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P .2.
Minutes of the Prudential Meetings
of the
Mission Family
At a Meeting of the brethren composing the Mission to
[p.l]
the Sandwich Islands, on board the Brig Thaddeus, November 16,
1819, - Rev. Asa Thurston was chosen Chairman and Elisha
Loomis Clerk Voted - That Capt. Daniel Chamberlain and Dr* Thomas
Holman be a Committee to oversee the affairs of George P.
»
Tamoree.
That the domestic concerns and Provisions of the Mission
Family be committed to the care of Capt* Chamberlain, and that
brothers Samuel Whitney and Samuel Ruggles be his Assistants.
That the Medical Stores be committed to the care of Doct.
Thomas Holman.
That at our Meals all the Members of the Mission be
present, if convenient, and take their seats in order; that a
blessing be asked before the family is served;- and that no
member leave the table until thanks are returned, except by
leave of the Captain.
[p.2]
That the brethren of the Mission meet once a week for
prudential purposes. - Adjourned.
Nov.24.
The brethren met according to agreement, and chose brother
Bingham Chairman.
The subject of Studies, to be pursued by the
Missionaries during the voyage, was discussed.
Conversation
was also had respecting the administration of the Sacrament,
but no vote was taken.
�[1819-1820]
p. 3
Nov.26,1819. At a Meeting of the brethren, It was voted that the
Spirituous liquor, necessary for Thomas Hopoo, John Honoree,
and William Tennooe be kept by brother Whitney, to be given
to the above named persons, according to the direction of
Dr. Holman.
It is understood that the White Wine, divided among the
members of the Mission, be only used as a Medicine The clothing for T. Hopoo, J. Honoree, and Wm Tennooe is
to be kept by brother Whitaey, who shall distribute to them
according to their necessities, and keep an account of the
articles distributed. Dec.15,1819. Resolved
That each member of the Mission be supplied
with a dish and spoon which they are to keep in their posses
sion."
Resolved, That such of the brethern and sisters as
chose have tea in the morning,instead of coffee, if it shall
meet the approbation of Capt. Blanchard and that water gruel
be made for those who wish, for supper.
December 22, 1819.
Resolved
That It is expedient to observe the anniversary
of the birth of our Saviour.
[p.3]
That Brothers Bingham, and Thurston be a committee to make
arrangements for the celebration, and that they report in what
manner the day bhall be observed.
March 15,1820.
Voted
That the brethero^of the Mission be a Committee
to sketch by-laws to be adopted and observed by this community.
Several subjects partially discussed, and the meeting adjourned
March 23,1820.
The following by-laws having been under consideration
for some time, were adopted this evenings
the
That Property furnished by the Christian public, either
�[1820]
P*4
in money or other articles of any kind, for the purposes of
the Mission shall be at the disposal of the members jointly
and subject to their vote.
(In P. 6 [of Instructions])
The property acquired by the members jointly or by indi
viduals of the body either by grant, barter, or earnings
shall also be subject to the disposal of the members Jointly.
(In p 6)
The property thus furnished or acquired, either divided
or undivided, shall be devoted to the general purposes of the
mission, according to the tenor of our Instructions from the
A. B. Com. F. M. and according to our own regulations, not
incompatible with those instructions.
(In Page 6)
No member of this mission shall be entitled to use or
allowed to appropriate such property divided or undivided, in
bying [sic], selling, giving, or consuming, etc. in any manner
incompatible with our general Instructions, or contrary to the
voice of a majority of the members.
(In Pages 6 & 7).
Should any member withdraw from the service of the AmerBoard, or abandon the mission, or without material consent
separate himself from the community, or for heresy or middemeanor be cut off from this church, he shall be considered,
of course, as forfeiting all right to the patronage of the
Board, and to the property of this community; - and that the
holy cause may not suffer or be embarrassed by loss of property
In such cases,
r
* if he shall have received a dividend of the
property furnished by the Christian public, or acquired while
under the patronage of the Board, he shall be bound to restore
that dividend to the common stock, to be again at the disposal
of the community.
(In P. 3 and 5.)
Should any member of this Mission persist in violating
�[1820]
P« 5
the regulations of the Prudential Committee, or the rules
adopted by this body, such violation shall be considered as
uncharitable, insubordination to rightful direction, and suf
ficient ground for Christian Discipline.
[p.5]
(In P.5.)
Should it be thought advisable by this body that one or
more of the members should be separate from the rest, in order
more happily or effectually to secure the benevolent object of
our mission, such person, or persons, whether separated at
their own request, by the consent of the mission, or by nomin
ation or ballot, shall be subject to the same general rules,
as to support and labor, and the application of property and
talents, and receive his proper dividend from the common
stock.
No member shall be allowed to make a bargain, to bind
his brethern,^without their consent; but a Com. may be appointed,
with discretionary powers to buy and sell for the community.
March 29,1820.
Brother T. in the Chair.
Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to purchase of
the natives of Owhyhee, such articles as may be thought
desirable and to do what trading is necessary.
Resolved,
That b'rother Chamberlain of our company and
Mr. Honneywell of the Thaddeus be a Committee for this purpose.
Kirooah bay, April 11, 1820.
Voted that it is expedient that a part of our mission
reside at this place.
Voted that Rev. Mr. Thurston and Dr. Holman with their
wives and Thomas Hopoo, and William Tennooe be left at this
place.
�r
[1820]
[p.6]
p. 6
Village of Hanaroora, Woahoo, July 1st,1820.
The branch of the Sandwich Mission established at this
place met at the house of brother Bingham and resolved to send
one of the members to Kirooah in Owhyhee to consult with the
Missionaries at that place as to the expediency of making an
establishment at Atooi and to transact other business.
Brother
Whitney was designated for this purpose.
July 18th, 1820.
<
\
The brethern^met and after looking to God in prayer for
direction passed the following resolutions;
Resolved, That we deem it expedient to comply with the
request of Tamoree and Homehome,.and to take a station at Atooi.
Resolved, That we deem it expedient that brothers Whitney
and Ruggles, with their wives, should shortly proceed thither
end occupy it.
Resolved, That we deem it expedient to comply with the
request of Crymokee, and to send a teacher to Toeigh.
Resolved, That brother Loomis, be designated to proceed
thither as soon as it shall be convenient.
July 22, 1820.
[p.7]
The brethern^met to consider the case of William Tennooe
who by disorderly and wicked conduct had brought reproach upon
the holy c&w&e of Missions.
After effectionately admonishing
the said William Tennooe and hearing from his own mouth his
determination to continue in his present course of sin, the
following resolution was unanimously adooted:
Resolved, That William Tennooe be excommunicated from
this Church.
�[1831]
[p.8]
Monday, March 14th, 1831.
St the request of Mr. Shepard, the brethern <6f the station
at Honolulu met to take Into consideration his duty in reference
to his health; and adopted the following resolution:
Resolved, that while we regret to lose the important
services of Mr. Shepard in the printing department, even for a
little season, still in consideration of the affection of his
lungs, and the apprehension that the trade winds and dust of
Honolulu plains will be unfavorable to his cough, we there
fore recommend, that he feel himself entirely relieved from
the care of the office, and that he seek a more favorable
[p.9]
atmosphere at Lahaina, or Kailua as shall/ appear most desir-
[p.9]
able to himself; and that he simply hold himself at the dis
posal of an alwise providence, and wait the intimation of the
sovereign and adorable will of our gracious Redeemer, who
directs all our affairs in Infinite goodness.
The brethern present and who adopted the above resolution
were the following!
H. Bingham,
E. W. Clark,
G. P. Judd,
Levi Chamberlain.
Friday, March 18th, 1831.
The brethern.of
the station
A
viz: Messrs. Bingham, Clark, Judd, Shepard and Chamberlain met
for the purpose of appointing one or more of their number to
[P.10]
take charge of for the present of the business of/ printing
[p.10]
and other business of the office instead of Mr. Shepard whose
health is such as to require a suspension of his labors in
that department.
Voted that Mr. Clark take the oversight of the printing
and that Dr. Judd take the oversight of the books.
�[1831]
p .8
M
Honolulu, May 18, 1831.
The brethern^of this station viz:
Messrs. Bingham, Clark, Judd, Shepard and Chamberlain together
with Mr. Whitney of the station at Kauai, met to consult as to
the expediency of altering the place and times of the General
Meeting, in consequence of information received from the
Corresponding Secretary, of the intention of the Board to
reenforce this Mission by additional helpers, whose arrival
at the islands may be expected sometime in the course of this
month; and recommended that the meeting be held at this place
instead of Lahaina, and the time be as early in the month of
June as possible.
�
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Title
A name given to the resource
Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes
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Title
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes - Prudential Meetings of the Mission Family - 1819-1820 and 1831
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1819, 1820, 1831
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r
••
- U N P U B L I S H E D Records of a General Meeting of the
Sandwich Islands Mission
Held at
Honolulu, 1823.
CCopied from the original found in the vault
of the iifawaiian Mission Children’s Society,
January, 1942. - M. SchleifJ
�rt 2.
Records of a General Meeting of the
Sandwich islands Mission
Held at Honolulu, 1823.
ClnsertJ Mr.
Mr.
Mr.
Mr.
Mr.
Cp.ll
Thurston
Ellis
Bingham
Richards
Bishop
Dr.
Mr.
Mr.
Mr.
Mr.
Blatchely
Goodrich
Ely
Ruggles
Chamberlain
& Mr. Loomis
At a meeting of the brethren of the mission on Monday
Sept 8th 1823.
Mr. Bingham was chosen moderator and Levi
Chamberlain Secy.
Resolved that it is desirable to hold a prayer meeting
this evening with reference to the important business about
to come before the mission and that at the close of it the
report of the Com. for the satisfactory distribution of
means of support shall be read.
Resolved that there be a meeting tomorrow at 9 o'cl, to
attend to the reading of the report of the Deputation for
explog. Hawaii.
Adjourned
Tuesday Sept 9th.
Being assembled agreeably to the fore
going resolution, & the meeting having been opened by pray
tp.2}
er by Mr Ellis, Mr. Bishop proceeded to the reading of
C/».a3
report of the DeputationAfor exploring Hawaii.
Agreed not to act upon this report nor upon the report
of the Committee for the satisfactory distribution of the
means of support at the meeting.
Meeting for business adjourned to 2 o’clock this afternoon.
�Cl823j
Insert 3
The adjourned meeting having been opened by prayer by
Mr. Goodrich the report of the committee for the satisfact
ory distribution of the means of support was-again read &
accepted for further investigation & consideration.
Motioned
& seconded that the several articles of the report be acted
upon separately.
Discussed the 1st and 2nd article, and passed them
separately.
Adjourned to § after 7 this evening.
Met according to adjournment and discussed & accepted
Zp-3l
the 3 & 4th articles & then adjournment to 9 o ’clockAto
morrow morning.
Wednesday Sept. 10th
Met according to adjournment.
The meeting having been opened by addressing the throne
of grace for divine direction proceeded to the discussion of
the 5th article - after discussing it for some time and not
agreeing, the meeting was adjourned for half an hour - being
assembled again not agreeing to pass it in the original form,
it was motioned & agreed to pass It by for the present &
act upon the remaining articles.
Discussed the remaining art
icles & unanimously accepted them and adjourned to 2 o'clock.
Met according to adjournment.
The 5th article In en
amended form was brought forward & read, and unanimously passed.
I*Hi
Proceeded to the choice by balot CsicJ of an ^igent to
superintend the depository.
chosen.
Levi Chamberlain was unanimously
�ri825l
Insert 4
Motioned that Hawaii be occupied by establishing one or
b
more stations thereon as soon as circumstances will admit &
passed.
Motioned that 4 persons be employed to occupy Hawaii.
Unanimously passed.
Motioned that Kalrua & Waiakea be the
places to be occupied.
Unanimously passed.
Motioned that the persons be chosen by balot CsicJ.
Elected Rev. Asa Thurston, Rev. Artemas Bishop, Mr. Joseph
Goodrich, Mr. James Ely to be the persons to occupy the two
stations.
Adjourned until immediately after tea.
Met according to
adjournment.
Voted to reconsider the choice of Mr. Ely as one of the
persons Ato occupy Hawaii owing to Mr. E. CsicJ decided pre
ference for Tauwal & his dissatisfaction with his election
for Hawaii.
Resolved to proceed to the choice of a fourth person for
Hawaii to be permanently settled there or remove ss the ad
vantages of the mission at large may require.
After much
conversation upon the foregoing motion & not coming to any
thing decisive on the subject voted to adjourn to 6 o ’clock
tomorrow morning.
Thursday Sept 11th.
Met according to adjournment the
meeting having been opened by prayer proceeded to the dis
cussion of the subject CofU last evening, viz. the choice of
a fourth person.
Voted that the offer of br. Ruggles to be
�(18231
Insert 5
stationed at Walakea with an ordained missionary for one
year & a half or two years as hia health may admit or cir
cumstances require to assist in the settlement of that stat
ion be accepted.
Adjourned to 9 o'clock. A
Cp.6j
^
Met according to adjournment.
Conversed upon the propriety of the doctors Csl<0 comply
ing with the request of the king to go up to Maui to render
medical aid to the kings Csic} mother now ill.
Voted that
Dr. Blatchely be recommended to comply with the request upon
condition of his not being absent from this place many days.
Motioned that the questions concerning the location of
Hawaii be postponed for the present & passed.
Adjourned.
Friday Sept 12.
At an adjourned meeting after looking to
the throne of grace for divine guidance the following resolu
tions were discussed & unanimously passed.
It shall be deemed proper, that each family should enjoy
Clnsert a suitable dwelling house, or that which shall be equal to it in anv
other
suitable accommodations for cooking & washing - & that each
handwrit ingest at ion should be accommodated with a bell or laome substitute
for calling together a school or a congregation, with a spy
glass, a quadrant and navigator, a timepiece, - An encyclo
pedia or some valuable dictionary of the arts, a chest of
tools, - A universal gazeteer and atlas - and Scott's Bible Provided that in the order of procuring their order
their comparative necessity shall be duly considered.
-
�CL8231
Insert 6
Also that each station shall
at liberty to decide
for itself the expediency of living in separate family's &
cooking & washing at separate fires - and to make any regula
tion for itself, not repugnant to our general rules.
Voted that Mrs. Ruggles be allowed to draw 14 dollars
from the Depository in consequence of the donation from her
brother designed for herself being paid into the Treasury of
the Board.
CEnd of insert^
Voted that a committee of three be appointed to prepare
and bring forward business to be acted upon at future meet
ings.
Made choice by nomination of Mr. Bingham, Mr. Thurston, &
Mr. Loomis. Adjourned.
Sept. 18th.
Voted that the station at Jionoruru be allow
ed to proceed In the building of the stone house across the
way contiguous to the printing house.
Monday Septr. 29.
Met to consult what measures it Is
best to adopt in regard to Hawaii.
by Mr
Stewart.
Meeting opened by prayer
Voted that brother Thurston be requested to
make choice of one of the two stations to be occupied on
Hawaii.
Mr. T. having signified his willingness to be stat
ioned at K fKallual consequently
passed the following C O
voted that with the consent & full approbation of Mr. Thurston
Cp.Jl
he be appointed to occupy Kalrua for^the ensuing year with
a view to the reconsidering of his location after that term
�(18250
Insert 7
if he shall request it.
Adjourned till 2 o'ck.
Met according to adjournment.
Meeting opened by prayer
by Mr. Thurston..... ..................
A motion to reconsider the vote in the mission resolved
to occupy two stations on Hawaii was presented & negatived.
Ad journed...................... .
Met Wednesday evening Oct. 1st......
Meeting opened by prayer by Mr. Goodrich.
Voted that the
brethren designated for Hawaii constitute a committee to de
vise a plan for their own distribution.
Adjourned to 9 o ’ck tomorrow.
£Oct. 2, 1823}
Met according to adjournment.
Meeting opened by prayer by Mr. Bishop.
The brethren
designated for Hewall not agreeing as to the manner to distrlLP.^
buting their number,^therefore motioned that the mission pro
ceed to assign Mr. Bishop & Mr. Goodrich to tfteli- respective
stations by balot Cslc}
The balot Csicl being taken Mr. Bishop was assigned to
Walakea and Mr. Goodrich to Kairua.
Voted that Dr. Blatchely be requested & allowed to make
his choice of a station either at Kairua, Lahaina, or Honoruru, where he shall suppose he can best subserve the Inter
ests of the mission for the present year.
Voted that Mr. Ely be allowed to choose his station.
Adjourned to 2 o'clock.
�fl825j
Inaert 8
Voted that the misaion approve of Mr. Ely1a choice of
Tauwai.
Voted/ that Dr. Blatchely be requested to give an explan'ation pt wh#t he^has st^ggested as to unfavorable stories.
Voted that Mr. Bishop be this committee.
Adjourned.
Met Friday Oct. 3.
ttee of ways & means.
Attended to the report of the commi
Voted to accept the report.
Adjourned.
Met Thursday evening Octr. 9th
Voted to reconsider the motion respecting the location of
Messrs. Bishop & Goodrich.
adjourned to 9 o ‘clk tomorrow morng.
Friday Oct. 10th.
Met according to adjournment.
Voted to assign Mr. Bishop
to Kairua.
Voted that the thanks of the mission be presented to
brother & sister Ruggles for the voluntary & liberal offer of
their services to assist in planting a station at Walakea,
begging to decline accepting the offer on account of our intp.iO
ability to comply ^with the terms of it.
Voted, that should Br & Sister Ruggles feel at liberty
to offer their services towards planting a station at Waiakea in company with Br. Goodrich, receiving such aid as may
be offered from this or from any other station, & as the
�r
0.8251
Insert 9
brethren may think adequate to the establishment of that
station, - that offer would be gratefully accepted.
Voted that Mr. Goodrich be assigned to Welakea.
Br. Ruggles having offered hlnself on satisfactory terms
to assist In planting a station on Hawaii:- Voted that he be
appointed to lalakea for a year & an half or two years in
connexion with Mr. G. as his health may admit or circumstances
#
require.
Voted that we approve of a contemplated exchange of
Cf>• '"O
stations for a few months between Mr. Bishop & Mr. Ely. cp-'O
Met Oct. 15. evening.
The report of the Deputation for Exploring Hawaii was
again presented and accepted.
