals, with which they were unacquainted had excited some alarm, four of the king’s men were sent off to enquire and the object of our ceremony.

One of those who could speak a little English was introduced to George; immediately they all jumped into the canoe and paddle off in the utmost hast saying we must go and tell his father. A salute of twenty one guns was fired from brig and answered by as many from the fort. Soon after Capt brother R & myself a company George to his father’s house.

The king and queen were sitting on a sofa by the door, surrounded by a large company of the principal man. The introduction was truly affecting. With an anxious heart and trembling arms the aged father rose to embrace his long lost son. Both were too much affected to speak. Silence for a few moments persuaded the whole, whilst the tears trickling down their sable cheeks spoke the feelings of nature.

After the agitation had a little subsided we were introduced to Tameree, as persons who had left our native country and had come to reside at the Islands for the purpose of instructing the natives. He then joined noses with us (the fashion of the country) and said it is good. I am glad to see you. A table was soon set in very grand stile and we were invited to sit down to dinner. In the eve a house was prepared for brethren R and myself, and we retired much pleasure with this present of usefulness. … the subject of having his people taught the word of God – come and live with us, says he, and I will build you a large church. My subjects shall keep the Sabbath, and we will learn to pray and saying to God. (Samuel Whitney Journal)

“May 4. This morning early, I went to the king’s house, and was met at the door by himself and the queen, who took me by each arm, led me in and seated me between them upon the sofa; and after having several times put their noses, to mine, the king inquired if it was true that I had lived with Hoomehoome (the real name of George) in America …”

“… and eat with him, and slept with him, saying his son had told him many things that he could not fully understand, and that I had been his friend a long time, and would stay here and instruct his people to read. “

“told him it was true, and that the good people of America who loved his son, and loved him and his people, had sent several men and women to instruct his people to read and work as they do in America.”

“When I told him this, he, with his wife, broke out in one voice, ‘miti, miti, nove loah aloha America;’ that is, ‘good, good, very great love for America;’ and then burst into tears. After a short time, he asked me how long I would be willing to stay and teach his island.”

“I told him I wished to spend my life here, and die here. He then embraced me again, and said, ‘kacke vo’u oe, mahkooah oe o-ou wihena o ou mahkooah oe,’ that is, ‘you my son, I you father, my wife you mother.’ I endeavoured to tell him something about God, but the subject was entirely new to him, and he could understand but little.”

“10th. This morning Tamoree sent for me — said his interpreter was going away to be gone several days, and he wished to say a few things to me before he went.”

“I want to know, says he, if you love Hoomehoome, if you love me, if you like to stay here and learn my people, I assured him that I loved his son and him and I wished to spend my life in doing them good, and not only I but Mr. Whitney, and all who came with us wished the same.”

“Hoomehoome tell me so, says he; he then shed tears freely and said, I love Hoomehoome; I love him very much more than my other children. I thought he was dead; I cry many times because I think he was dead.”

“Some Captains tell me he live in America, but I not believe; I say no, he dead, he no come back. But he live, he come again; my heart very glad. I want my son to help me; he speaks English, and can do my business.”

“But he is young; young men are sometimes wild they want advice. I want you stay here and help Hoomehoome, and when vessels come, you and Hoomehoome go on board and trade, so I make you chief.”

“I told him I wished not to be a chief, neither could I do any of his public business, but was willing to advise his son and assist him in every thing consistent with the object for which we came to his Island. He expressed some surprise when I told him I wished not to be a chief, but when I explained to him what we wished to do ; he appeared satisfied and pleased.”

“This afternoon the king sent to me and requested that I would come and read to him in his bible. I read the first chapter of Genesis and explained to him what I read as well as I could.”

“He listened with strict attention, frequently asking pertinent questions, and said I can’t understand it all; I want to know it ; you must learn my language fast, and then tell me all – No white man before, ever read to me and talk like you.” (Ruggles Journal)

Kapule, King Kaumuali‘i’s wife, dictated a letter to Nancy Ruggles’ mother – it was written down verbatim, and copied by herself in a plain legible manner.

