Joseph Nawahi: A Hawaiian Patriot and Renaissance Man 11/1/09

Image Courtesy: Maui Arts and Cultural Center.

Though little is known today, Joseph Nawahi was a Hawaiian patriot and Renaissance man.  A teacher, surveyor, lawyer, cabinet minister, newspaper editor, and artist, he was born in Puna, Hawaii on January 13, 1842.

Joseph Nawahi is an important figure for understanding Hawaiian history and Hawaiian sovereignty.  While a political prisoner, the harsh conditions of jail seriously affected his health, and he died in 1896.

Dr. Puakea Nogelmeier, Associate Professor of Hawaiian Language, notes that Nawahi is admired for several reasons.  “He’s handsome, he’s intelligent, he’s well-spoken, he’s well educated,” but above all, “His personal ethics were unimpeachable.”

Join Writer, Victoria Kneubuhl and actor Dr. Kalena Silva who will be on hand for the Sunday, November 1, 2009 showing of, “Biography Hawaii: Joseph Nawahi” at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, McCoy Studio Theater at 3 p.m. Both will be on hand to discuss the film.  This event is free and open to the public.

(Posted by Wendy Osher; Image courtesy Maui Arts & Cultural Center)