Voted that a Committee of two be appointed to receive the
report, minutes & journals of the deputation appointed for ex
ploring Hawaii, & from those prepare a narrative of the tour,
embodying the best information on the subjects of their inquiry
with a view to its being frwd. to the London Miss. Soc. & to
the American Board. Voted that Mr. Ellis & Mr. Bingham be this committee.
Adjourned.
�Report of the Committee for the Distribution
Of the Meens of Supoort
Cl823J
The committee appointed to recommend some method for
the satisfactory distribution of donations & other means of
support, beg leave to recommend the following resolutions,
founded on standing rules of the Board, "that at every miss
ionary station, the earnings of the members of the mission,
end all moneys & atlcles Cslcl of different kinds, received
by them or any of them directly from the funds of the Board,
or In way of donation, shall, constitute common stock, from
which they shall severally draw their support, in such pro
portion & \inder such regulations, as may from time to be
Csicl
found desirable & be approved by the Board or Pruden
tial Committee.
All the members of the mission shall feel it an indispensable
duty to practice the strictest economy.”
Res.1st
That a depository be established at this place, to which
shall belong all the earnings of the different members of the
mission, all the supplies sent out by the Board, and all the
undivided, & common property of the Mission.
Res.2ndly
That an agent shall be appointed, whose duty It shall
be to superintend the depository, to procure supplies fdf*
it & distribute said supplies, according to rules to be here
after adopted.
Res.3dly
That it be the duty of each station to transmit to the
agent a quarterly account of the state of its supplies, of
its wants & its prospects.
This quarterly report shall em
brace in sepparate CsicJ Items, an account of expenses for
H
�ri825l
Insert 11
building, and repairing houses, making fences, labour not em-
Lp,zj
Cp.2]
braced in the foregoing particulars, fuel, purchases from
ships, fresh meat of every kind, vegitables Cslc3, and mis
cellaneous articles.
In the seme report shall be embraced a
list of all necessary articles of support received from the
natives & from foreign visitants designed for the use of the
station.
Res.4thly
That whenever supplies shall be received at any station,
unless such supplies are nescessary Csic3 for the immediate
use of the station, an account shall be transmitted to the
general agent, and the supplies shall be considered as belong
ing to the depository, although they may not be removed, un
less directed by the agent for the necessary supply of other
stations.
Res.5thly
That all donations made to individuals shall be enjoyed
by the individual for whom they were designed, unless by his
grossed own choice they shall be placed in the depository; provided
out on
origin- however that all necessary articles of provision shall be
al}
considered as belonging to common stock. It shall moreover
be the duty of every individual receiving presents in connect
ion with the quarterly report of his station, to transmit a
general inventory of such things as can be regarded as art
icles of support: and no individual shall draw on the depos
itory for such or similar articles as he shall have received
in private donation, without giving an account of what he
out
has received. C^nd of crossed/paragraph}
^Insert!
Resolved 5th that all donations made to individuals of
the mission in money, clothing, merchandize, furniture and
�Cl823]
Insert 12
utensils, necessary articles of provision, comforts & luxur
ies, may be enjoyed by the individuals for whom they were
specially designed and applied to any purpose, not incompat
ible with the rules and instructions of the Boerd or Pru.
Com. and the members thus receiving donations shall give our
general agent such an account of them as may be needful to
guide him In the due distribution of the general means of
support - making a distinction between articles Intended as
general support, & mere tokens of personal regard,
p ^ d of
insert]
Res. 6thly
That it shall be the duty of the general agent after re
ceiving the quarterly reports of the several stations, to
send immediate supplies sofar as he is able, and at all other
times it shall be his duty as far as possible to anticipate
the wants of the several stations, so as to preclude the dan
ger of eny stations being left destitute.A
Res.7thly
That whenever supplies are received from America or
are purchased here, of whatever kind they may be, the agent
shall as soon as he is able, make a general & equable divi
sion of the articles, having respect to the supplies pre
viously sent to the different stations, to the wants of the
stations & to the means which they may have for supplying
themselves.
In all cases where the agent is unable to make
such a division with satisfaction to himself, it shall be
his duty to inform the station what Is in the depository:
and in addition to this it shall be his duty to transmit
annually to all the stations a particular account of the de
pository also an account of the general expenses of the dlf-
�C1885J
Insert 15
ferent stations and of the pecuniary state of the whole misI
slon.
Res.8thly
That In fixing th6 price on the articles sent to the
different stations, no reference shall be had to the estimate
made in America, hut to the cost or value here.
Res.9thly
Each station shall have the privilege of purchasing its
own supplies udien destitute, and it shall be the duty of each
station to improve all highly favourable opportunities to
procure supplies for the mission, provided however that when
ever the business can be rafered to the general agent it
shall be done, and no drafts shall be made on the Board ex
cept by the agent unless
It is absolutely necessary and when
ever orders are given by others the agent shall be immediately
informed thereof.-—
�
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Title
A name given to the resource
Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes
Dublin Core
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Title
A name given to the resource
Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes - 1823
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
1823
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- U N P U B L I S H E D -
"Minutes of General
Meetings of the Mission”
1. May 16 - June 20, 1825, [Honolulu]
2. Sept. 23 - Oct. 20, 1826,[Kailua]
3 . Apr. 23 - May 3, 1828, [Honolulu]
Copied from Original found in Archives,
Hawaiian Board.
Nov. 1909.
�Honolulu M a y 16th 1825.
Minutes of a General Meeting
Several brethr en fro m the windward stations b e ing prov
identially together at Honolulu it was thought desirable
that their convention should be improved for the purposes of
a General Meeting.
Accordingly, having assembled on Monday
evening May 16 1825 at the Mission house, present Rev. Messrs.
Bingham, Stewart & Bishop, Messrs. Ely, Loomis & Chamberlain
and Dr. B1sfcchely, they proceeded to organize the mee t i n g by
choosing a Moder ator & Scribe.
Ballots having been taken
the choice was declared as follows
Rev. H. Bingham, Moderator
Levi Chamberlain, Scribe.
The Moderator having taken the chair the meeting proceeded
to the appointment of a committee of arrangements consisting
of Messrs. C. S. Stewart, A. Bishop & Levi Chamberlain.
The evening being nearly spent adjourned to tomorrow
2 o’
ck P. M. Tuesday May 17.
Tuesday May 17.
Being assembled according to adjournment
the Committee of arrangements proposed the following
question for consideration.
"Is uniformity in the Hawaiian
language expedient? and what are the best means
it."
of securing
Upon this q uestion the following order was taken.
Resolved 1st.
That it is expedient in transferring words
8c prop e r names f r o m other languages to the Hawaiian to
preserve their identity as far as the genius of the language
�p. 11
[1825]
will admit.
Resolved 2nd.
That a committee of three be appointed to
correspond w i t h the different members of the Mission as to
the expediency of establishing an uniformity in the orthog
raphy of the Hawaiian language, and to submit to this meeting
for their consideration propositions embracing the diffi
culties now felt in spelling the language.
For this com
mittee made choice of
Messrs. H. Bin g h a m
C. S. Stewart
Levi Chamberlain
Adjourned to 2 o'ck tomorrow, Wednesday afternoon.
Wednesday May 18th.
Met according to adjournment, and u p o n
the inquiry as to the expediency of p u b l i s h i n g a Scripture
tract and C a t e c h i s m it was
Resolved that a Scripture tract be published as soon as
p r a c t i c a b l e , The resolve being unanimously accepted it was
Voted that Brother B i n g h a m be requested to prepare one for
the press.
Resolved further that C a techism also be prepared end
p u blished as soon as practicable.
Adjourned to Thursday 19 9 o'ck A. M.
Thursday May 19.
Having assembled according to adjournment
the subject of preparing a C a t echism was introduced and the
following resolutions adopted.
�[1825]
P« 12
1st. Re s o l v e d that the Improved doctrinal Tahitian
Ca techism be considered the basis of the one now
to be prepared.
2.
Re s o l v e d that a committee of three be appointed
to prepare the Cat e c h i s m for the press.
The Rev. Mr, Bingham
Mr. Bishop &
Mr. Loomis were first chosen and afterward Mr.
Ely was added to their number.
The subject of educating h e athen children, in the
families of the mission, h a v i n g excited a good deal of
interest among our number, It was ponsld;^iped of sufficient
importance to receive the attention of the meeting; and
accordingly the following resolution was introduced and
accepted*
R e s o l v e d that a Committee of three be appointed
to report upo n the expediency of receiving and
educating h e a t h e n children in the different families
of the m i s s i o n in compliance wit h the wishes and
appropriations of benevolent Individuals in America.
Made choice for this Committee of the Rev. Messrs.
Bingham, Stewart & Bishop.
Adjourned to tomorrow m o rnlgg 9 o ’ck.
Fr iday May 20th.
Met according to adjournment, and the
m e etin g h a v i n g been opened with prayer by Mr. Ely, the
subject of inducting members into the church was proposed,
and the following resolution was adopted.
�r
[1825]
P. 13
Resolved that a Committee be appointed to Investi
gate the subject, and report on the method, of
Inducting Into the church converts to Christianity.
Voted that this Committee consist of three persons, and
made choice of the Messrs. Bingham, Thurston & Richards.
[p.6]
Upon the question, w h ich night is it most expedient and
proper to keep in connexion wi t h the sabbath —
Sabbath or
Saturday night? no vote was taken, but it seemed to be the
general opinion of the brethren, that Sabbath evening should
be regarded as ho l y time, &, that in their instruction to
the natives they should recommend the observance of Sabbath
in preference to Saturday evening, but that in their own
practice, they refrain as mu c h as possible from secular
employments on Saturday evening.
Adjournment to Monday morning at 9 o'ck.
Monday May 23.
Met in the afternoon various avocations
preventing our assembling in the morning.
The Committee to w h o m was referred the subject of edu
cating h e a then children in the families of the Missionaries
p r esented the following report whi c h was read and accepted.
The Committee to w h o m was referred the subject
[p.7]
of educating h e a then children in the families of the
missionaries beg leave to submit the following report.
During the first years of the operations of the Mission
about twenty children were received and instructed in the
mi s sion families.
The expenses of which, were, for the most
part defrayed by the liberal contributions of foreigners at
�[1825]
p. 14
the islands, and b y the special patronage of King Taurauarii,
H u ring his residence at Tauai his own native island* [ A few
of that number have since bee n employed as useful teachers,
some have died, some deserted, some have been dismissed for
insubordination, and one remains who first received the
name of Kenry Martyn, and was p l a c e d on the foundation of a
Society of young ladies at Nantucket, but has since by their
m
request been called Abner Morse.
No native female child remained long under the Missionary
roof, or gave evidence of bfeing benefltted, materially, more
than others who merely attended school: except, perhaps,
Delia, who became the wife of Hopu.
During the three last years of the operations of the
Mission, there have been on an average about 15 boys, and
occasionally, 2 or 3 girls conneoted w i t h the Mission fam
ilies, rendering assistance, and receiving the rudiments of
a Christian education; but in a very few instances has there
be e n sufficient encouragement of their steady perseverance,
to place them on the funds contributed by particular indi
viduals or societies, for children to bear the names which
the donors have designated.
[sic]
During the existance of the Mission, partial provision
A
has been made in America for about 35 children, to be
supported and educated in the families of this Mission; and
although this m e t h o d of benefitting the heathen is in many
cases admirably suited to promote the design of Christian
Missions; and although it m a y be desirable that the experi
ment should be more fully tried at the Sandwich Islands; and
�[1825]
p. 15
that any member who should choose to pursue It, should be
at liberty to appropriate to that object such donations as
have been, or ma y be particularly designated for it; yet the
Committee cannot, in the present state of the nation, recom
mend, to any considerable extent, the m e thod of prosecuting
the wor k of the Mission: but they w o uld propose that the
efforts of both male and female members of the Mission to
enlighten the nation, should, in general, p r o ceed on a much
larger scale, involving less comparative expense than the
pla n of boarding schools.
O n these points the Mission are supported by the general
sentiments of the missionaries in the South sea Islands, and
by the deliberate advice of Messrs. Tyreman, Bennet & Ellis.
In coming to this conclusion the committee have been
influenced p a rticularly by the following considerations.
1.
The very great expense which boarding schools In this
country w o uld Involve, compared w i t h that of Ceylon, and
compared with the expense of the common schools in this
nation.
2.
The unwillingness of the children, in general, to submit
to the restraints of a civilized Christian family long enough
to complete their education, so as to answer the reasonable
expectations of their benefactos.
3.
The superior claims of many chiefs to m i s sionary atten
tion, and of other promising adults, who could not be em
braced in a boarding school, and who ought hevertheless to
be well instructed w i t h a view to their aid In the work of
the mission
as teachers.
�[1825]
4,
P. 16
The great demand of the whole n a tion for more widely
diffused instructions, and the more publicly extensive
preaching of the Gospel.
5.
The exposure of our own offspring to the influence of
the undesirable habits of native children to be trained up
with them.
The Committee wou l d therefore recommend, thet the
benevolent individuals & societies who have ha d it in their
hearts to do go o d in this way, and who with great kindness
and w a r m solicitude have presented, and may wish to present
their offerings to the L o r d for this particular purpose, be,
made early acquainted wit h the present views of the mission
on the subject; and w i t h the special thanks of the mission
for their liberality, be, with a very few exceptions, re
spectfully requested to transfer or direct their charity to
the general support of this mission, or to the general
objects or to any particular object embraced by the Board.
Adjour ned to 2 o'clock tomorrow P. M.
Tuesday May 24th.
Met according to adjournment and the
m e e tin g having been opened wit h prayer b y the Scribe the
following resolution was p r esented and accepted.
Re s o l v e d that in view of the importance of preparing
a competent number of school masters, and assistant teachers
among the people, promising youths shall be selected, at the
different stations, and regularly educated in schools and
classes for that purpose, so far as it shall be found p r a c
ticable by actual experiment.
Upon the question "Is it expedient to retain the
�[1825]
p. 17
station at Waiakea with only the present means the Mission
possess of mainta ining it, the following resolution was
adopted.
Resolved that the Mission decidedly approve of the
maintenance of the station at Waiakea at least till Mr.
Goodrich shall feel it desirable to leave it for a season.
Adjourned to Thursday at 2 o ’elk P. M.
Thursday May 26.
Met according to adjournment.
The m e eting having been opened with prayer by Mr. B i n g
h a m the following resolution was read and adopted.
R e solved that in view of the information fro m the
corresponding Secretary respecting the embarrassed state
of the funds of the Board we will renew our engagement to
practice the strictest economy in the use of our means of
support; that we will study to diminish the expenses of the
Mission, by inventing and adopting new methods of economy
in the management of our affairs, and by scrupulously
refraining fro m incurring the least item of expense to the
Board not necessary for our health and usefulness; and that
we will, moreover, endeavor to cherish in ourselves the
feelings of more entire dependance on God for the daily
supply of our wants; and while we look to our patrons and
friends in America, for the continued means of imparting
the knowledge of salvation to the perishing h e a then around,
we will endeavor, gratefully and habitually, to praise the
Author of every mercy for his past ki n d and providential
care over all the members, and all the plans and objects
�[1825]
d
.
18
of the Mission.
Adjourned.
Monday June 20th.
Met to attend to unfinished business,
present Messrs. Binghaip, Bishop & Ely, Dr. Blatchely, Mr.
Loomis & Levi Chamberlain.
The Committee appointed to correspond wi t h the different
members of the M i s sion respecting the expediency of an
uniformity in the orthography of the Hawaiian language sub
m i t t e d the following view of the subject which was approved.
The Committee appointed to correspond with the different
members of the Mission respecting the expediency of an
u n iformity in the orthography of the Hawaiian language beg
leave to submit the following propositions embracing as they
conceive the difficulties n o w felt in spelling the language*
An alphabet waa adopted more than three years ago; which
was intended to include all the letters necessary to express
the different sounds in the language, and no more.
It has been found h o w e v e r fro m careful attention, that
b & d, though they are u s e d by a few natives in a certain
class of words, may always wi t h strict propriety be supplied
by others, w h ich better represent the sound most frequently
h eard in the pronunciation of those words.
v Sc w are use d interchangably.
K Sc t, 1 & r,
Some individuals use the k
in the same w o r d in which t is more uniformly employed by
the
others. The same difference exists in reference to^other
four letters.
In order to effect an uniformity either the k or the t,
the 1 or the r, the v or the w must be excluded from the
�[1825]
p. 19
Hawaiian Alphabet, or the orthography of each word in the
language, in w h ich any one of these letters occurs, must be
settled by discussion.
The propositions which the Committee wish to submit to
the brethren for their consideration and upon w h ich they
request their decision after they shall have duly weighed
the difficulties of the subject are the following.
1st.
Shall b and d be retained in the Hawaiian
Alphabet, or shall they be regarded as foreign letters, and
be only us e d in spelling foreign words?
2.
Shall k be excluded or shall t, or shall both
be retained?
3.
Shall 1 be excluded or shall r, or shall both
be retained?
4*
Shall v be excluded or shall w, or shall b o t h
be retained?
In the opinion of this Committee all the sounds in the
Hawaiian alphabet except perhaps b & d are in good use nor
do they think that the language can be fully represented
without them, though it may possibly be found expedient to
reject one class of the interchangable letters.
Very few however, if any of the natives, seem to dis
tinguish the difference b e tween the sound of k & t, 1 & r,
or v 3c w.
Many words at present, in w h ich r occurs, are,
b y many, uniformly p r onounced as if w r itten wit h 1; and
the same is true wit h respect to the k and t, & the v & w.
It seems h i ghly desirable that a m e thod of spelling should
be adopted, that shall remove the difficulties now felt,
�p. 20
[1825]
at least, so far as the writing of the language is concerned.
The inconvenience attending the present method of spelling
is obvious, fie is felt by every member of the Mission.
Honoruru m a y be w r i tten four different ways, and is con
stantly written two ways.
Kaavaroa ma y be written eight,
and is actually written three.
Kealakekua may be written
sixteen, and is uniformly wtitten three or four, and every
word in the language, in whi c h letters occur that are used
interchangably, may, by permutation, be written nearly as
many different ways as the square of the whole number of
Interchangable letters in the word.
The difficulty hence
arising does not terminate w i t h the limits of the Sendwich
Islands.
Communications are forwarded to America with this
difference mark e d u p o n them; and the Boa r d in their p u b l i
cations have adopted a method of spelling w i dely different
f ro m any of those now in use by the missionaries.