“Dear Friend, Atooi, July 28, 1820”

“I am glad your daughter come here, I shall be her mother now, and she be my daughter. I be good to her; give her tappa; give her mat; give her plenty eat.”

“By and by your daughter speak Owhyhee; then she learn me how to read, and write, and sew; and talk of that Great Akooah, which the good people in America love.”

“I begin spell little: read come very hard, like stone. You very good, send your daughter great way to teach the heathen. I am very glad I can write you a short letter, and tell you that I be good to your daughter.”

“I send you my aloha, and tell you I am Your Friend, Charlotte Tapoolee, Queen of Atooi”

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Finally, all of the missionaries are on the land. Then, on April 23, 1820, Hiram Bingham holds the first public worship on O‘ahu – “Luke 2. 10. ‘Fear not, for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people’.”

“The theme, the scene, the opening prospect – the dawning light of a brighter day, conspired to animate our hearts and awaken an unusual joy in our souls while we seemed to be favored with the special presence of him who was born in the city of David, a Savior, even Christ the Lord. The natives are much pleased with our singing, aided by the Bass viol played by Tamoree [Humehume].”

April 20, 1820 “We rise this morning for the first time from our slumbers on heathen ground – In circumstances of real comfort and new obligations of gratitude to the Watchman of Israel who has kept our habitations in peace and given us refreshing rent In its season. The garrison at the fort as often as once an hour during the night, give a loud shout, partly in their native tongue and partly in broken English, of this impart, – All awake! Hoorau!” (Thaddeus Journal)

20th ‘all the mission family took leave of the brig to take up their residence on shore in houses voluntarily offered to them by some of the white residents at this place.’ (James Hunnewell)

April 20. Yesterday we were permitted to take up our residence in a heathen land. Two or three days have been occupied in landing and taking care of our things. Several white men who live here are very kind and have shown us many favors. Capt Babcock master of an American vessel, who has resided a year or two on the Island has kindly offered us his storehouse where we may put our goods and keep them safe. I believe I wrote to you when at Boston that I was informed we could get at our chests which were stowed in the hold in two or three months; and on account of the vessel being much crowded especially our little rooms, I had many things put away into the hold which I expected to take out, when it was opened, especially my dried fruit. But as might chests arrived before the vessel was much loaded, they were put away where we were not able to get to them on the passage, notwithstanding the hold was opened several times. I expected many of my things would spoil, but when I opened my chest and found much of them had kept perfectly safe, I wished to thank my dear mother and sisters for the care in which they look to have my goods dry before they were packed. … (Mercy Partridge Whitney Journal)

April 21, 1820

21. – Continued the business of regulating our goods and making ourselves comfortable in our new situation. (Thaddeus Journal)

April 22, 1820

22. – We find some difficulty in procuring convenient storerooms for all our baggage, furniture and goods, because the storehouses that are considered safe are generally occupied, and we fear to expose many of them in what are generally called straw-houses – they are so liable to destruction by fire. (Thaddeus Journal)

April 23, 1820

23. – Today, for the first time we have public worship on land. A considerable audience of European and American residents, Masters and officers of vessels, chiefs, sailors, and common natives, assembled In and around the house occupied by Brother B[ingham] to hear the sound of the gospel for the first time on these ling neglected heathen shores. Brother B[ingham] preached from Luke 2. 10. ‘Fear not, for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people’. The theme, the scene, the opening prospect – the dawning light of a brighter day, conspired to animate our hearts and awaken an unusual joy in our souls while we seemed to be favored with the special presence of him who was born in the city of David, a Savior, even Christ the Lord. The natives are much pleased with our singing, aided by the Bass viol played by Tamoree [Humehume]. (Thaddeus Journal)

