04/06/2026
As we start off this week, we are reminded the festival was dedicated to the memory of King David Kalakaua, the last reigning King of Hawaii. Elected to the throne in 1847, Kalakaua reign saw the revitalization of Hawaiian culture, including hula which had been outlawed in the Kingdom for over 40 years.
Known as “The Merrie Monarch”, Kalakaua was regarded as a lively and spirited King. He referred to hula as the “heartbeat of the Hawaii people” and spent his lifetime helping to restore pride in the Hawaiian culture. Today the Merrie Monarch festival honors his legacy by continuing to promote and preserve Hawaiian culture and history.
As seen in the photo above, King Kalakaua (center left) was a close friend and confidant of Samuel Parker (bottom left). Also pictured are Parker’s cousins Eben Lowe (top center) and Jack Lowe (bottom right)
Photo credit: Parker Ranch Collection