An
u niformity on the part of the Mission might possibly have a
tendency to produce on the part of the Board the adoption
of our method.
There are indeed objections to settling the orthography
by casting out of the Alphabet any one of the letters which
have been inserted, though it is difficult to conceive how
an uni formity amongst ourselves can be effected without it.
T
Tabu & lido which afford an instance of the use of b & d are
T&bt'
becanne. a
in very common use or good acceptance^of the best English
Dictionaries.
R is exclusively used at the Society Islands
& New Zeland [sic], b and d are bot h in use there.
The
books published by the Missionaries of the South sea Islands
/
n
.
�p. 21
[1825]
will doubtless be Introduced into these islands; and the
similarity of the languages of the different tribes inhab
iting the isles of the vast Pacific will occasion a circu
lation of the books p u b lished at each of the groups among
the rest.
It is therefore not only desirable that there
should be an uniformity among the Missionaries of the Sand
wich Islands but among all the Missionaries throughout all
the group of isles in which the Polynesian language Is
spoken.
In settling the orthography of this language then
these considerations should not be overlooked.
Several books have been p u b lished by the M i ssion which
include all the letters In question, & the natives are in
constant practice of using them all in their various corres
pondence wi t h one another, and with the Missionaries; and
they would not easily be brought off fr o m the habit, or soon
reconciled to the disuse of any of them.
Many words, proper
names & phrases spelt with b o t h the classes of letters have
been transmitted In various communication both to England
and America, and have been or m a y be made public; among
w h i c h m a y be men t i o n e d the Journal of the Tour of Hawaii
containing the names of all the important places on that
island and many interesting expression of the natives in
their own language, all written according to Mr. E l l i s ’
meth o d of spelling the language.
It will soon be necessary to p u blish a new edition of
the hymns, a revision of which must take place if a different
orthography is adopted.
Of these one half at least was
furnished by Mr. Ellis and retains his spelling.
Finally
�[1625]
p. 22
Mr. Ellis whose opinion u p o n this subject we regard as
entitled to p a r ticular deference would not be in favor of
discarding any of the letters n o w in use, unless possibly it
might be b & d.
A n d should he return, w o u l d probably print
books independent of us; & therefore noit conform to our
m e t h o d of spelling, should we fix up o n one at varience with
his own.
The Committee have endeavored to state some of the inconveniencies of the present meth o d of irregular spelling, and
to represent some of the difficulties which see m to stand in
the way of an uniformity.
These propositions & considerations
are respectfully submitted.
H. Bingham, Moderator
Levi Chamberlain Secy.
�
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes
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1825
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Text
- U N P U B L I S H E D -
"Minutes of General
Meetings of the Mission”
1. May 16 - June 20, 1825, [Honolulu]
2. Sept. 23 - Oct. 20, 1826,[Kailua]
3 . Apr. 23 - May 3, 1828, [Honolulu]
Copied from Original found in Archives,
Hawaiian Board.
Nov. 1909.
�[Kailua, Sept. 23-0ct. 20, 1826]
Proceedings of a General Meeting of the Sandwich Island
Mission held at Kailua Sept. 23rd 1826.
Present the Rev. Messrs.
Bingham, Thurston, Richards, Bishop & Ely, Mr. Joseph Goodrich
and Levi Chamberlain.
After prayer by the Rev. Mr. Bingham, the brethren pro
ceeded to organize the meeting by choosing a Moderator and
Scribe.
The Rev. Asa Thurston, Moderator
Levi Chamberlain, Scribe.
On motion that a committee of overtures be appointed,
voted that a Committee of three be chosen to arrange & present
to the meeting subjects for their consideration & future
deliberations.
Made choice of the Rev. Messrs. Bingham, Richards & Ely.
The Committee having had leave to retire, returned &
presented the following resolutions which were unanimously
adopted.
1.
Resolved that we consider our services as missionaries
pledged to the Church for life, and that we consider it irreg
ular for any member of the mission to take any steps towards
a removal from his post, until he have the approbation of his
brethren.
2.
Resolved that in order to justify the Mission in
approving of the return of any member from this field to the
Board they shall be able to assign reasons for it which in
their opinion will be satisfactory to the American Board & the
candid Christian public.
�11826]
p. 24
The following letter from Dr. Blatchely was read.
Honolulu, Oahu, Sep. 11 1826.
Dear Brethren,
It is now more than a year since I became
apprehensive from the state of my health that it would not be
safe for me to remain in this climate a great while longer.
I
have since been quite convinced of the fact, and continue to be
daily worried of the danger of deferring my departure for higher
latitudes.
Was it not for the desire to continue to discharge
the duty for which I came hither towards those who are more
particularly needing medical advice at the present time, I
should without delay consider it expedient to improve a good
opportunity that now exists to embark for the U. S. A.
You are doubltess aware of the delicacy of that
trying situation in which a decision of this nature in ones
own case so reverts back upon himself, as to depend chiefly
upon the expression of his own opinion.
Mr. Loomis' case was the third respecting which I
have been called upon to give my opinion respecting others; and
I now give it respecting myself and ask for your united consid
eration & opinion respecting the propriety or necessity and the
time of my going. —
Were I to go this season and by the present opportun
ity Kalalmoku would need operating upon just before my embark
ation, and when he would need it again the Peacock or Blossom
would probably be here.
The next operation he might need
would not be needed probably under seven months from this time
or nearly as soon we will hope that another physician will arrive
�[1826]
from America*.
p« 25
For Mrs* Thurston I do not think I should be
able to do more than others in the Mission could do to balance
the hazard to my self of remaining here many months longer*
As to Mr* Loomis, if he goes to the U. S. A. he will doubtless
go soon and I shall not be needed here for him.
Others may
need a Physician, but you will recollect that my own health is
now exceedingly poor, my constitution much impaired by the
climate and when brought low I have no physician to administer
to me, that I have a companion whom I hope never to leave in
such a place as this.
The uncertainty of an opportunity of a passage next
spring makes me fear to delay, believing to spend another warm
season at the islands will be exceeding dangerous.
Yours respectfully
Abm. Blatchely.
P. S.
If I knew that I should live noflonger for going than by
staying here, I should still in my present state of health
consider it my duty to go on Mrs. B.’s account.
Upon the proposition, what order shall the mission take
respecting Dr. Blatchely's communication, after considerable
discussion of the subject and much consideration the following
vote was passed:
Voted that we adviee Dr. Blatchely to delay his sailing
for the United Stdtes of America till some future opportunity
and that the following letter be forwarded to him immediately.
Kailua, Sept. 23rd 1826.
Dear Brother Blatchely,
We have the pleasure to inform you that the members
�[1826]
p. 26
of the mission first assembled at this place this morning for
the transaction of business.
We took the earliest opportunity
therefore afforded us to consider the application made to us by
you and handed to the meetihg by Mr. Chamberlain.
The subject
has occupied our attention ihe greater part of the day and as
a vessel is to sail this evening to Lahaina we take the earliest
opportunity to make our reply.
In deliberating upon a subject of a nature so deli
cate and yet so Important not only to ourselves but also to
the interests of our patrons and the cause of missions in
general, as well as to yourself and Mrs. Blatchely in particular,
we trust we have brought our minds to the subject entirely
divested of personal feeling, and deeply desirous of discharging
our^duty to yourself and us and at the same time of satisfying
the minds of the Christian public with the reasons of your
return to your native land. -And here it is not improper for us to express the
satisfaction which we feel in acknowledging your medical ser
vices to us as a mission family during the three and a half
years past.
We trust that we are not insensible of the kind
ness and prompt attention manifested by you in the capacity of
physician to those of our number who have been afflicted with
sickness since your embarkation at New Haven for these islands.
It is our prayer to the God of all mercies that you may meet
with a gracious reward, not only in this life with many and
happy days enlivened and cheered by the smiles of His counten
ance, but also with a crown of immortality in the end. —
Your dear companion also shares in our fraternal
�r
[1826]
confidence and love.
p. 27
We regard her as a dear slater In Christ,
to whom we are all abound by the tenderest ties of affection,
t
and from whom, (if the event should become necessary) 'we shall
part with the liveliest emotions of regret and sorrow.
We shall
not cease to hope and pray for the fullest restoration of her
health, & for a long and prosperous course of usefulness whereever her lot may be cast.
These are the feelings, dear Sir, and these are the
predominent sentiments of our minds with which we have taken up
the consideration of the subject of your letter.
As far as
the facts relative to your case have been developed before us,
[p.25]
we have come to the unanimous
opinion "that it would be better
to defer your departure from these islands for the present.”.
In expressing this opinion we have kept fully In sight the
delicate state of your health as well as the desirableness
that every proper measure should be taken for its restoration.
But we do not despair as yet of a restoration at these islands;
at least, if such measures be taken as appear to be practicable,
of the return of such a comfortable state of health as will
enable you to dwell with us another year, or If possible until
the arrival of another physician from America. —
In giving this
opinion we also pledge ourselves to use such means as are prac
ticable to render your situation more comforatble and healthy.
Should you be disposed to tarry a while longer with us and make
the proposed experiment, we hope to feel ourselves ready at any
time hereafter when It shall become expedient for your return
to give our entire approbation of the measure to our patrons in
America, and recommend you to their favor and to the fellowship
�[1826]
p. 28
of the churches.
But on the other hand, if with the enfeebled health
of many members of the mission, as well as the condition of
Kalaimoku before you, you shall still deem it necessary to
depart immediately for your native land, and that upon your own
responsibility, we here assure you that we will put no imped
iments in your way, to prevent a favorable reception from the
Board or the Christian public. —
strate
We will not only not remon
upon the step, but we will further give to the Board
in full such reasons for your departure as we have In our
possession.
Signed in behalf of the brethren
of the S. I. Mission
A.Thurston, Moderator.
Adjourned to Monday morning 9 o’clk.
Monday Sept. 25.
Met according to adjournment, prayer by Mr.
Richards.
The meeting having been opened the following system of
rules for the regulation of business at this and at future
general meetings of the Sandwich Island Mission was unanimously
adopted. —
1st. Resolved.
When the members assembled for the general meeting of the
Mission are ready to attend to business the old moderator or If
absent the missionary at whose house they are convened shall
call them to order, call for, receive and count the ballots for
a Moderator & declare the person chosen.
�r
[1826]
2nd.
p. 29
The moderator shall take the chair and call for the
ballots for a Scribe.
3.
The meeting shall then be opened by prayer by the moder
ator, and daily opened and closed during the Sessions by him or
some person at his request.
[p.27]
4.
It shall be the duty of the Scribe to take minutes of the
proceedings of the meetings, to ready them when called for by
the meeting, to record them for preservation; and during the
interval between one general meeting and another, he shall, at
the request of any two members, receive the votes of the members
on any subject they may deem necessary to be decided before a
general meeting can be conveniently assembled.
5*
All elections shall be by ballot.
6.
As soon as the meeting is organized and opened, a committee
of overtures shall be chosen to prepare business for the meeting.
7.
If any member shall be tardy at an adjourned meeting the
moderator shall be at liberty to call for the reason of his
delay.
8.
The general practice, in deliberative bodies of addressing
the moderator, shall be observed, but the moderator may address
the meeting on the merits of any question.
9*
Every motion except for adjournment shall be reduced to
writing, if the moderator or any two members require it.
10*
When a question is under debate no motion shall be made
except for amendment —
or the previous question —
—
The previous question is shall the main
or for adjournment.
to postpone
question now be put.
Ip.28]
11,
No motion except for reconsideration shall be acted upon
�[1826]
p. 30
\
until seconded.
A communication was read from Mr. Loomis, stating his inabil
ity to superintend the printing business; and submitting an
inquiry, whether it will not be for the interest of the mission,
under existing circumstances, that he should make a voyage to the
United States for the double purpose of benefitting his health,
and of correcting the proof sheets of such publications as may be
thought expedient to print immediately in the Hawaiian language.
This letter of Mr. Loomis was accompanied by the following
from Dr. Blatchely.
(Copy)
Honolulu, Oahu, Sept. 11 1826.
Dear Sir,
I have always considered your professional services, while
the only printer In the field as an Indispensable branch of the
operations of this mission.
And I have for a considerable length of time anticipated
with no small degree of solicitude what has already taken place;
viz. a suspension of your labors in consequence of ill health.
For several months after the first appearance of this I watched
you in silence without communicating to you my opinion, that I
might the more correctly judge of your symptoms and the progress
of disease upon you while unaffected by any apprehensions of your
[p.29]
own.
And since the state of your health has become a source of
anxiety to yourself and subject of conversation with others, I
am no less confirmed in the opinion which I expressed concerning
it in a letter to the corresponding Secretary seven weeks ago,
that you would never be able here even to superintend the printing
L
�[1826]
p. 31
of one of the Gospels,
Respecting your contemplated removal to Waiakea, It may
perhaps refresh you to reside there a season free from care, but
I have little or no confidence in its restoring you so completely
as to supercede the necessity and advantage of some other measure.
Should you go soon to the United States your health, in my
opinion, might be quite restored.
Yours respectfully,
Abraham Blatchely
Mr. E. Loomis.
Upon the subject of Mr. Loomis communication the following
order was taken.
In consideration of the feeble and declining health of Mr.
Loomis, and the little prospect we have of publishing one of the
Gospels or any similar work here until another printer shall
arrive,
Voted that we deem it expedient for him with his family to
undertake a voyage to the U. S. A. for the double purpose of
benefitting his health and superintending the printing of books
/
for this mission under the direction of the A. B. C. F. M.
Adjourned to 2 o'clock P. M.
Having assembled according to adjournment it was unanimously
resolved that a translation of the Gospel of Matthew be prepared
with all possible despatch for publication.
Voted that a committee of four be appointed to devise a
plan for carrying the above resolution into effect.
Made choice of the Rev. Messrs. Bingham, Thurston, Richards
�[1826]
p« 32
The committee having had leave to retire, returned after a
short recess of the general business, and presented the following
propositions which were accepted.
1st.
Resolved that the establishment of the orthography of
the foreign words adopted in the translation, the phraseology of
certain phrases that frequently occur, and the terms for chapter,
verse, faith, throne, tempt, genealogy etc. and the method of
translating the compound greek characters Theta, Phi, Chi be
referred to ftiose who have completed a translation of Matthew, to
be agreed on before they leave this place including as far as may
be the translation of the most difficult passages in the work.
2nd.
Resolved that a Committee of two be appointed to pre
pare a copy for the press and submit it to the approval of all the
members of the mission who shall be present when prepared.
Ballots being taken the Rev. Messrs. Bingham & Richards
received a plurality & were chosen.
In consequence of the kindness, liberality and cooperation
of most of the principal chiefs in promoting the objects of the
mission:
Voted that the thanks of the mission be presented to Kaahumanu, Kauikeaouli, Nahienaena, Kalaimoku, Naihe, Kaplolanl,
Hoapili, Hoapili-wahine, & Kapule for their liberality to the
missionaries and their steady and efficient patronage of the
cause of the mission.
Voted that Mr. Bingham communicate the sense of the tabove
vote to the persons therein named.
Voted that Mr* Thurston express to Gov. Adams the thanks of
the mission for his commendable conduct in causing to be erected
�[1826]
p. 33
at Kailua a large and commodious building for the public worship
of God.
Adjourned to 7 o’ck in the evening.
[p.32]
Met according to adjournment.
The subject relating to the prosecution of translation in
general with a view to put successive portions of scripture into
the hands of the people till they shall receive the Bible entire,
was held in discussion and it was voted that a committee of three
be appointed to propose an assignment of the three Gospels Mark,
Luke and JohPand other portions of Scripture to different members
of the mission to be translated as fast as may be practicable.
Chose the Rev. Messrs. Bingham, Richards and Bishop.
Voted that a committee of three be appointed to report on
the question What notice ought the Mission to take of calumny
and opposition.
,
Made^choice of the Rev. Messrs. Bingham, Richards & Levi
Chamberlain.
Voted that a committee of three be appoihted to report on
the question "How far may the missionaries properly advise the
chiefs as to their duty in commercial, political & civil affairs?"
Made choice of Rev. Messrs. Bishop, Ely & Goodrich.
Adjourned to 9 o'ck tomorrow morning.
Tuesday Sept. 26th.
Met according to adjournment.
Meeting opened by prayer by
the Scribe*
0
[p*33]
The following proposition was offered for consideration*
"What measures ought the mission to take to provide for the future
�[18263
p . 34
support,*education & well being of the children of the mission
aries?"
The subject excited much feeling and furnished occasion for
a good deal of discussion and it was dismissed for the present by
the following vote.
"Deeply impressed with the difficulty of giving our children
a proper education at the islands on account of the low state of
society, the extreme pressure of missionary labors and a sacred
regard to an economical appropriation of the funds of the Eoard:
Voted that a committee of three be appointed to address our
patrons on the subject of sending the children of the missionaries
to our native land."
Chose the Rev. Messrs. Richards Sc Bishop and Levi Chamberlain.
Voted that a committee of two be appointed to report on the
question. "In what manner may the more intelligent natives,
members of the church the hopefully pious or seriously disposed
chiefs and teachers be employed so as best to subserve the cause
of instruction & godliness?"
Chose for the committee Messrs. Ely Sc Ruggles.
Adjourned
to 3 o'ck P. M.
Met according to adjournment & voted to adjourn till called
together by the moderator.
Having been called to business by the moderator at 7 o’ck
in the evening the following report was presented & accepted.
The Committee appointed to report on thd question "In what
maimer may the more intelligent natives, members of the church
etc. be employed so as best to subserve the cause of instruction
&
godliness?" beg leave to suggest the following resolutions.
�[1826]
1st.
p. 35
Resolved that we deem It expedient and very desirable
in the present weak state of the mission that they avail them
selves of the aid of the more intelligent, pious & seriously
disposed chiefs and natives in teaching schools, visiting and
addressing the people on religious subjects and in the correction
of translations & religious tracts or other books for publication.
2nd.
Resolved that every native teacher who is now employed,
or shall hereefter be employed in teaching school shall be exam
ined by the missionary within whose limits he is to teach & obtain
from him a written certificate approving his qualifications and
assigning him his work; and if he vioMte
the instructions o f
his missionary his certificate shall be forfeit.
3rd.
Resolved that not native be allowed to convene a
congregation and conduct a religious meeting till such person,
shall have obtained the approbation of the missionary within whose
limits he resides.
