This morning we visited ‘Iolani Palace, which is the only official place in the United States. It was completed in 1882 with the most modern of features-including indoor plumbing-by King Kalakaua. (The tour guide told a very funny “royal flush” story).
The King was known for throwing fantastic parties. We saw a beautiful dining hall and exquisite throne room, which was also used for royal balls.
After the passing of King Kalakaua, his sister, Queen Lili`uokalani, took the throne in 1891. In 1893 she was stripped of most of her power, but worked to restore power to the monarchy over the next few years. This was considered an act against the state, and resulted in her imprisonment in 1895. She was kept in a single area of the palace, with limited amenities, for an eight month period.
Overall, the palace was beautiful (sorry, no pictures allowed inside) and the history of the building has left me wanting to learn more about the history of Hawaii. For example, did you know there is, in fact, and heir to the throne living in Hawaii today!
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