April 23rd, Sabbath. With what interest would our friends in America look upon us to-day, could they cast an eye over the wide waters and behold! The season is truly an interesting one. Probably the first sabbath in which the worship of Jehovah was ever observed in these pagan Isles. We have had divine service to-day in our own dwelling – our straw-thatched cottage – the congregation composed of white residents and Commanders of vessels now lying at the harbour, with many of the natives seated on the mats and surrounding the door. One of the oldest residents, Mr. H -, at the sound of the songs of Zion had the tears upon his furrowed cheek. He had heard nothing of the kind for more than twenty years. He is a native of Mass. 0, that it might appear that the gospel is not sent to him and others, after this long voluntary banishment from it, in vain! (Sybil Bingham)

April 23. This has been an interesting Sabbath to us all. Attending attended a meeting at brother B[inghams]’s. The chief, several of the natives, and between 20 and 30 white men were present, besides the mission family. The chief had a manned by his side to interpret the sermon as fast as delivered. He was very attentive, and appeared pleased with the preaching. What an interesting thought that after ages have rolled away and clouds of superstition and ignorance have darkened the minds of this people, the gospel is now preached and pardon and salvation offered to them through a crucified Redeemer. May God give them the ears to hear and heart to understand and obey the truth. (Mercy Partridge Whitney Journal)

“Immediately on landing, the missionaries commenced the public and private worship of God, which they had regularly maintained down to the last intelligence from them. On the Sabbath, they preached not only to the mission family, but to many residents, officers of vessels, and seamen, who were occasionally present. In some instances, they preached on board of ships, at the request of the masters.

Thus many immortal beings, speaking our language most of them our countrymen, were again favored with the proclamation of the Gospel, after a long absence from the means of grace. It is, indeed, a very important consideration, respecting this mission, that it brings divine truth to some, who have voluntarily, through a long portion of their lives, exiled themselves from the sanctuary; and to others, who would gladly hear the things, which belong to their peace, though from their pursuits they have seldom enjoyed the preaching of the Gospel.

When the missionaries preached, whether on deck or on shore, a very respectful attention was given by the hearers generally; and strong hopes were entertained, that two or three mates of the Thaddeus had experienced great and permanent benefit, from the religious instruction, which they had heard during the voyage, and after their arrival.

In this connexion it may be proper to state, that the masters of vessels, almost without an exception, showed kindness to the mission family, and appeared to wish great success to the under taking. From their acquaintance with the chiefs, and from the trade which is carried on at the islands, they have it in their power to exert a very salutary influence over the minds of the natives.

For every instance, in which they availed themselves of this power, to render the situation of the missionaries comfortable, they will receive the cordial thanks of all the friends of missions, to whom the knowledge of their kindness is communicated.

Among the visitors, whose attentions had a cheering effect upon the minds of the missionaries, the name of Captain Valentine Starbuck, formerly of Nantucket, but now master of a London whaler, deserves to be particularly mentioned. During several visits of considerable length, he manifested a great interest in the mission, and liberally imparted to it such articles as he could conveniently spare, beside subscribing generously to a school fund of which he and others laid the foundation. (12th Annual Meeting Report of the ABCFM, 1821)

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April 15, 1820 “Renewed our researches on shore but could not do much business, in consequence of the continued absence of the Governor, the Brig Neo, from Owhyhee, the King’s vessel, arrived with a messenger, bringing the general orders of government with respect to us. Tamoree, also, who left the Thaddeus at Owhyhee, arrived on the Neo with his newly set ‘Rib’ . We are told that a native who had stolen a piece of calico from the King was put on board the neo in irons, and then thrown overboard on her passage and drowned. Death is the penalty for stealing the King’s property. (Thaddeus Journal)

April 16, 1820 “Lord. Day. – Enjoyed the privileges of public worship probably for the 1st time on board the Thaddeus. Boka [Boki] arrived in port this afternoon but we shall not seek an interview with him till tomorrow.” (Thaddeus Journal)