Adjourned to Wednesday eve. 7. o'ck.
" xS
Wednesday Sept. 27.
Met according to adjournment.
Voted that Committee of one be appointed to draft three forms
of certificates to be given to such persons respectively as are
or may be from tiue to time employed by the mission as teachers
or catechists.
Chose the Rev. Mr. Richards.
Adjourned to 9 o'clock tomorrow morning.
�[1826]
p. 36
Thursday Sept* 28th.
Met for business at 12 o'ck A* M* Meeting opened by prayer
by the moderator.
The three foias of certificates referred to a committee of
one to be drawn up were presented and being approved were ordered
to be printed.
Adjourned to 2 o'ck afternoon.
The committee appointed to report on the question "How far
may the missionaries properly advise the chiefs as to their duty
in commercial, political & civil affairs", presented the follow
ing report which was unanimously accepted.
"The Committee appointed to report on the question, "How far
may the missionaries properly advise the chiefs as to their duty
In commercial, political and civil affairs?" request leave to
state, that they have examined the subject and now lay before
the brethren the following Report.
1st.
Resolved that we consider ourselves required by our
instructions as well as by the nature of our office as ChristianMissionaries to abstain like our Divine master from all inter
meddling and interference with the political & party concerns of
the nation.
In the instructions delivered by Dr. Worcester to Messrs.
B. T. & their associates they are enjoined: "As the kingdom of
Christ to which you have the felicity to belong, and the Interests
of which only you are to seek, is not of this world: like him
you will withold yourselves entirely from all interference and
intermeddling with the political affairs & party concerns of the
nation or people among whom you reside, paying all proper respect
�E&-5Z
[1826]
to the powers that be & rendering to all their dues.
Again (Miss. Her. p. 108. Vol. 19 Inst, to reenforct.) You
are to abstain from ell interference with the local and political
views of the people.”
The kingdom of Christ is not of this world,
and it behooves a missionary to stand aloof from the private and
and transient interests of chiefs & rulers.
Inculcate the duties
of justice, moderation & forbearance, truth & universal kindness.
Do all in your power to make men of every class good wise &
happy.”
Let ifa be apparent that you have nothing to do with
traffic or gain, that far nobler objects brought you from your
native land, that you regard all the world has to offer as of
very little value compared with the salvation of a single soul.”
Perhaps little can be said by way of comment on the above,
as these instructions
ation.
are so explicit as to require no explan
We are in duty bound to our patrons and by the sacred
character of our office not to assume even the appearance of any
temporal authority or to act as magistrates in any case, or to
intermeddle with the party concerns of chiefs & people, which
have no relation to the Interest of religion.
The choice of
rulers & magistrates the levying & collecting of taxes, the
apportioning out of the lands the buying & selling of chiefs &
people either with foreigners or with each other and the manner
of administering the government of the islands, together with
the customs and usages of the country that are not in direct
varience with the spirit and precepts of the Gospel are things
with which we are not to interfere and over which we are not to
attempt to exercise control.
These are affairs which do not
affect us as missionaries, nor are we to advise concerning them
�[1826]
p. 38
or of anything else except requested, when they do not interfere
with the Gospel of the progress of civilization.
2nd.
Resolved that we are moreover bound by our instructions
and the nature of our office, to make known the whole word of
God, especially its prohibitions and requirements, which effect
the conscience or the well being of the soul, however opposed
these prohibitions and requirements may be to the former customs
& present practices of the people.
"Your views" say the Prud. Com. "are not to be limited to a
low or narrow scale, but you are to open your hearts wide, and
set your mark high.
You are to aim at nothing short of covering
these islands with fruitful fields and pleasant dwellings and
schools & churches and raising up the whole people to an elevated
state of Christian civilization."
Again,
To obtain an adequate
knowledge of the language of the people, to make them acquainted
with letters, to give them the Bible with skill to read it; to
turn them from their barbarous courses & habits, to introduce &
get into extended operation & influence among them, the arts &
instructions and usuages of civilized life and society; above all
to convert them from their idolatries superstitions and vices to
the living & redeeming God; his truth his laws, his ways of life,
of virtue & glory."
To effect this we are to preach the whole
word of God and to keep back no part of it.
Ezek. 3. 17.
"Son
of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel,
therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from
me".
This and the four following verses enjoin in the strongest
terms the duty of ministers of the Gospel to be faithful in
preaching the word of God without disguise or concealment, and
�[1826]
p. 39
declare the high & fearful responsibility of those who fail to
discharge this high trust.
The blood of souls lost through their
unfaithfulness will be required at their hands.
The example of
Christ and his Apostles is the model upon which we are to form
our manner of preaching.
They hesitated not to declare in full
[sic]
the truth of God Before kings & rulers, to "reason of^temperance
righteousness and a judgement [sic] to come", and to exhort them
to repentance & amendment of life in order to obtain the Salvation
of Christ.
We are to specify the particular vices which are con
demned by the law of God and enforce the necessity of forsaking
them, both by precept and example.
How deeply rooted soever may be the prejudice in favor of
their vices, however interwoven they may be with their government,
however sanctioned by antiquity we are not to cease lifting up
our voices against them as the destroyers both of temporal peace
and eternal happiness.
At the same time our instructions are to
go no father than exhortaion and advice.
This must be done in
the spirit of meekness and fiffectionate concern for the welfare
of those whom we address.
3rd.
Resolved that in perfect consistency with our instruct
ions and the maintenance of our proper characters as Christian
teachers we may give information end advice with respect to the
"arts and institutions & usuages of eivililized life and society",
and may use our influence to dlscountenaace every vice, and
*
encourage every virtue.
It has been declared our instructions already quoted that a
prominent object of our enterprise is to raise this people from
their present degredation to a state of Christian civilization.
�[1826]
p. 40
In order to effect this purpose we are to encourage the intro
duction of the civil and domestic arts and virtues.
We are to
teach them justice, prudence, humanity, and diligence in business,
to inforce our instructions by setting before them proper motives
and sanctions, and to illustrate our principles by practical and
familiar examples.
Whenever we are called upon by those in
authority for Instruction or advice of a civil or political
nature, then we may give it, showing our disinterestedness in so
doing.
In giving advice to chiefs and others asking it, a good
and perfectly safe rule is, to adhere strictly to the word of
God as authority, in all instances where it is applicable to the
case, and where it is not explicit on the point of inquiry, it
is proper to cite the usuages of Christian nations as authority
for our opinions.
Nor ought we to conceal from others what are
our motives and designs. Viz, to produce an entire change in the
former state of things in these islands and to aim at nothing
short of raising up the whole people to an elevated state of
Christian civilization.
At the same time let it be distinctly
known, that we seek not theirs but them: —
that we wish not for
their property or their lands or their kingdom.
Let it be known
that our object is solely to Instruct the people to give their
hearts to God, and to submit cheerfully to the obedience of his
laws.
In regard to the preparing and establishing a code of laws
for the regulation and government of these islands, the committee
are of the opinion that we ought not to be indifferent to the
kind & nature of the laws about to be promulgated.
As members of
the community, as teachers of the chiefs & people it will be our
�[1826]
p.41
duty to give information and advice as far as is necessary when
asked so to do by the proper authorities.
It will doubtless be
the wish of the rulers of the nation to make their laws accord
with and be founded upon the word and laws of God.
Such being the
case, it will be expected that we shall make known to them the
laws of God, as well as the nature of those codes of laws that
are adopted by Christian nations.
The part then in our opinion that we are to take in regard
to
to a code of laws for this nation, is not^dictate what shall and
what shall not be enacted but rather to explain the principles &
designs of laws.
We may also translate if necessary for their
use such of the laws of foreign nations as may be applicable to
the condition of this people, and to render them any other such
assistance when requested as shall be consistent with our pro
fession as Christian teachers.
At the same time we are to leave
entirely to the Rulers to adopt or reject such as they choose
without our reference or attempt to procure the adoption of any
law or set of laws.
All which is respectfully submitted
A. Bishop
J. Goodrich
James Ely.”
Adjourned to 9 o'clock tomorrow morning.
Friday Sept. 29.
Met at 10 o’elk A. M. prayer by Mr. Bishop.
Voted to adjourn till 7 o'clock in the evening.
Met according to adjournment.
�[18263
p. 42
Voted that a Committee of one be appointed to revise the
hymns for republication in America under the direction of the
Board.
Appointed Mr. Bingham.
Voted that a Committee of one b£ appointed to revise the
Tracts 1, 2, 3, & 4, and that they be sent to America to be
printed under the direction of the Board.
Chose the Rev.
Asa Thurston.
The Committee appointed to propose an assignment of the
three Gospels of Mark, Luke 3c John and other portions of the
sacred Scriptures to be translated, reported the following
arrangement.
1st.
A translation of the account of the creation, of the
flood and other important facts in the book of Genesis, be
assigned to Messrs. Thurston and Bishop to be prepared in the
form of a tract.
2nd.
The story of Joseph to Mr. Ely for a tract.
3rd.
The whole book of Genesis to Messrs. Thurston, Bishop
& Ely.
4th.
A sketch of Scripture history to Mr. Bingham to be
prepared for a tract.
5th.
Mark to Mr. Richards.
6th.
John to Messrs. Thurston, Bishop & Ely.
7th.
Luke to Messrs. Blnghm Sc Whitney.
8th.
The Epistles of John to Mr. Goodrich.
9th.
The prominent parts of Christ's sermon to be selected
from the evangelist to Mr. Richards for a tract.
Upon the subject
of supplying the place of Mr. Loomis in the printing department
the following motion was offered.
�[182611
P » 45
Motioned that this mission will approve the voluntary offer
of service on the part of any individual member to fill the
vacancy in the printing department which Mr. Loomis’ removal
from the islands will occasion.
Adjourned to 9 o'ci tomorrow morning.
Saturday Sept. 30th.
Met according to adjournment; prayer by Mr. Richards.
On
resuming the subject of supplying Mr. Loomis' place in the print
ing department of the mission the following resolution was pro
posed and unanimously adopted.
Resolved that our present arrangement for supplying Mr.
Loomis' place as a printer be limited to the time of his return
or to the arrival of another printer.
Voted that the further discussion and the decision of this
subject be deferred till Monday morning.
Voted that a committee of four be chosen to report upon the
proportion of Hawaiian books proper to be assigned to each station
and the method of disposing of them to the people.
The Committee chosen were the following: Messrs. Richards,
Thurston, Ruggles and Chamberlain.
After much discussion of the subject of marriage among the
natives the following order was taken.
Voted to appoint a committee of two to report on the question
"What ground ought the missionaries to take respecting marriage
among the natives?"
Chose the Rev. Messrs. Bingham & Richards.
Mr. Bingham having been requested to communicate some facts
�[1826]
P » 44
respecting the riot at Honolulu headed by the crew of the U. S.
Schooner Dolphin read a history of that affair.
Adjourned to 2 o’eft P. M.
Met according to adjournment.
Considerable time having been taken up in conversation on general
subjects the Committee for apportioning the books for the differ
ent stations and for fixing on a general method of disposing of
them to the people, presented the following resolutions which
were adopted.
1«
Resolved that for a present arrangement Kauai be allowed one
tenth of all the books printed except the First; Oahu, three
tenths; Maui, two tenths; and Hawaii, four tenths.
2.
Resolved that the new schools may be supplied gratuitously
with the First book at the discretion of the missionary super
intending them.
3rd. Resolved that we deem it expedient to exchange our other
books for any of the produce of the islands that we can turn to
good account, regulating the prices according to the value of
the articles at the station where exchanged.
Adjourned till monday morning 9 o ’ck.
Monday October 2nd.
Met according to adjournment.
Resumed the subject of supplying Mr. Loomis' place as a printer,
and
Voted in order to forward the business of printing, the
mission decidedly approve of Mr. Goodrich's removing from his
present station to Honolulu: but if he shall not feel it proper
to remove Immediately, Voted that we approve of his removal at
�[1826]
p. 45
some future period when other provision shall be made for Kilo
or some of his present objections be removed.
Adjourned to 2 o ’ck P. M.
Met according to adjournment.
Speht most of the afternoon in conversation respecting the
propriety of selling books and other articles for Cash; the
following vote was introduced but was not passed as it was thought
the first part of it related to a principle which the mission
have ever acted upon, and the second part was too restricted for
some of the stations: Viz.
Voted that the mission be at liberty to exchange with the
natives or foreigners such articles as they may have at their
disposal for any article of support which they need: but that it
is not expedient at present to sell articles for cash except in
peculiar cases.
Adjourned to Wednesday morning, 9 o'ck.
Wednesday, Octr. 4th.
Met according to adjournment.
The meeting having been opened by prayer by Mr. Bishop,
the Committee appointed to report upon the question, "What notice
ought the mission to take of calumny & opposition," presented a
draft of their report which was read; and permission granted to
defer the acceptance of it till a future meeting.
Adjourned to 7 o'ck in the evening.
Met according to adjournment.
The evening was spent in conversation upon the question —
"What ground ought the missionaries to take respecting marriages
among the people."
This subject having been referred to a
�[1826]
p. 46
committee, and that Committee not being prepared to report, the
further consideration of it was deferred for the present.
Adjourned to tomorrow 9 o'ck A, M.
Thursday October 5th.
Met according to adjournment, —
prayer
by the Scribe.
The Committee appointed to report on the question, "What
notice ought the mission to take of calumny & opposition," proposed
the following resolution which were unanimously accepted.
1st. Resolved that every missionary ought studiously to avoid a
personal controversy with any opposer, and to show the spirit of
kindness and forbearance which the Gospel recommends in case of
abuse in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves.
2nd. Resolved that in case of an attack particular or general,
we will, in the exercise of the unalienable rights of self defense,
aim to magnify our office, and vindicate the cause of God rather
than to gain any personal advantage.
3rd. Resolved that while each conforms to the general principles
of the mission, the cause of each shall be the cause of all, and
as personal controversy should be avoided and the cause of the
Gospel nott surrendered, it will be specially important that one
support another.
4th. Resolved that in case our characters, our principles or
practice be misrepresented in a manner calculated materially to
injure, if not corrected the cause of Christianity, it will be
our duty of course to plead that cause by a carefiul statement of
facts, and by setting truth in the plainest possible light,
especially before the chiefs and others interedted in the welfare
�[1826]
p. 47
of the nation.
5th. Resolved that a fair history of the opposition to the mission
as well as of its labors and progress be transmitted to our patrons
for their information and for the benefit of the common cause.
6th. Resolved that a circular be printed embracing the prominent
facts relating to the principles, practice & progress of the
mission for the Information of strangers and others particularly
interested in the cause of improvement*
Voted that we deem the enmity, insult, opposition & violence,
recently exercised towards Mr. Bingham, as originating from enmity
to our common cause, and therefore directed towards all our number;
and with great pleasure tender him our sympathies, and pledge
ourselves to defend him to the greatest extent of our ability
from so ungrounded abuse.
Voted that a Committee of one be appointed to prepare a
joint letter to the Board embracing all the particulars on which
we wish to address them.
Chose Mr. Bingham.
Voted an adjournment till called together by the moderator.
Saturday October 7th.
Met, and after addressing the throne of grace by prayer, the
committee appointed to report upon the subject of solemnizing
marriage among the people, presented the following report which
was accepted.
[p*49]
The Committee appointed to report on the question, what
ground ought the missionary to take respecting marriages among
the people beg leave to propose the following brief resolutions
not so much to display any new views as to secure a uniformity
�[1826]
p* 48
of practice.
1.
Resolved that we make it a point of special concern to
explain & enforce the marriage duties among the people; and when
applied to by proper persons, to assist in solemnizing marriage
with the consent of some chief either expressed in person or
implied by a law regulating marriage*
2.
Resolved that no marriage should be solemnized within
the degrees of consanguinity or affinity forbidden by the word
of God.
3.
Resolved that it is not conformable with the Gospel for
any man to have more than one wife, nor for any woman to have
more than one husband at the same time*
4.
Resolved that marriages contracted in a state of
heathenism, and not now repugnant ot scripture rules, are of
perpetual obligation without a new or formal ratification; but
an acknowledgment from the parties that they consider themselves
bound by Gospel rules, shall be required before either of the
parties can be eligible for church membership.
5.
Resolved In case one of the contracting parties was not
a heathen, either Christian marriage or some good evidence of
honorable marriage equivalent at least to a declaration from the
parties that they have been truly bound by the marriage contract
shall be required before their living together can be approved by
the missionaries as regular, and before either of the parties can
be eligible for church membership.
6.
Resolved that marriages contracted between parties
professing to follow the word of God in order to be approved as
regular must be solemnized by some chief or missionary or by both
�[1826]
p. 49
In connexion & in presence of a competent number of witnesses.
But if in violation of this rule the marriage be contracted
according to the former custom of this country, it shall be con
sidered binding unless Inconsistent with scripture rules: but if
the parties desire a formal ratification, they may declare them
selves to be man and wife before a missionary and witnesses,
which declaration shall be recorded.
This shall always be
required before either of the parties is held up to public notice
by the missionaries.
7th.
Resolved that an aggrieved party Justly complaining
of adultery or wilful desertion such as neither private instruct
ion, the voice of the church, nor the civil authority can remedy,
may by the consent of the proper authorties be married to another.
8.
Resolved that the deserting cannot contract a new
marriage conformable with the word of God untill the deserted be
known to be fairly divorced.
The committee appointed to address our patrons on the subject
of sending the children of the missionaries to our native land
reported the following address which was accepted.
"We wish here to call the attention of our patrons to a
subject which in our bosoms awakens the liveliest feelings and
the tenderest anxieties.
Those who are patents will pardon us
if while writing we should for a moment seem to forget some of
our other duties and fix our minds on the awful responsibilities
of parents, responsibilities from which we can never be released
by the fulfilment of any other duties however sacred, however
Important or however binding they may be.
The time has arrived with some of our children, when the
�[1826]
p. 50
foundation must be laid for their education, on which must depend
all their future prospects, both for this world and the next.
The common privilege of parents to select a suitable employment
for their children, by which they may procure a livelihood and
render themselves respectable and useful in society and then
order the particulars of their education with reference to that
employment; —
this privilege is not ours.
specially anxious that it should be.
Neither do we feel
We can with confidence &
satisfaction recommend our children to the parental direction of
those through whose faithfulness and provident care we have
received all that we ourselves enjoy*
To recommend them to your guardianship & direction is the
object we now have in view.
