About These Essays
In 1994, Henry Hawai'i Broadcasting, Inc., proposed that
the Hawaiian Historical Society participate in a program to provide
historical information in a way that would appeal to the listening
public. The program, modeled after a similar one the company had
instituted in Fresno, California,
would consist of a series of short essays on items
of historical interest prepared under the auspices of the Hawaiian
Historical Society.
Society President Thomas K. Lalakea perceived an opportunity
for the public to enjoy some of the extensive historical research
that has been conducted by the many contributors to The Hawaiian
Journal of History. Other contributions would also be welcomed.
With the endorsement of the Board of Trustees, the Hawaiian Historical
Society agreed to provide an initial contribution of 30 essays
and to continue if sufficient material was provided by volunteer
authors.
Dr. Helen G. Chapin, former editor of The Hawaiian Journal
of History, undertook to adapt previously published articles
to a brief, lively, and descriptive format. Bob Schmitt, retired
statistician, author, and researcher of Hawaiian history, generously
contributed many of his Hawai'i "firsts" for use in the program.
Their contributions and those of the other authors made it possible
to broadcast a total of 118 radio spots.
Beginning in June 1994, the one-minute radio spots were broadcast
over a period of approximately six months. Titled a Hawai'i History
Moment, they were featured twice daily, at 6:30 a.m. and 4:30
p.m. on Radio Station KHVH, Honolulu.