April 17, 1820 “Obtained permission to enter the harbor, the Governor came on board. He is a young chief and apparently mild and easy in his disposition, less sprightly than some of his countrymen and distinguished for his moderation, says but little and appears by no means unfriendly to us or our object but somewhat indifferent to the message from Owhyhee; but, as the people are naturally and habitually slow in their movements we hope that he may yet bestir himself with more efficiency to promote our design. (Thaddeus Journal)

April 18, 1820 “Entered the harbor in safety and anchored within a few yards of the shore. We have concluded to occupy one or two houses belonging to Capt. Winship, who by letter to Mr. Marin has kindly favored us with the refusal of them. Mr. Scovill, an officer of Capt. Louis has also very politely offered us the use of Capt. L’s house which we shall occupy for a season, Capt. Adams and Mr. Nevano have each offered us a house.
Capt. Balcock and Mr. Oliver also, have both offered us the temporary use of their store rooms for our effects. Thus the Lord raises up friends for as at the moment when most we feel the need of them. The sisters went on shore to see the houses which we intend to occupy, – were surrounded with crowds of natives, and they walked along the plain upon which the village is built and excited great curiosity and returned.” (Thaddeus Journal)

April 19, 1820 “Having at length succeeded in making the necessary arrangements casting ourselves again on the oars of divine providence, and putting ourselves in the power and possession of uncivilized pagans and strangers, on this Interesting day we disembarked from the board that had borne us in safety across the mighty waters, from our dear native land, and here took up our abode in this dark heathen land, which will be the scene of our labors and sufferings, and probably the resting place of our bones when our toils are over and our pilgrimage is ended.

“Capt. C. and his family take their lodgings in Capt. Winship’s house. Bros. B. R. and L. with their wives, in Capt. Louis’s, about 40 rods distant from the other, and Bro. W and his wife in a house between belonging to Mr. Novano. As a specimen of the slyness of our new neighbors the key of Capt. Louis’ house was stolen from the door immediately after we entered it this afternoon, probably by some of the natives who crowded around to gratify their curiosity.”

“Capt. Pigot and Mr. Green, with their usual kindness, anticipating our wants, provided for us a supper in the American style, which we were unable to do for ourselves. As soon as the bustle of landing was over, and our belongings in our straw-thatched cottages, comfortably fitted up, we built an altar to the Lord our God, and agreeably to a previous engagement with our brethren at Owhyhee who landed a week before, presented our united offerings of thanksgiving and praise to Jehovah, that he had preserved our lives and graciously delivered us from the ‘perils in the sea,’ given us so prosperous a passage and ministered to us so propitious an entrance among the heathen, that in answer to the prayers of his people, of our friends and patrons, he had wonderfully prepared the way before us, by destroying the temples of idols and the institutions of Idol worship, abolishing the priesthood of superstition, overturning the altars of abomination, and bringing their idle Taboos and sacrifices into general contempt. The Lord be praised forever for his goodness and for his wonderful works unto the children of men.” (Thaddeus Journal)

“April 19, 1820 – By the friendly exertions of Capt. Picket and several other American gentlemen, we have obtained three of the most convenient houses in the village, and today left the Thaddeus, and taken us our residence on land. I hardly know how it will seem to sleep on a bed and not be obliged to brace myself, to keep from rolling out.” (Nancy Ruggles)

“19th, ‘the ladies belonging to the mission all landed to see the houses which have been provided for them. I went on shore to try to procure a house to store our goods in, but did not succeed in getting one to my mind.’” (James Hunnewell)

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With the decision to allow some of the missionaries to stay at Kailua-Kona on April 11, 1820 – the 12th was “A busy, trying, joyful and important day. … As the Brig lay about a mile from the shore, the boats were employed all day in transporting their goods &c to the beach, and several of the King’s men with one of the brethren removed them from the beach to the house.” (Thaddeus Journal)

While the Thaddeus had arrived at Kawaihae on March 30 and into Kailua-Kona on April 4, and several on board had gone ashore at sometime – we learn some of the missionaries had not yet set foot on land until April 12.