We do this that we may receive
direction and advice from you as to the course we are to adopt
respecting them.
We know it would be your wish and ardent prayer
that they should all become teachers and preachers to the heathen,
and ornaments to the missionary character.
We need not tell you
that this would be the highest wish of our hearts; and could we
see them in circumstances by which we might rationally expect
they would be well prepared for the work, our warmest desires
would be gratified, and we should be saved the painful necessity
of addressing you on so delicate a subject.
not
But these are^the clrcvimstances of our children.
Many of
them have no associates unless we permit them to associate with
the heathen, which indeed we cannot always prevent.
Those who
know the constant calls and interruptions & duties of the mission
ary will not expect that they shall be every hour under their
parents care.
They are therefore from the moment they begin to
�[1826]
p. 51
prattle exposed to the contaminating influences of heathenish
habits & vices, and for these they must almost as a matter of
course contract a relish notwithstanding the utmost vigilence of
the parents*
Who does not know that the children of the same neighborhood
and circle have the same general habits, manners, taste & language,
even though there may be a difference in the characters of their
parents.
What good father does not charge his children to shun the
society of the vicious as a mortal enemy?
And no parent expects
to succeed in training up his children in the right way unless
he can secure for them good associates.
A volume could not fully
represent to our patrons the degrading influence which the habits
of this people are calculated to exert, and which they really
have over hundreds & hundreds who visit these islands from civil
ized lands.
But our fears do not end here.
Where are the schools
for and who shall be the teachers of our children?
If it should
be said we ought to teach them ourselves, we would enquire what
parents in America are the teachers of their own children, and is
it to be supposed that the missionary is of all men the most free
from care and labor?
But even could they receive a good education and escape the
contaminating influence of the society, where is the sphere In
which they are to act in after life?
They cannot engage in mer
cantile persuits [sic] as they will not be fitted for them nor
enjoy advantages in that respect; they will have no encouragement
to settle down on the soil as agriculturists, and if they should
become mariners, where are their prospects?
They will therefore
�«
[1826]
P. 52
be in danger of sinking to a level with the natives, or what is
worse to the condition of some of those who from enlightened
lands have taken up a residence upon these shores.
And then
instead of being a blessing to the nation they will be a curse,
—
a grief & sorrow of heart to their parents and a reproach to
the missionary name.
Should it be urged that the establishment
of a school at these islands would obviate the difficulties above
mentioned, it taay still be asked, after all the expense of en
dowing and supporting such an establishment, what is to become
of the children when they shall have passed through the institution
and entered upon the new and untried scenes of the world?
In what
business of life shall they engage to procure a support for them
selves & be useful to society?
If it be answered let them engage
in the work of instructing the people, We reply, those whose
hearts incline them to the work may properly enter upon it: but
they will unavoidably be ignorant of many of the liberal arts and
will not be as well qualified for extensive usefulness as persons
educated in civilized lands.
But it cannot be expected that £^1
will feel disposed to devote like their parents their lives &
their all to the service of the heathen.
There appear to us many objections to a seminary in this
land; and not the least, the expense it would involve.
To answer
the design of such an institution, buildings must be erected for
the purpose constructed & furnished differently from any other
establishment in the islands.
The most healthy situation must be
chosen and the premises guarded by suitable enclosures, and the
whole placed under the direction of a competent person whose time
and attention must be exclusively devoted to the Instruction of
�[1826]
p. 53
the pupils in the institution.
Such darkness hangs over the whole subject therefore while
we see our children confined to these shores that we are com
pelled to enquire whether they cannot be furnished with a home in
the land of their fathers,
not
Were^our feelings strong on this subject, you will not suppose
that we should seek the painful sacrifice of sundering those bonds
by which our children are bound to our hearts.
Some of us have
friends who would gladly educate our children, others would render
considerable assistance, but others must trust to the benevolence
of strangers, — all however must be under the general direction
of the Board.
But we leave the subject with you, requesting that as soon
as you have duly considered it, you would give your advice &
direction.”
”Voted that we approve of Mr. Ruggles leaving Kauai in
consequence of declining
health and of joining the station at
Waiakea whenever his health and other circumstances require it.”
The following resolution was next proposed and accepted.
Resolved that in consequence of the present weak state of
the mission and the ill health of Mr. Whitney’s- family and his
being
left single handed, the mission decidedly approve of Mr.
Whitney’s removal for a season to some of the other stations, if
that should be agreeable to his views of duty.
Voted to adjourn till call together by the moderator.
Friday October 20th.
Meeting was again called by the Moderator
and opened with prayer by Mr. Ely.
�r
[1826]
P» 54
Mr. Bishop was chosen Scribe Pro. tem.
Mr. Richards stated to the meeting that circumstances would
render it necessary for him to return to Lahaina early the next
week and begged leave to resign his office as one of the committee
to prepare a copy of the Gospel of Matthew for the press.
His
resignation was accepted and Messrs. Thurston & Bishop were
appointed in his stead*
Voted,that in case Dr. Blatchely should return to America
before the next general meeting of the Mission the Moderator &
standing Scribe be instructed to prepare a statement of Dr. B's
case to be transmitted to the Board: the statement to embrace an
account of the Dr’s illness his application to the brethren for
their approbation of his proposed return, our vote upon the sub
ject and such other reasons as may be in our possession that
induced the Dr. to return at this time.
[p.56]
Voted also that by and with the advice of any two Brethren
of different stations the Scribe be instructed to give information
to the Brethren of the different stations of the place and time
of our next meeting, and as far as possible the principal objects
for which we shall meet after the first of June next.
Adjourned to meet again at Oahu in June of next year.
Concluded with prayer by Mr. Bishop.
Asa Thurston
Levi Chamberlain, Secretary.
Moderator
�
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes - 1826
Date
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1826
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https://hmha.missionhouses.org/files/original/5ed3b46217f8687b6fc9be5c7ab9872d.pdf
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Text
- U N P U B L I S H E D -
"Minutes of General
Meetings of the Mission”
1. May 16 - June 20, 1825, [Honolulu]
2. Sept. 23 - Oct. 20, 1826,[Kailua]
3 . Apr. 23 - May 3, 1828, [Honolulu]
Copied from Original found in Archives,
Hawaiian Board.
Nov. 1909.
�p. 55
(p.57)
Minutes of the third general meeting
of the Sandwich Island Mission.
On the 30th of March 1828 the Sandwich Island Mission
was enlarged by the arrival of a Second reenforcement, sent
out by the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Mis
sion, consisting of sixteen individuals, comprising four
ordained missionaries and their wives, a physician & print
er and their wives, and four single females:
viz.
Lorrin Andrews
Jonathan S. Green
ordained missionaries, with their
Ephraim W. Clark
wives.
Peter J. Gulick
Gerrit P. Judd
Physician, with his wife.
Stephen Shepard,
Printer, with his wife.
Miss Maria C. Ogden \
Miss Mary Ward
/
C
unmarried ladies.
Miss Delia Stone
a J
Miss Maria Patten
The Missionary Packet was despatched to Lahaina & Kai
lua to Inform the brethren of the above accession to our
numbers, and to request their attendance at Honolulu for
the purposes of a general meeting.
On the 19th of April Mr. & Mrs. Ely arrived from Kaawaloa in the ship Friends, and on the 22nd Mr. Bishop from
Kailua, and Mr. & Mrs. Richards from Lahaina in the Packet.
(p.58)
Mr . Goodrich of the Hilo station was previously at Honolulu
and Messrs. Bingham and Chamberlain permanent members of the
station.
�r
(1828)
p. 56
Organisation (sic) of the Meeting
Honolulu, April 23rd 1828.
The brethren having assembled this morning for the purpose
of organising (sic) a meeting, Mr. Bingham at whose house
were convened, called them to order, and directed them to
bring in their votes for a moderator and scribe.
Mr. Richards was chosen Moderator & Levi Chamberlain
Scribe.
The meeting was then opened with prayer by the moderator,
and afterwards the moderator read the regulations adopted
at the last general meeting respecting the manner of con
ducting the meetings of the mission.
The appointment of a committee of overtures was mo
tioned to consist of three persons, and
Hiram Bingham, A. Bishop and
James Ely chosen to discharge the duties of it.
Motion to adjournment being made and seconded, one o ’clock
P. M. was the hour fixed on for reassembling and attending
to the report of the committee of overtures.
Met at 1 o ’ck, and the meeting opened with prayer by
Mr. Bishop.
The Committee of overtures presented their report of
subjects as far as they had been able to consider them and
place them in order, and communicated as follows:
(p.59)
1st. Immediate supply of matter for printing.
2nd. The expediency of sending one of our number to the
N. W. Coast of America in compliance with the Instructions
of the Board.
3rd. If expedient, the appointment of the person.
L
they
�( 1828)
p . 57
4th. The location of the reenforcement.
5th. Location of printing presses.
The senior missionaries feeling it desirable that the mem
bers of the reenforcement should be formally accepted as
fellow laborers, and their certificates from the Correspond
ing Secretary of the Board, of their appointment to this
mission having been read, the following resolution was pre
sented & adopted.
With devout thanksgivings to the Lord of Missions for
his gracious Providence in bringing so seasonably to the
aid of this mission the second large reenforcement, appoint
ed and sent forth by the American Board as a new pledge of
the Churches to support the cause of civilization and
Christianity in the Sandwich Islands.
Resolved that we who have been permitted earlier to
(sic)
engage in the tolls of this open and whitnlng/field cor
dially receive them as fellow laborers and helpers In the
cause of truth, and members of this mission, both proffer
ing and inviting that friendly, faithful and constant co
operation & support in our common cause which the nature of
the work and the arduous duties of the office of the mis
sionary invariably require, uniting affectionately now in
the transactions of the present general meeting and hence
forth in all the duties and privileges of the mission as
the Lord shall direct.
Adjourned to meet at half past 7 o*ck tomorrow morn
ing.
Thursday April 24th.
Met according to adjournment,
meeting opened by prayer by Mr. Gullck.
Mr. Bingham having requested to be excused from serv-
�(1828)
p. 58
ing as a member of the Committee of overtures motioned that
the gentleman who was next highest on the list should be re
ceived in his stead:
the motion was passed and Mr. «ndrews
declared to be of the Committee instead of Mr. Bingham.
Voted that the subject of the Immediate supply of mat
ter for printing be connected with the subject of the lo
cation of the printing presses and printer, and be
considered at the time that that subject is taken up.
Voted to refer the second subject on the list viz.
"The expediency of sending one of our number to the N. W.
Coast of America in compliance with the instructions of the
Board," to a Committee of three:
and made choice for this
committee of Messrs. Bingham, Richards and Andrews.
Voted that a Committee of three be appointed to attend
to the 4th subject: viz. "The location of the reenforce
ment", and made choice of Messrs. Chamberlain, Green and
Bishop.
In reference to the 5th subject viz. "Location of print
ing presses & supply of matter for printing during the
year";
Voted that it be referred to a committee of three,
and made choice of Messrs, Ely, Richards & Andrews.
Voted to adjourn to meet again at the call of the mod
erator or Scribe.
Being called together In the evening by the moderator
and the meeting opened by prayer by bro. Andrews, the Com
mittee to whom was referred the subject of the North West
Coast, reported as follows! viz.
The Committee appointed to consider "the expediency of
sending one of our number to the ^orth W. Coast of America
in compliance with the suggestions of the Board", beg leave
�( 1828)
p . 59
to reports
1st. That in the opinion of the committee it is inex
pedient at present to make the survey proposed by the Board
and for the following reasons,
1st. That from the best information obtained it
does not appear that a survey could now with safety be
so thoroughly made as at all to satisfy the Christian
public.
2nd. No good opportunity of proceeding to the coast
is at present known.
3rd. The field of labor is so widely open at these
islands that in the present state of the mission all
our strength is required here.
4th. Kaahumany. and several of the other chiefs
have expressed an unwillingness that any individual
should at present be removed from this field of labor.
Ilnd. That in the opinion of the committee three persons
should be appointed to investigate the subject more thor
oughly, and whenever they shall consider the way to be open
for such a survey, and the strength of the mission will ad
mit, such individual or individuals be appointed for the
purpose as the mission shall then deem proper.
All which is respectfully submitted to the meeting
H. Bingham
L. Andrews
W. Richards
The votes for the Committee recommended in the above
report being called for eholce was made of Messrs.Bingham,
Clark & Green.
�(1828)
p. 60
In reference to the next subject proposed by the Com
mittee of overtures; viz.
"Distribution of Hawaiian books
& tracts to the several stations and the sale of them":
Voted that a Committee of three be appointed to report on
the subject.
For this Committee made choice of Messrs. Ely, Richards
and Chamberlain.
In regard to the next subject:viz. "The disposal of a
house frame and lumber";
Voted a committee of three be ap
pointed to report on this subject and made choice of Messrs.
Richards, Chamberlain & Bishop.
Voted to adjourn till called together by the moderator.
Saturday April 26th.
The brethren having been notifyed (sic) by
the moderator assembled to attend to business:
meeting was
opened with prayer by Mr. Ely.
The Committee to whom was referred the subject of the
location of the presses, —
printing etc. presented the fol*
lowing report which was accepted.
The committee appointed to consider and report on the "Lo
cation of the printing presses and supply of matter for the
presses during the year", beg leave to offer the following
report.
I.
That the presses be located at Honolulu.
II.
In supplying matter for the presses they would recom
mend the following publications.
1st. A fourth sheet for the hymns.
2nd. The remainder of Luke.
3rd. A historical tract from Genesis embracing the pe
riod from the creation to the history of Joseph.
4th. A tract comprising the most important events In
�(1828)
p. 61
Exodus and Leviticus.
5th. A tract comprising the most important events re
corded in Numbers & Deuteronomy.
6th. A historical tract from Joshua & Judges.
7th. One from the first and second books of Samuel
and so much of the first of Kings as to complete the his
tory of David.
8.
One from the two books of Kings and two Books of
Chronicles.
9.
One from Ezra and Nehemiah.
10.
The Book of Esther.
11.
Psalms sufficient for two forms.
12.
The Acts and Epistles.
13.
A historical catechism.
The Committee would recommend that two new elementary
books be prepared for publication one to comprise the out
lines of arithmetic and one the outlines of Geography.
The above named publications to be printed in the follow
ing order.
1.
The last sheet of hymns to be ready by the first
of May.
2.
Luke, the third sheet to be ready by the 15th of
3
The tract from Genesis, the first sheet to be
May.
ready by the first of June.
4
Acts to follow Luke after which the Epistles in
their order.
5
The tract from Exodus & Leviticus to follow the
tract from Genesis.
*
Next the Psalms, after which the tracts
from the old testament in order as mentioned above.
�(1828)
6
p. 62
The historical catechism to he printed as soon as
ready.
The Committee would recommend the assignment of the
following labors for the ensuing year.
Mr. Bingham
Last sheet of the hymns. —
Luke, the his
torical catechism & Psalms for 2 forms.
Mr. Bishop
One third of the tract from Genesis, half of
Romans and the 1st Epistle to the Corinthians.
Mr. Ely
One third of the tract from Genesis, —
Gala
tians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colosslans,
L.Thessalonians II.Thessalonians.
Mr. Richards Tract from Exodus, and the Acts of the Apos
tles .
Mr. Thurston One third of the tract from Genesis, half of
Romans & 2. Corinthians.
Mr. Whitney
half of Luke —
1. Timothy, 2 Timothy Titus
& Philemon.—
For the regulation of the presses the Committee would re
commend that three persons be appointed to superintend the
printing department whose business it shall be to make pro
vision for the supply of type, paper etc. —
proof sheets, —
to examine
in case of failure in the supply of matter
previously assigned to make new arrangements for a supply,
end to examine and direct In respect to any matter to be
printed not previously assigned by the mission.
All which is respectfully submitted
Lorrin Andrews
W. Richards
James Ely.
�(1828)
p. 63
The appointment of a Committee for the purposes above
expressed being approved, the ballots of the meeting were
called for, and the following persons chosen
H. Bingham, E. W. Clark & Wm. Richards.
The Committee appointed to Investigate more thoroughly
the subject
of an exploring visit to the North lest Coast
«
presented the following report which was accepted.
The Committee appointed to investigate more thoroughly
the subject of attempting to explore some part of the North
West Coast, particularly the region of the Columbie River
with reference to the establishment of a mission there in
conformity with the suggestions and wishes of the Board,
beg leave to report.
That in the opinion of the Committee the object is too
important not to be kept steadily in view and that in order
to act promptly as occasion may require an agent should be
designated before the meeting is dissolved to hold himself
in readiness to engage in that service as soon as in the
opinion of the Committee a favorable opportunity 13 present
ed.
Respectfully submitted
H. Bingham
E. W. Clark
J. S. Green
Votes for an agent to hold himself in readiness to vis
it the N. W. Coast as above recommended being called for the
\
Rev. Jonathan S. Green was chosen.
The Committee tc whcm wts referred the subject of location
presented their report as follows: — which was accepted: viz
The Committee to whom was referred the subject of the
�( 1828)
p. 64
location of the members of the late Reenforcement, report
that It Is desirable to keep as near to the advice of the
Prudential Committee on this subject as Is consistent with
the present state of the mission and the wants of the sev
eral stations.
1.
Therefore
Resolved, that Br. Gulick be recommended for the
supply of Kauai.
2.
That Br. Clark be recommended to remain at Oahu.
5.
That Br. Andrews be recommended to reside at La-
halna.
4.
That In consequence of the appointment of Mr.
Green to hold himself In readiness to visit the North West
Coast of America, It is recommended that he select the place
of his residence.
5.
* 6.
7.
That Dr. Judd be recommended to reside at Oahu.
That Br. Shepard be stationed at Oahu.
That the location of the unmarried ladies be re
ferred to the Sisters of the Mission.
All which is respectfully submitted
A. Bishop
J. S. Green
L. Chamberlain.
On the subject of collecting evidence in regard to the
conduct of Lieut. Percival while at the islands.
Voted that
a Committee of three be appointed to collect evidence in
”f»gard to the conduct of Lieut. Percival while at the is
lands agreeably to the request of the Corresponding Secy
of the Board, and to make out a communication for the use
of the Board to be forwarded by the first opportunity.
�(1828)
p. 65
Made choice for this Committee of Messrs. Bingham,
Richards end Chamberlain.
