Fun with Maps ISSUE 2024-221
By Steve Kovacs (Introduction by Chuck Gibson)
LOVELAND, OH (December 12, 2024) – In this edition of Fun with Maps we celebrate the U.S. visit of an island King.
Monarch
The first reigning monarch to visit the US commenced 150 years ago, on December 12, 1874, when King Kalakaua of Hawaii visited.
Kalakaua wanted to modernize Hawaii, and forged close ties with the US, and in return, the US received exclusive right to harbor, re-stock and repair Naval vessels at Pearl Harbor.
He also traveled around the globe, soliciting laborers to work the Hawaiian plantations.
He was the last king, but his sister, Liliuokalani, was the last monarch, ascending to the throne upon her brother’s death. The monarchy was overthrown in 1893, and Hawaii became a US territory 5 years later.
The Hawaiian Airline map presented here shows the islands from 1960.
Hawaii – by Hawaiian Airlines – Circa 1960 (Credit Steve Kovacs)
Steve Kovacs and his wife Theresa reside in Loveland, Ohio where they raised their two children. He is a passionate collector of antique maps.
Visit his antique map boutique world-on-paper online. Watch for his daily feature Steve Kovacs: Fun with Maps here on Loveland Beacon.