Mercy Whitney noted in her journal on April 12, 1820, “This morning for the first time, I set foot on heathen ground. After a voyage of five months & a half, you need not wonder if I tell you I found it difficult to walk much on land, without being fatigued.”

“I went to the house (or rather hut) where our brethren are to reside. It is about 20 feet square. It has but one room, and in it are two windows and the door. In one corner of the room was a bedstead, two sides were fastened to the wall, the other two were supported by the stump of the cocoanut tree. Instead of a cord, there were around sticks laid a few inches from each other. These were covered with a thick bed of straw and on the top there was a mat spread. The hut is made of sticks and a kind of flag curiosity worked together. Which renders it a comfortable habitation.”

I saw the ruins of idolatry, four idols standing on the shore near the place where we landed. They are made of carved wood, about eight or ten feet in height. Their heads are nearly as large as a bushel basket, resembling the picture of Satan more than anything else. These I understood are sold for firewood. After tea, we took leave of our brethren and sisters who are to remain behind. Capt Blanchard and Brother B[ingham] accompanied them to land.” (Mercy Partridge Whitney Journal)

On April 12, Samuel Ruggles noted, “We shall sail for Woahoo [O‘ahu] about 10 o’clock tonight.” (Samuel Ruggles)

For some, seasickness returned, April 13, 1820, “Several of the family feel the motion of the Brig so much as to be seasick again, particularly Brother Ruggles and Mrs. Loomis who were often afflicted in a particular manner whenever we had a rough sea during the whole long passage from America.” (Thaddeus Journal)

“Early this morning [April 14, 1820] as we pass Morotoi [Molokai] and Rani [Lāna‘i], the Island of Woahoo [O‘ahu] presented to our view, first its pointed mountains end forests, then in succession its extended plains, its verdant hills and fertile valleys, its pleasant groves and streams, its grazing herds and flocks its thatched cottages and villages, its principal fort and harbor, … interesting inhabitants, far more worthy of our first attention then the inviting salubrity of its climate, the richness of its soil, or the luxurience of its vegetation.”

“We anchored outside of the harbor, and some of the brethren with Capt. B[lanchard] soon went ashore in the boat, called on Mr. Marin, a, Roman Catholic Spanish settler, who is interpreter for the government. He received us kindly. Informed us that Boka, the governor, was gone to another part of the Island, out as soon as he understood our business, he despatched two native servants on horse-back with a message, informing him of our arrival. Meantime paid our respects to the second in command at the fort, dined with Capt. Pigot, an American trader from New York, surveyed this part of the Island and returned highly gratified with this first excursion in this little whitening field where the Lord of the harvest seems evidently to have called us to labor.” (Thaddeus Journal)

“April 14. This morning we saw the island of Woahoo and before noon anchor anchored. Sailing along a little distance from the shore, we passed several beautiful groves of cocoanuts other trees, & saw a herd of cattle grazing on the plains. We are in sight of the village, but the wind is so high it is thought unsafe to enter the harbour today. Some of the brethren have been on shore and brought us a good report of the land. They say there is now on the island, almost all kinds of green sauer and fruit, which we used to have in America.” (Mercy Partridge Whitney Journal)

“April 14, 1820 – Arrived at Woahoo (Oahu) at 11 o’clock this morning and anchored near the village of Hanaroora (Honolulu). Brother B[ingham] & myself immediately went on shore and were received with much apparent friendship by a Capt. Picket, a gentleman who has resided several months in the Island. He invited, us to dine with him and generously offers to assist us in providing houses, and render us every other service in his power.” (Samuel Ruggles)

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