Adjourned till some business should be in readiness for the
deliberations of the meeting, & to be called together by
the Moderator.
Monday April 28th.
The meeting having been called together
by the moderator and opened with prayer by Mr. Gulick, the
Committee appointed to report on the distribution etc. of
books, presented the following report, which was accepted.
The Committee appointed to report respecting the Dis
tribution and Sale of books, respectfully report.
1.
That the station at Hilo be allowed 6/40; Kailua
7/40; — Kaawaloa 5/40; Lahaina 2/40; Honolulu 8/40 &
Kauai 4/40. —
2.
That the books be sold for money or any article
of produce or manufacture which can be turned to good ac
count.
3.
That the books be charged to the station at the
true cost which Is at present estimated at 1 1/3 cent per
sheet, but that the rate of selling the books to the natives
be six times what they are charged to the stations:
Examp.
the six half sheets of Luke when completed to be charged to
the stations at four cents and to be sold at 24 or 25 cents.
The committee would recommend that hymns be sold at 25 cents.
4th. That in the quarterly or annual accounts of each
station an estimate be made of the real value of the books
to the station.
Submitted
W. Richards
James Ely
L. Chamberlain
�( 1828)
p . 66
Upon the subject what course ought the missionaries to
pursue with respect to the Jesuits the following resolution
was adopted.
Resolved that a Committee of three be appointed to
inquire into the objects of the Jesuits now at this island,
to collect all the information possible respecting their
operations and to make out a communication on the subject
for the information of the Board.
Made choice of Messrs. Bingham, Clark & Chamberlain.
On the subject "In what light should the testimony of
natives In general be regarded"i
Voted that a Committee of two be appointed to draft
instructions to the standing committee for collections evi
dence respecting the riot of the Dolphin, expressing also
the views of the mission as to the value to be put upon the
testimony of natives.
Chose Messrs. Ely and Andrews.
Adjourned to be called together whenever there shall be
business.
Tuesday April 29 1828.
Met at the call of the moderator;
meeting opened by
prayer by Mr. Bingham.
The Committee to whom was referred the subject of the
house frame & lumber presented their report, which was ac
cepted.
The Committee appointed to report respecting the lum
ber beg leave to recommend:
1st. That the house frame be offered to Mr. Thurston
together with 4000 feet of boards & plank and all the other
necessary appendages that are supplied.
�( 1828)
p . 67
2nd. That the 3500 already sent to Kauai be consid
ered as the portion ef that station.
3rd. That 6000 feet be allowed to Honolulu for the
purpose of finishing the buildings already in a state of
forwardness.
4th. That the remainder estimated at 9000 feet be di
vided among the remaining members of the mission:
viz.
Messrs. Bishop, Ely, Ruggles and Goodrich.
5th. That the shingles, clapboards & lathing be re
served in the depository at the direction of the agent and
to be delivered out to the members of the mission as their
circumstances may require.
All which is respectfully submitted
W. Richards
A. Bishop
Levi Chamberlain
On motion,
Voted that a Committee of two be appointed to re
port on the expediency of the mission’s requiring compensa
tion for medical services rendered to foreigners & natives.
Chose for this Committee Dr. Judd and Ltjvi Chamberlain.
On the subject "How far ought the missionaries to go
in advising and instructing the chiefs and people in order
to comply with our instructions from the Board to get into
extensive operation & influence, the arts and usages and in
stitutions of civilized society: —
Voted that the resolves passed at the General Meeting of the
Mission held at Kailua be considered as the expression of
the sentiments of this meeting on the subject.
On motion
Voted that a committee of three be appoint
ed to report on the suggestions of the Board with respect
�(1828)
p. 68
to Mr. Clark’s labors among the foreigners and the treat
ment of the mission towards foreigners resident in or oc
casionally touching at the Islands.
Chose Messrs. Binghair, Clark & Andrews
Upon the question what matter shall be supplied for print
ing in America for the use of the mission.
Voted that the subject be referred to the committee
for superintending the presses.
On motion voted that a standing committee of three be
appointed to attend to the subject as to what method shell
be taken for securing a supply of paper type, ink, bind
ing instruments and other materials for book making adequate
to the anticipated wants of the nation.
Made choice of Messrs. Bingham, Richards & Andrews,
The Committee to vh om was referred the subject, In what
light shall the testimony of natives in general be viewed,
presented their report which was accepted.
The Committee appointed to express to the standing Commit
tee the opinion of the mission respecting the value of the
testimony of the natives, beg leave to suggest the follow
ing, as the result of long experience and close examination.
1
That when the natives are engaged in relating
second hand stories, that Is, things that have
been related to them by others, especially, if
they take much interest in them: — when they
give a relation of something out of the common
order of things, or of uncommon occurrence, —
when they speak of events for which they cannot
well account, or, of an event of which they do
not know the cause; — and especially, when they
�( 1828)
p . 69
relate that which In itself may border on the
marvellous;
like all Illiterate people, are very
apt to exaggerate, and thus, in such cases their
testimony should be admitted with extreme caution.
But:
2ndly
When the natives who have been instructed in
the principles of the Christian religion;
character and attributes of Jehovah;
countability to him;
the
their ac
who have taught the Scrip
tural doctrine of future rewards and punishments;
and in general, all the natives, when they make
direct statements of what they have seen, and
what they have not seen, — what they have heard
and what they have not heard, and especially,
when they are not Interested in deceiving; are
worthy of the same confidence and their testimony
should be considered of the seme value as that of
tL3 middle class of people In England or the
United States.
3rdly.
The mission are led to this opinion, from the
fact admitted by all jurists, that men of all
countries end all conditions, unbiased or unfluenced (sic) by passion, prejudice or interest naturally
speak truth rather than falsehood; — from the
fact also, that those who have been instructed
by the missionaries do as really understand the
obligation to speak truth, and the evil conse
quences of falsehood as taught In the word of
God, as the middling classes of persons in civil
ized countries; — and also from the fact that
�(1828)
P- 70
the missionaries in their intercourse & dealing
with the natives, do not experience any incon
venience from the want of veracity in them, than
they do from the want of it in those who have
been born and educated in Christian lands on civ
ilized countries.
Voted to adjourn to b© called together again at the dis
cretion of the moderator.
Friday May 2nd.
Met this evening for business, meeting
opened with prayer by Mr. Goodrich.
The Committee appointed to report respecting compensa
tion for medical services presented their report which was
accepted.
The Committee appointed to consider the subject of the
expediency of the mission’s requiring compensation fcr med
ical services beg leave to report, that in their opinion it
will not be expedient to make a formal charge either for
medicine or attendance, but that it will be proper to re
ceive compensation when offered the amount to be regulated
according to the discretion of the physician.
Dated Oahu April 29th 1828
On motion
Respectfully submitted by
Voted that the mission will require no other
compensation for the passage money of the four native
youth’s who attended the reenforcement thati a diligent at
tention to their duties as Christians among the people in
such a manner as the missionaries shall approve.
Voted that a Committee of three be appointed to give further
advice to the native youths and to report their views to this
�( 1828)
p . 71
meeting.
•
Made choice of Messrs. Bingham, Richards and Andrews.
Voted adjournment to be called together by the moderator.
Saturday May 3rd. At 2 o'ck P. M.
The meeting was
called together for business & opened with prayer —
The
Scribe being necessarily absent brother Andrews was appoint
ed Scribe pro tem.
On motion
Voted that a Committee of two be appointed to
make out the annual report to be prepared by the first of
September.
Made choice of Messrs. Richards & Andrews.
On motion
Voted that a Committee of two be appointed to
write a joint letter to the Board soon after this meeting.
Chose Messrs. Bingham and Bishop for that Committee.
On motion
Voted that the Committee appointed to report on
the suggestions of the Board with respect to Mr. Clark’s
labors among the foreigners and the treatment of the mis
sion towards foreigners resident in or occasionally touching
at the islands, be discharged from their duty to report on
the subject.
Adjourned to meet at 7 o ’ck in the evening.
Met according to adjournment meeting opened with prayer by
the Scribe.
The Committee appointed to give advice to the native
youths respecting their employment presented the following
report which was accepted; viz.
The Committee appointed to propose a plen for the em
ployment of the four native youths who accompanied the reenforcement so as to subserve the cause of the mission beg
leave to recommend
�(1628)
p. 72
1st. That Henry Tahiti be advised to attach himself
to the Printing Department in the same manner as Richard
has done to board in a native family, be under the direc
tion of ^r. Shepard and when sufficiently advance in the
art be paid wages as the means of his support.
2nd. That Tyler be advised to apply himself to his art
as shoe maker so as to give a good example of useful indus
try & thus procure his own support.
3rd. That Mills be advised to remove to Maui Immedi
ately and If agreeable to the young Princess attach himself
to her school as Instructor under the direction of the mis
sion there.
4th. That Phelps be advised to attach himself to the
Medical Department as a student & assistant under the di
rection of Dr. Judd, boarding in the family of a neighbor
ing chief and rendering such service in the laborious parts
of the Doctors practice as will afford him an opportunity
to pursue the study of theology.
Respectfully submitted,
H. Bingham
V?. Richards
L. Andrews.
On motion
Voted fhat (sic) Doctor Judd, agreeably to the design
expressed in his appointment, be allowed such facilities,
as will enable him to prosecute the study of Theology, with
a view to his preaching the Gospel.
Adjourned sine die.
Wm. Richards Moderator.
Levi Chamberlain Secretary.
�
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes - 1828
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1828
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Text
MINUTES
OF A
GENERAL MEETING
OF THE
SANDWICH ISLAND MISSION,
HELD AT HONOLULU,
Jan. 1830.
H onolulu, M onday,
Jan. 18, 1830.
T h i s afternoon the following members of the Sandwich Island
Mission met at the house of Rev. Mr. B i n g h a m , to attend to
the business of a General Meeting, viz:
Rev.
Mr.
H ir a m B in g h a m , }
S a m u e l W h i t n e y , > First
S a m u e l R u g g les, )
Mr.
L e v i C h a m b e r l a in ,
“
missionaries,
First reinforcement,
Rev.
L o r r in A n d r e w s ,
J o n a th a n S. G r e en ,
E p h r a i m W C l a r k ,,
G e r r i t P. J u d d , M. ~
u
u
Mr.
>Second reinforcement,
S teph en S h epard ,
The moderator of the last meeting not being present, Mr,
Bingham called to order, and received the ballots for u
moderator.
A
�COMMITTEE OF OVERTURES* LIST.
[1830.
Choice was made of Rev. S a m u e l W h i t n e y .
The moderator, having taken the chair, called for the ballots
for a scribe.
Choice was made of Mr. L e v i C h a m b e r l a i n .
The meeting was then opened with prayer by the moderator;
and being ready to proceed to business,
On motion, voted, that the scribe read the minutes of the last
general meeting. The minutes having been read;
On motion, voted, that the standing rules for the regulation of
the genofal meetings of the Mission be also read: and they were
read accordingly.
_
On motion, voted, that a committee of overtures be chosen
to make out a list of subjects for the deliberations of this meet
ing. Chose Messrs. Bingham, Andrews and Clark.
The committee of overtures presented their list; as follows:
1 Reports of standing committees for the last year.
2 Mission to the North W est Coast of America.
3 Station at Waimea.
4 Aid to the station at Hilo.
5 Location of Mr. Green.
6 Translations and elementary books.
7 Printing.
8 Disposal of books, and the manner of accounting for them.
9 Presents, earnings, &c.
10 Jesuits—What course shall be recommended respecting
them.
11 Regulations for general meetings.
12 Subject of general letters.
13 Records and transactions of the mission.
14 Translating and publishing for the King and Chiefs.
15 An annual report to the Board, of the progress and state
of the Mission.
16 A joint letter, embracing the principal transactions of this
meeting and reply to letters from the Board.
17 A letter to the American Bible Society.
18 A letter to the American Tract Society.
19 A letter to the American Seaman’s Friend Society, on the
subject of a mission to the Port of Honolulu.
20 A letter to the Secretary of the United States’ Navy,
Ditto.
to the London Missionary Society.
�1 8 3 0 .]
APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEES,
21 A letter to the Society of Inquiry on the Subject of Mis*
ions at Andover, Mass.
22
Ditto, to ditto, at Princeton, N. Jersey.
23
Ditto, to ditto, at Auburn, N. York.
24 A letter to Rev. C, S. Stewart, in answer to his address
ed to the Mission.
25 W hat rule shall be adopted respecting ardent spirits as it
respects, ourselves, our pupils, and our visitors.
26 Disposal of books auxiliary to translations, and recent
publications from the Board.
27 W hat new measures shall be adopted to forward the pre
partition of native teachers to be preachers of the Gospel to their
countrymen.
28 Labour among the foreigners at Honolulu.
29 Principles of intercourse with the chiefs.
On Subject No. 1— On motion, voted, that the committee
appointed at the last general meeting, to inquire into the ob
jects of the Jesuits, report their proceedings.
The committee not being fully prepared, requested leave to
defer their report to some future time; which was granted.
On motion, voted, thaf this meeting will attend, at 8 o’clock
on Wednesday morning, to the hearing of the reports of all the
standing committees appointed at the last general meeting.
A djourned.
T uesda y,
Jan. 19.
Met at 8 o’clock, A. M. Meeting opened with prayer by
Mr. Bingham.
On No. 2— On motion, voted, that the subject of a mission
to the North W est Coast of America, be referred to the stand
ing committee appointed at the last general meeting.
On 3d— On motion, voted, that the subject of a Station at
Wa.im.eaj on Hawaii, be referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs Andrews, Judd and Chamberlain.
On 4th— On motion, voted, that the subject of Aid to Hilo,
be referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs. Bingham, Green and Chamberlain.
On 5th—On motion, voted, that the subjoct of the location of
M r Green, be referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs. Bingham, Andrews and Clark.
�4
WAIMEA,'— COMMITTEE’S REPORT.
[1830,
On 6th—On motion, voted, that the subject of translations
and elementary books, be referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs. Bingham, Andrews and Whitney.
On 7th— On motion, voted, that the subject of printing, be
referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs. Andrews, Clark and Shepard.
On 8th— On motion, voted, that the subject of the disposal of
books, and the manner in which they shall be accounted for, be
referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs. Bingham, Whitney and Chamberlain.
On 9th—On motion, voted, that the subject of presents^
earnings, &c., be referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs. Chamberlain, Green and Clark.
On 10th— On motion, voted, that the subject of the Jesuits—What course shall be recommended respecting them ?—be re
ferred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs Whitney, Andrews and Green.
On 11th—On motion, voted, that the subject of regulations
for general meetings, be referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs. Green, Clark, and Chamberlain.
On 12th —On motion, voted, that the subject of general let
ters, be referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs. Andrews, Whitney and Clark.
On 13th—On motion, voted, that the subject of records and
transactions of the mission, be referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs. Judd, Chamberlain and Clark.
On 14th— On motion, voted, that the subject of translating
and publishing for the King and Chiefs, be referred to a com
mittee of three.
Chose Messrs. Whitney, Bingham and Clark.
Adjourned till afternoon.
AFTERNOON.
Met according to adjournment.
The committee on subject no. 3, presented their report, which
Was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee to whom was referred the subject of a Sta
tion at Waimea, on Hawaii, in presenting to this meeting their
report, beg leave to state, that in consequence of the feeble and
declining health of several of the members of this mission, the
�1830.3
WAIMEA.— DEPUTATION^ REPORT.
5
brethren of the mission present at Honolulu, seven in number,
met somewhere about the close of the month of October last, for
the purpose of consulting as to the expediency of sending some
of their number to explore the inland district of Waimea, on the
island of Hawaii, a region which had been highly recommend
ed for salubrity of climate; in order to ascertain whether an es
tablishment there would be practicable.
As the result of their consultation, it was recommended, that
two, at least, of their number should endeavor to make a visit to
that region, with a view to explore it thoroughly; and it was
recommended that Messrs. Judd and Chamberlain should be
the persons to go: and it was, moreover, expressed as very de
sirable that Mr. A ndrews, of the station at Lahaina, should be
added to the number; and he was accordingly written to upon
the subject, and requested to avail himself of an opportunity for
going on to Hawaii, to be joined there by the brethren from H o
nolulu. Subsequently, by the consent of the brethren^ Mr.
Greenj who had recently returned from the North W est Coast
of Afnerica, was added to the deputation.
In pursuance of the foreging steps, the deputation, thus ap
pointed, performed the duties assigned them; as will appear by
their R e p o r t ; which is as follows:
The deputation, appointed by several of the missionaries at
Honolulu in October last, and approved by those not present,
for the purpose of exploring the district of Waimea, on the isl
and of Hawaii, with the hope of-finding a place favourable to
the restoration of health in cases where it has been affected by
the influence of the hot climate of these islands; here commu
nicate the following as the result of their observations and en
quiries.
The deputation arrived at Waimea on the 2d day of Decem
ber, 1829; and resided there nearly three weeks. They residded at two different places in the district, about four miles dis
tant from each other; and from each of these places frequently
made excursions in the neighborhood, for the purpose of extend
ing their information, and comparing the local advantages of
different sections of the district.
In the meteorological observations, Kuahewa, a place up the
hill from Kailua, and Kuapeliu, back of Kaawaloa, are com
pared with Waimea.
The meteorological observations of these places are as follow?:
A2
�METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,
Commencing Dec. 2d, and ending Dec. 26th, 1829Range.
Greatest heat 1 Least heat.
A M
12
M
9 16
P M ![a m
12
9
6
12
9
6
CD
a
'■d General
12 : 9 o state of the
weather.
M
P M £
( Clear.
75
57h 9 { he’v.dew
( Rain or
6
7.0*
I thick fog
i Rain or
73
57 i 4
( cloudy
i Rain or
72i 62
4
I cloudy.
Winds.
q
M
P M A M
M
P M A M
Keaalii
56
78
62
48
72
53
8
6
9 52
Puukapu
58
74
60
50
67
57
8
7
3 54
Kuahewa
69
79
60
50
67
55
9
12
5 54i
Kuapehu
63
75
62
54
70
62
9
5
58!
I co
Or
1 .
6
H our <
(
Mean temp.
(
I
(
I
Light. Land be
sea breezes.
Light Land &
sea br. T rades
( Land and sea
\
breezes.
{
Land and sea
}
breezes.
[1830.
Note. The following is the Result of Observations, made by Mr. Bingham, at Kuahewa, from Aug. 25,
to Sept. 8,1827, the hours as above:— Greatest heat, 76; least h£at, 59; range, 17; mean temperature, 67.
That is 8 degrees less than the mean temperature for a year at Honolulu. But it appears that the mean
temperature for 4 days at Kuahewa, in Dec. is 61J, and at Keaalii and Puukapu 61J.
�1830.]
w a i m e a .—- d e p u t a t i o n ’ s
report.
1
The places where the deputation resided were at Keaalii*
situated about eleven miles, a little south of east from Kowaihae,
nearly at the summit of the table land of Waimea on the west
ern declivity; and at Puukapu, about four miles easterly from
Keaalii.
The district of Waimea is the southern part of the division of
Kohala. It is bounded on the north by the abrupt termination
of the mountains of Kohala, on the east by the division of H amakua, on the south by the mountains K ea and Hualalai, and
on the west by the sea. This district, as nearly as could be as
certained, is about 20 miles in length from east to west, and from
5 to 9 north and south.
From the sea-shore on the west the ascent is gradual the dis
tance of 11 miles; so much so that with a tolerable road, carts*
wagons, &c., could easily and safely be drawn up. This place
is called Keaalii. From this point eastwardly the distance of 6
or 8 miles, perhaps more, the land, though by no means a dead
level, is a pretty even plain; frequently interspersed with hil
locks and rising grounds, and towards the eastern part are sev
eral of considerable size.
From the eastern part of Waimea towards the sea, through
the division of Hamakua, the descent is not so great as on the
west; but is terminated at the sea by high lava precipices, some
of which are judged to be from one thousand to two thousand,
or two thousand five hundred feet.
On the supposition that the table land of Waimea is 11 miles
from the sea on the west, and the ascent is three degrees, the
perpendicular elevation will be not far from 2600 feet. This
estimate is probably within bounds, when it is considered, that
there is some considerable descent from Waimea to Waipio, a
distance of 10 or 12 miles, and that the perpendicular bluff at
Waipio is at least 2000 feet.
The general and prevailing winds are probably the Trade
Winds; though during most of the time that the deputation spent
at Waimea, the wind blew alternately from the east and the
west, or what in most other places would be called land and sea
breezes. These trade winds, however, are evidently very much
modified by distance from the sea and their passage over land
elevated much above their general influence. When the wind
is from the east it is much stronger at Puukapu than at Keaalii,
and vice versa.
The information obtained from native residents at Waimea,
respecting wind, rain and cold; is very indefinite; owing to their
�e
WAIMEA.— DEPUTATION’S REPORT.
*[1830.
having no standard by which to judge of them. M auae, an in
telligent young native, having resided there for five years, says,
“ That easterly winds are frequently strong; but not so strong
as to tear down houses. That this same wind, when it reaches
the sea at Kowaihae, is much stronger than at Keaalii, or than
any wind that blows over the table land of Waimea. That
the strongest wind that blows at that place, (Keaalii,) is called
Kona, and is from the west.” The winds so noted for violence,
called Mumuku, and which come down upon the sea at Ko
waihae and Puako, are not near as strong when passing over
the high grounds of Waimea.
It is impossible from the short period of observation, to state
particularly the various degrees of heat or cold during the year.
The meteorological table will show the degrees of heat and cold
during a few days. It is to be remarked, however, that in clear
weather the thermometer stood several degyees lower than in
cloudy; and hence, if the distinction between wet and dry sea
sons be as marked as at most other parts of the islands, there
will not be such a great range of the^thermometer as might be
expected. The cloudy wet season of winter will cause the mer
cury to rise, while the clear dry weather of summer will cause
it to fall. No signs of frost appeared in any part of the district,
though the natives say that sometimes there are frosts.
The most correct data for forming an opinion respecting the
quantity of rain that falls, is the quantity and appearance of
vegetation. It is well known to all who have travelled much on
these islands, that the growth of vegetation is luxuriant wherever
rains are frequent. At and near the sea-shore at Kowaihae and
Puako, there is no appearance of vegetation except very low
shrubs, thistles and dry looking grass. On ascending towards
the east, vegetation slowly but gradually increases; so that at
Keaalii there are found grass in considerable quantities, large
tushes, and even large trees: upland kalo and potatoes grow
well; and there is no doubt but gardens might be cultivated to
good advantage, subject perhaps to great droughts. Proceed
ing still further eastwardly, to Waikoloa, (about 2 miles,) there
is evidence of still more rain, as vegetation of all kinds indigen
ous to the islands is in abundance, and always green. The
grass is high and thick, and trees grow to the hight of from 20 to
fifty feet.
Proceeding still further to the eastward, towards Puukapu
and onward, the quantity of rain that falls is evidently greater.
The trees here are much larger, that is., from 10 to 20 or 25
•'
'
>
'
�1880.]
w a i m e a .— d e p u t a t i o n ’ s r e p o r t .
inches in diameter, and from 20 to 50 or 60 feet high. The
smaller species of vegetation, such as grass, weeds, bushes, &c.
arc tail, thick and tangled.
The rains are generally not heavy showers, but the gentle dis
tillation of clouds that run low. As these clouds come from the
east, borne by the tr ade winds, the bight of land is so great when
they leave the sea that they discharge themselves before they
reach even the western descent of Waimea. Thence proceed
ing from west to east through this district, the evidence of more
and more rain increases at every step. Still there appears no
evidence of great floods, or of great quantities of rain tailing at
any onetim e; as there evidently would be were it often the
fact. This remark applies especially to the table or level land
of Waimea. Add to this the fact that two of the streams of
Waimea, hereafter to be mentioned, pass down to the westward,
and though they are streams of considerable size when they
descend from the mountains, yet are lost long before they
reach the sea, which would not be the case if they were frequent
ly replenished with heavy rains falling upon the level lands of
this district.
When the rain first appears at Puukapu it has the appearance
of a thick dense fog. This comes on generally between the
hours of 12 and 1 in the day, and continues until 4 or 5 in the
afternoon, when it clears off. This fog does not always produce
rain, nor does the fog appear every day. There is less of it at
the south side of Waimea, much less both of fog and wind at
Waikoloa, and still less at Keaalii.
The reason, therefore, why the thermometer is lower at K e
aalii than at Puukapu, is owing to the greater frequency and den
sity of clouds, as the thermometer always stood lower in clear
than in cloudy weather. It could not be ascertained, however,
with any degree of certainty, that rains are more frequent at one
part of the year than another.
Besides the rains just mentioned, there are three streams of
water running through parts of this district, each of them suf
ficiently large to propel machinery equal to two horse power.
These streams descend from the mountains on the north; one
at Keaalii, one at Waikoloa and one at Puukapu. T he one at
Keaalii is a rapid stream, of a rocky bottom; and as soon asil
reaches the plain which is just below the height of land on the
western declivity, it turns to the westward, and within a distance
of four or five miles is entirely absorbed, except when great
rains fall upon the mountains, in which case it sometimes per-
�10
WAIMEA.— DEPUTATION’S REPORT.
[18S0.
haps reaches the sea. This stream is evidently at times high
and rapid, as appears from grass, reeds, leaves, &c., left on the
margin, or lodged against the larger brushwood and rocks with
in the bed of the stream.
The stream at Waikoloa is perhaps generally as large or larger
than the one at Keaalii; though the former has no appearance
of being suddenly or greatly affected by rains from the moun
tains. On reaching the plain it runs southwardly some distance,
then turns to the westward nearly parallel, but some distance
to the south of the stream at Keaalii, and like it is lost long be
fore it reaches the sea. Its flow is very gentle while it contin
ues on the table land, not unlike the streams that pass through
the meadow lands of New England.
The stream at Puukapu is very similar (o the one at Waiko
loa. Perhaps if there be any difference there is more water.
After coming down upon the plain it turns to the east, and pro
bably empties into the sea in some part of Hamakua.
It is to be observed, that the influence of these streams is con
fined to the northern part of Waimea; so that if a line were
drawn from east to west through this .district, separating that part
which might be watered from these streams from those parts
which are entirely dependant on the raiiis, perhaps four-fifths would be without any permanent water. W hether water can
be obtained by digging must remain for future experiment.
The growth of wood, either for fuel or timber, is abundant on
the eastern part of Waimea, or still nearer on the mountains
bordering this district on the north. Timber for native buildings
could be easily obtained, and even timber for frames would not
be difficult. Stones are plenty a little below the surface of the
ground, as appears from the long stone walls built to confine the
wild cattle to the southern part of the district. .
The present state of land cultivation is very similar to every
part of the island. Little or nothing is done by the people ex
cept to provide for their present necessities; but this land might
be made the garden of the islands. On this subject, however,
the deputation cannot go into detail. Suffice it to say, that large
fields might easily be prepared for the plough, and made to wave
with productions fitted for the food of man and beast. All the
necessaries and many of the luxuries of life might be easily
produced.
It is well known that large herds of wild cattle range the south
part of this district, but frequently come to the north side for
water Some of these might be domesticated, and made scr~
�WAIMEA.— ’DEPUTATION S REPORT.
11
vieeable to the inhabitants; and horses also might easily he
kept, and made to add extensively to their comfort and conven
ience.
The present population must be considerable, though for the
want of water it is mostly confined to the northern part. The
congregations on the Sabbath amounted to live or six hundred,
though it was said the men were all absent from home cutting
sandal wood. The probability is that a congregation of from
1000 to 1500 might be collected every sabbath, if there were
regular preaching. These people appeared anxious for in
struction, and desirous that Missionaries should come and live
with them.
Two roads might be made to this place; one from Kowaihae,
the other from Puako. The former rout is two or three miles
nearer; but the expense of making a good wagon road would be
considerably greater than the other. The principal obstruc
tions consist in large loose stones, but in general not difficult to
be removed with good levers. A good road from Puako to
Keaalii could easily be made.
It will be observed, that the foregoing remarks have been
confined to the northern section of this district. It was early
discovered, that the southern parts were destitue of running
water; and there being no evidence that water could be pro
cured by digging, it was thought unnecessary to examine a
country so deficient in that essential article.
It should not be concealed, that the deputation think from all
they have been able to learn, from natives, and foreigners who
have frequently passed through this district, that they were at
Waimea in a very favourable time; that is, when there were less
rain and wind than usual. But this cannot be decided with
certainty, without an actual residence at the place.
Should an establishment be made, either at Keaalii, Waikoloa or Puukapu, the natural scenery is of a kind the most inter
esting, partaking of the grand and beautiful. On the north and
near at hand rise the almost perpendicular, lofty, but ever verd
ant hills of Kohala. On the south east, south and south west,*
M auna Kea, Mauna Loa and Hualalai; the two former raising
their summits to the clouds, and generally covered with snow,
present a prospect with which the eye is not soon satisfied.
From the elevations at Waikoloa and Puukapu, the whole dis
trict appears spread out, exhibiting gentle undulations, groves
of trees, here and there a house amidst luxuriant verdure and
distant herds of cattle feeding on the extensive plain. These
�WAIMEA.— COMMITTEE’ S REPORT.
[1830.
prospects, occasionally obscured or rendered unpleasant by fogs,
clouds, winds and rain, and again bursting ' th with all their
distant and varied beauty, must constitute those grateful vicissi
tudes so agreeable to men generally, and especially to those ac
customed to the changes of a northern climate.
In conclusion, after all the information they could collect,
united with personal observation, the deputation are unanimous
in the opinion, that considering the debilitating miiuence of the
hot climate of these islands upon the constitutions and health of
many of the Missionaries; and that in order to prevent a pre
mature death they are liable to be sent from this field of labour;
there are sufficient inducements for making a thorough trial of
the 1* trsct of Waimea, as a place of residence highly favourable
to the recovery of health, comfort and usefulness of those who
may resort to it; and that a station there would be connected
with the moral and spiritual interests of an interesting portion
of these islands.
Of the expediency of taking a station at Waimea, at this or
any other time, under any circumstances, the deputation here do
not express an opinion. They leave this for the general meet
ing of the Missionaries and their patrons in America to decide.
All which is respectfully submitted,
] o r r in A n d r e w s ,
J o n a t h a n S. G r e e n ,
L e v i C h a m b e r l a in ,
G e r r it P . J u d d .
Lahaina, Jan. 9, 1830.
Wherefore Resolved,
•
1. That we deem it expedient to attempt an establishment for
invalids.
2. That in view of the climate, soil, population, and other ad
vantages of Waimea, on Hawaii, we deem that district the most
eligible of any place within our information for such an estab
lishment.
* 3. That it be recommended to Doct. Judd and Mr. Ruggles
to go to Waimea immediately and commence an establishment,
and that Mr. Bingham also be recommended to join them as
soon as convenient.
All which is respectfully submitted.
L o r r in A n d r e w s ,
}
G e r r i t P. J c d d ,
>
L e v i C h a m b e r l a in , )
Committeq*
�PRINTING.
AID TO HILO.
IS
The committee on subject no. 7, presented their, report, which
was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to report upon the Subject of print
ing, beg leave to submit the following resolutions.
1.
Resolved, that we deem it highly important that the busi
ness of printing should be prosecuted with vigor; and that the
superintendence of the department be entrusted to a committee
of three, whose duty it shall be, to provide all the necessary
means for printing, decide what shall be put to press, read proofsheet^, and in case of failure in the supply of any matter previ
ously assigned, to make new arrangements for a supply, and to
examine and direct in respect to any matter to be printed not
previously assigned by the mission.
c2. Resolved, that in order to facilitate the work of printing,
no manuscript shall be sent to the department to be put in type,
until the work be fully completed and corrected.
3.
Resolved, that a proof, when it shall have been read by
any two of the committee may be put to press, without its having
been read by the third.
All which is respectfully submitted.
L o r r in A n d r e w s , }
E . W. C l a r k ,
>
S teph en S h epard , )
Committee.
Adjourned till 7 o’clock in the evening.
EVENING.
M et according to adjournment.
The committee on subject no. 4, presented their report, which
Was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee on the subject of affording aid to the station
at Hilo, beg leave to recommend the adoption of the following
resolution, viz.
*
Resolved, that in view of the pressing claims of the popula
tion of Hilo and its vicinity, and the earnest request of Mr.
Goodrich to have assistance, we deem it the sacred duty of the
Mission to attempt to strengthen that station, by the aid of an
additional laborer. Respectfully submitted.
H . B in g h a m ,
}
J. S G r e e n ,
> Committee.
L e v i C h a m b e r l a in , )
The committee on subject no. 5, presented their report, which
was accepted, and is as follows:
�14
MR. GREEN’S LOCATION.
NORTH WEST COAST.
[ 1 8 -3 0 .
The committee to whom was referred the subject of Mr.
Green’s location, beg leave to report, that, as there are various
dn * idties in tMe way of immediately fixing his location, they
recommend the adoption of the following resolution, viz:
Resolved, that Mr. Green be recommended to choose his res
idence, with reference to engaging most advantageously in the
study of the language, preaching to the people, and aiding the
work of translating; it being understood, that himself, and the
brethren with whom he is associated, be considered as responsi
ble tor the supply of an additional laborer at Hilo till the next
general meeting. Respectfully submitted,
H . B in g h a m , )
I . A n d r e w s , > Committee.
E . W. C l a r k , )
Adjourned.
Meeting closed with prayer by Mr. Andrews.
W edn esd ay ,
Jan.
20.
Met at 8 o’clock, A. M. Meeting opened with prayer by
Mr. Green.
The reports of the standing committees being called for by
the moderator,
The standing committee on the subject of a Mission to the
North W est Coast of America, presented their report, which
was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee to whom was referred the subject of exploring
the North West Coast of America, with reference to the estab
lishment of a mission on that coast, agreeably to the suggestions
of the American Board, beg leave to report:
1. That in February last, in accordance with the advice of
your committee, Rev. J. S. Green, the person designated to that
service at the last general meeting of the Mission, took passage
on board the Bark Volunteer, as an agent for investigating
the moral condition of the inhabitants of said coast -, that he re
mained onboard the Volunteer till the following November; vis
ited different parts of the coast, and gleaned all the information
in his power; that the results of this agency, embodied in the
form of a report, have been sent to the Prudential Committee;
and that the expense of the agency, amounting to five hundred
and ten dollars, has been paid by the treasurer of this Mission.
2, That after hearing the report of the agent, the committee
�1 8 3 0 .]
ANNUAL REPORT.
JESUITS.
15
are of opinion, that the indications of providence in regard to the
immediate establishment of a mission on the North West Coast,
are not sufficiently plain to warrant this Mission in taking any
direct step in reference to this subject, till, at least, the views of
the Prudential Committee, after receiving the report of the
agency already performed, shall be ascertained.
Respectfully submitted,
H . B in g h a m , }
E . W. C l a r k , > Committee,
J. S. G r e e n , )
The standing committee on the subject of the annual report
to the Board, of the state of the Mission, presented their report,
which was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to write the Annual Report to the
Board, of the state of the Mission, report, That the Report was
written and sent at the time appointed.
L . A n d r e w s , > Committee.
W. R i c h a r d s , )
The standing committee on the subject of the Jesuits, pre
sented their report, which was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to inquire into the objects of the
Jesuits now at this Island, and make out a communication for the
information of the Board, beg leave to state, that they have at
tended diligently to the business assigned them. They have made
inquiries respecting the number, the operations and the prospect**
of the Jesuits; and have made out and forwarded a communica
tion to the Board, stating the time and manner of their arrival,
their number, their occupations, their efforts to teach the people,
their prospects, See. together with their own solicitude respecting
them. Your committee have beheld with no small anxiety the
increasing efforts of these Jesuits to proselyte the people, and
regret to state, that they have drawn away a few who have been
under the special instruction of the mission, and have admitted
a considerable number to baptism. The Jesuits have been,
however, steadily frowned upon by the Chiefs, and have recently
been forbidden to proselyte, and the people have been forbidden
to attend upon their instructions.
The committee would earnestly recommend to the meeting
to determine upon the course, which the Mission as a body and
as individuals should pursue in relation to this dangerous sect.
All which is respectfully submitted,
H. B i n g h a m ,
}
E. W. C l a r k ,
\ Committee.
L e v i C h a m b e r l a in , )
�IG
PRINTING.---- SUPPLY o r PAPER AND TYPE.
[1 8 3 0 .
The standing committee on the subject of the future supply of
paper, type, ink, See., presented their report, which was accept
ed, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to consider and report 011 th best
method of securing a supply of paper, type, ink, binding instru
ments,and other materials for book-making,adequate to the future
wants of the nation, report, That no method has as yet been
fixed upon, and no efficient effort has been made, for securing a
permanent supply of the above mentioned articles.
The committee are of opinion, however, that paper and type
can be manufactured at these islands; and that it will be for the
prosperity of the Mission, and the benefit of the people, that a
tiu n of operations, preparatory to such manufactures, be com
menced as soon as practicable.
The reasons for the foregoing opinion are, the increasing de
mands of the people for books; the delays attending a want of
paper and type; the smallness or the disproportion of sorts, of the
fonts received, which by constant use are soon worn out; the cost
and transportation of these articles from America; the employ
ment, it will give to many natives, and the consequent incitement
it will occasion to industry among the people.
The committee, therefore, recommend that a correspondence
be opened immediately with the Board, or with enterprising in
dividuals in our country, respecting the expense and best method
of carrying on the above mentioned business.
H .
T
L.
B in g h a m , ) ^
...
A
5 > Committee.
A n d rew s, )
The standing committee for the superintendence of the print*
mg department, presented their report, which was accepted, and
is as follows:
The committee appointed at the last general meeting of the
Mission, to superintend the press, to provide types, ink, paper,
&c., for the department, to correct and revise proof sheets, and
to see that a supply of matter should be seasonably furnished the
printer, beg leave now, at the expiration of their term of service,
to submit the following report.
1.
The materials on hand April 15th, 1828, consisted chiefly
of 76 reams of demy paper, and 60 of foolscap; type and ink sup
posed to be adequate to our purpose for one year. During the
period of their service, 137 reams of Chinese demy have been
procured from Canton, at about $3 20 a ream; and 550 reams
Dutch foolscap, purchased at Honolulu, at about $2 50 a ream
�i 030. j
PRINTING.---- WORK EXECUTED, &C.
1?
with the advance of 20 per cent, on bills on the Board, and 24
reams of Chinese foolscap at $1 50 a ream; and 392 reams of
American demy, at $3 00 a ream, with 12i per cent, freight,
have been received directly from the Board; making an aggre
gate of 1239 reams, valued at cost at $3818 00.
2.
During the period of their agency they have superintend
ed the printing of the following works:
128,000 pages;
16,000 copies,
4th sheet of Joseph,
360,000 u
4th 5th do. Hymns, 10,000 “
1,080,000 cc
10,000 “
4th Edition of do.
600,000 cc
10,000 “
5 forms of Luke,
160,000 Cc
20,000
“
Spelling-book,
168,000 cc
21,000 “
Appendix to do.
80,000 cc
1 form of Luke,
. 10,000 “
80,000 cc
10,000 “
1 do. Genesis,
640,000 cc
5 i ~3 do. Acts,
10,000 “
1,120,000 cc
7 forms Exo. & Lev. 10,000 “
1,040,000 cc
10,000 “
7 do. Genesis,
30,000 cc
3,000 “
1 do. Luke,
5,486,000 cc
Also, several handbills, for the merchants; the proclamation of
the King, in English and Hawaiian; the communication from the
Secretary of the United States’ Navy to the King of the Sand
wich Islands, in English and Hawaiian; and the address of Capt,
Finch to the King and Chiefs, also in English and Hawaiian.
The pages of these various works, together with 62 pages
now in press, have been revised and corrected by the commit
tee, who, generally, have given two readings to three several
proof sheets of every portion of the work that has been carried
through the press.
3. The following is a summary of expenses during this period i
C Foolscap,
192 reams, ‘$576 00
439 20
Paper used < Canton demy, 137
435 33-1450 53
f American do. 129
32 00
Ink, estimated at 64 lbs. ~
$ 20 50
Composition,
395 02
Press work,
Folding,
- 133 40
23 55—577 47
Stiching,
*
91 28
Contingencies,
~
$2151 29
�18
PRINTING.— MATERIALS NEEDED.
PERCIVAL.
[1830.
4.
Ink on hand, 185 lbs. supposed to be more than sufficient for
our purpose till the next general meeting, though most of it is
poor. The type in the office may be relied on, as a matter of ne
cessity,for the contemplated work of the present year, as an Eng
lish font of 207 lbs. has been recently received; though most of
the type in the office will soon be too much worn to do work well.
The committee have applied to the Board for an immediate
supply of a font of 600 lbs. of Long Primer, with a view to be in
readiness for printing the New Testament as a whole. They
have proposed also that the Board should send Pica and Small
Pica for tracts, and a few pounds of a variety of type for titlepages, headings, &c. They have also suggested to the Board
the expediency of sending a font of 2500 lbs. or sufficient to
print 1:0,000 copies of the entire Bible.
The committee are of opinion, that the progress of transla
tions, the demand of the people for books, and the facility with
which Mr. Shepard, with native help, can carry forward the
business of printing, will require annually, at least 600 reams of
paper, 500 lbs. of new type, and 50 lbs. of ink. This amount of
stock, it is to be understood, would be required to keep one press
in constant operation; but it is hoped the means will ere long
be furnished adequate for Uvo.
Respectfully submitted,
H . B in g h a m , > C o m m itte e .
E. W. C l a r k , J
The standing committee on the subject of collecting evidence
in regard to the conduct of Lieut. Percival, presented their re
port, which was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to collect evidence in regard to the
conduct of Lieut. Percival, while at the Islands, agreeably to
the request of the Corresponding Secretary of the Board, and to
make out a communication for the use of the Board, beg leave
to state that they have attended to the business assigned to them.
Two of their number had an interview at Honolulu, some
time in the month of June, 1828, with Kaahumanu, in the pres
ence of Opiia and Kekauluohe, to elicit from her a statement
of facts relative to the conduct of Lieut. Percival, while at the
Islands; the result of which was communicated to the Corres
ponding Secretary of the Board', in a letter dated June 12th,
1828, a copy of which is herewith submitted.
In the month of August following, two of the committee, (one
of whom was present when the enquiries were made of Kaahu
manu at Honolulu, and the other was not,) had an interview
�1830.}
PERCIVAL.
JOINT LETTER.
with Bold, at Lahaina, upon the same subject, and obtained
from him a statement of iacts, which was taken down by an
amanuensis in his own language, and was by himself subscribed
in the presence of two competent native witnesses, and by them
attested; which document was translated into English by one
of the committee, and with a letter of explanation was forwarded
to the Corresponding Secretary of the Board : a copy of which
is now in the hands of one ol the committee at Lahaina.
During the visit of the Vincennes, Kaahumanu made out a
statement of facts, relative to the conduct of Lieut. Percival,
which wras translated by one of the committee, and forwarded
by the King and Chiefs to the IS avy Department, as an official
complaint against the commander of the Dolphin.
The committee have also diligently sought to collect informa
tion on the subject, by various inquries, and by a thorough in*
spection of their own journals and minutes, and have pfe pared
statements as full as was in their power, separately; sealed them,
and made oath to the facts stated, in the presence of the Ameri
can Consul, and forwarded them to the Board; and have, more
over, given their deliberate judgment on the prominent pointe
connected with the subject of the tabu and the violation of it by
Percival and his crew.
The committee have since learned, by an officer in the United
States’ Navy, that Percival has been reprimanded by the Presi
dent; and they have been happy to see that the Government of
the United States has d is t in c t ly signified to the King and Chiefs
its decided disapprobation of such conduct as was charged to
Percival and the crew of the Dolphin.
Respectfully submitted,
L.
C h a m b e r la in ,
\
C o n m ,it t e e '
The standing committe to write the joint letter, presented their
report, which was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to write the joint letter for the last
general meeting, would simply report, That the duty assigned
was performed in due season, and the letter forwarded to the
Board in the name of the Mission.
Respectfully submitted,
H . B i n g h a m , Committee.
On motion, voted, that a committee of two be appointed, te»
correspond with the Board, and with gentlemen acquainted with
�‘20
QAMUT AND TUNES.
TRANSLATIONS,
(1830.
the general subject of music, respecting the publication of a
gamut and tunes adapted to Christian worship in the Sandwich
Islands. Chose Messrs. Richards and Judd.
The committee on subject no. 6, presented their report, which
was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed on the subject of translations, beg
leave to recommend tor the ensuing year;
1. That Messrs. Bingham and Clark be requested to translate
50 of the Psalms, that is, from the 25th to the 75th; and also to
translate from the New Testament the Epistles Colossians, First
and Second Thessalonians, First and Second Timothy, Titus,
Philemon and Hebrews.
2. That Messrs. Richards and Andrews be requested to revise
the trait of Joseph, and prepare a new tract from Joshua; also
to translate the Epistles James, First and Second of Peter, First,
Second and Third of John, Jude and the book of Revelations.
3. That Messrs. Thurston and Bishop be requested to trans
late the Epistles First and Second Corinthians, Galatians and
Phiiippians; also to prepare a tract from Numbers and D eu
teronomy.
4. That Messrs. Thurston and Bishop be appointed to review
the translations of Messrs. Bingham and Clark.
5. That. Messrs. Richards and Andrews be appointed to re
view the translations of Messrs. Thurston and Bishop.
6. That Messrs Bingham and Clark be appointed to review
the translations of Messrs. Richards and Andrews,
7. The committee further recommend, that the authors of the
several translations either superintend the printing of their trans
lations in person, or that they be held accountable for the cor
rectness of the manuscripts which they furnish for publication.
8. The committee recommend, that Mr. Bingham be request
ed to proceed with the Historical Catechism, and the First
Book for children.
9. That Messrs. Whitney and Gulick be requested to pre
pare a Geography, and a tract on experimental religion; and
that Messrs. Richards and Andrews review the above Geogra
phy and tract.
10. That Mr. Richards be appointed to prepare a gamut and
tunes adapted to sacred music for the Sandwich Islands.
11. That Messrs. Thurston and Bishop prepare a new Arith
metic.
�1830.]
GENERAL MEETINGS.
12.
The committee recommend the same rotation in the revie
f the elementary works as in the translations.
All which is respectfully submitted,
L o r r in A n d r e w s . )
S. W h i t n e y ,
> Committee.
H.
B in g h a m ,
)
Tlie moderator called for the ballots for the committee recon>
Diended to superintend the printing department.
Chose Messrs. Bingham, Clark and Richards.
T he committee on subject no. 11, presented their report, which
was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee on the subject of general meetings, beg leave
to report the following resolutions.
1. That a general meeting be held annually, and that the time
and place be fixed upon at the previous meeting; provided, how
ever, that if the members of any station shall think that the time
or place or both should be altered, they have liberty to suggest
the same to the standing secretary, and he, with the approba
tion of a majority of the mission, shall make the alteration, and
give seasonable notice of the same to the members of the several
stations.
2. That those who receive appointments at one general meet
ing, shall make report at the next respecting the fulfilment of
them; and those who are unable to attend shall, nevertheless,
forward their written report.
3. That the general agent be required to report at each meet*
ing whether the several members of the mission act up to the
requirements of the mission in giving in their accounts and an
nual reports to him.
4. That we deem it exceedingly desirable that as many mem
bers of the mission as possible be present at each general meet
ing; and that we as members of stations pledge ourselves that
our several stations shall, if possible, be represented at every
meeting of the Mission, and if impossible, the reason shall be
stated in writing to the meeting.
5. That for the purpose of having regular records of all im
portant business, transacted by the mission, we deem it proper
that the general meeting require of each station a full report
�22
RECORDS.
APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEES.
[1830.
rr :■ 1;
i- ' -ant measures, which may be adopted by
its
m
;j
the general interests of the Mission.
Respectfully submitted,
E. W. C l a r k ,
Committee.
J. S. G r e e n ,
L e v i C h a m b e r l a in ,
On motion, voted, that the next general meeting be held at
Lahaina, in the first week of June, 1831.
The committee on subject no. 13, presented their report^.
Which was accepted, and is as follows:
Resolved, That all records and accounts of past transactions
of the mission be deposited in the hands of the standing secre
tary. Submitted.
G. P. J u d d ,
)
L e v i C h a m b e r l a i n , > Committee.
E. W. C l a r k ,
)
On Subject No. 15th— On motion, voted, that a committee
of three be appointed to prepare the annual report to the Beard,
of the progress and state of the Mission.
Chose Messrs. Bingham, Andrews and Clark.
On 16th—On motion, voted, that a committee of three be
appointed to write a joint letter, embracing the principal trans
actions of this meeting and reply to letters from the Board.
Chose Messrs. Green, Chamberlain and Whitney.
On 17th to 24th inclusive— On motion, voted, that a commit
tee of three be appointed, to designate individuals to write the fol
lowing letters, recommended *by the committee of overtures, viz.
A letter to the American Bible Society;
ditto.
American Tract Society;
*
American Seaman’s Friend Society, on the
ditto.
subject of a mission to the Port of Honolulu;
ditto.
Secretary of the United States’ Navy;
ditto.
London Missionary Society;
Society of Inquiry on the Subject of Missions
ditto.
at Andover, Mass.
ditto.
Princeton, N. J.
ditto.
ditto.
*
Auburn, N. Y.
ditto.
Rev. C S. Stewart, in answer to his addressed
ditto.
to the Mission.
Chose Messrs. Andrews, Green and Whitney,
Adjourned.
�1830.]
JESUITS.
DISPOSAL OF BOOKS, &C.
T hu r sd a y ,
M et at 10 o’clock, A. M.
Mr. Clark.
Jan. 21.
Meeting opened with prayer by
* *
The committee on subject no. 10, [Jesuits—What course shall
be recommended respecting them?]—presented their report,
which was read, and ordered to lie on the table.
The committee on subject no. 8, presented their report, which
was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee on the disposal of books, and the manner of
accounting for them, beg leave to submit the following resolu
tions, viz.
, 1. Resolved, that it is not expedient to charge the original cost
of native books to the stations; but that it is expedient that a
particular account should be kept at the several stations of the
manner in which they have been employed or disposed of; to
gether with the value of the same; in order that the amount may
be passed to the credit of the printing department.
2. Resolved, that it shall be the duty of each station, on the
30th day of April annually, being the day on which the accounts,
of the mission are closed, to make out a statement of the manner
in which books have, during the year, been disposed of, and
this statement shall include the number of the books, and their
value to the station, as nearly as can be ascertained.
in making out this account, it shall be specilied in separate
particulars, viz.
1.
The value of all articles of provisions received from the
natives and expended in the familes;
,2. All other articles received from natives, expended or on
hand;
:
3. All articles of general support, whether of food, articles of
comfort or convenience, furniture or apparel, obtained from tra
ders for the avails of books;
4. Cash;
7. Buildings;
5. Fuel;
8. Fences;
6. W ater;
9. Tabor;
t
10. Miscellanies, including all things not enumerated in the
foregoing particulars.
3. Resolved, that four-twelfths of the books nowr assigned to
�24
COMMITTEES TO WRITE LETTERS.
[1830.
b .aa, be at the disposal of those who shall reside at Waimea
for the use of the schools in Kohala and Hamakua.
Respectfully submitted,
S . W h it n e y ,
)
II. B i n g h a m ,
> Committee.
L e v i C h a m b e r l a in , )
The committee on subject no. 9, presented their report, which
was discussed at considerable length : the meeting not agreeing
in the views of the committee, and the motion for acceptance
having been withdrawn; on motion, it was voted, that the com
mittee be discharged.
On motion, voted, that the choice of the committee to super
intend the printing department be reconsidered.
A new election was made.
Chose Messrs. Bingham, Clark, and Chamberlain.
The committee on subject nos. 17 to 24 inclusive, presented
their report, which was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to designate individuals to write
certain letters recommended by the committee of overtures, pro
pose the following:
To the American Bible Society,
J. S. Green;
“
American Tract Society, & >
w
f
“
Rev. C S. Stewart,
]
w . m cnaras,
u . American Seaman’s Friend So.
S. Whitney ;
Secretary of the U. S. Navy, & )
j j Bingham;
Jxmdon Missionary bociety,
)
n
Society of Inquiry, Andover, Mass. A. Thurston;
ditto.
Princeton, N. J. L. Andrews;
ditto.
Auburn, N, Y. E . W. Clark,
Respectfully submitted,
S. W h i t n e y ,
L . A DREWS,
d r e w s , > Committee.
J . S, G r e e n ;
The committee on subject no. 12, presented their report,
which was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to consider the subject of general
letters, beg leave to report., that
W hereas: the Board require us to inform them frequently
and particularly respecting the state of the mission, that we com-
�1830.]
GENERAL LETTERS.
ply with their request as far as is consistent with our multiplied
avocations.
1. Resolved, that it be the duty of the stations, not only to for
ward letters from the stations to the Board, but also to make
reports to the general meeting annually.
2. Resolved, that it be the duty of the general meeting to ap
point a committee to draught a report to the Board, which shall
be prepared before the general meeting be dissolved.
3. Resolved, that copies of all letters sent by order of the
general meeting be kept and lodged with the standing secretary.
All which is respectfully submitted.
L o r r in A n d r e w s , 1
S. W h i t n e y ,
> Committee.
E . W. C l a r k ,
)
On Subject No. 25th— On motion, voted, that the subject of
rules respecting the use of ardent spirits, be referred to a com
mittee of three.
Chose Messrs. Bingham, Green and Judd.
On 26th— On motion, voted, that the subject of the disposal
of books auxiliary to translations, &c., be referred to a commit
tee of three.
Chose Messrs. Andrews, Bingham and Green.
On 27th— On motion, voted, that the subject u What new
measures shall be adopted to forward the preparation of native
teachers to be preachers of the Gospel to their countrymen,” be
referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs. Andrews, Clark and Whitney.
On 29th— On motion, voted, that the subject of principles of
intercourse with the chiefs, be referred to a committee of three.
Chose Messrs. Bingham, Andrews and Whitney.
Adjourned till 9 o’clock to-morrow morning.
F r id a y ,
Jan.
22.
Met according to adjournment. Meeting opened with pray
er by the Secretary.
The committee on subject no. 25, presented their report, which
was'accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to report on the question, u What
rules shall be adopted respecting ardent spirits, as it relates to
ourselves, our pupils, and our visitors?” submit the following res
olutions :
C
�26
ARDENT SPIRITS.
[1830.
1. That, occupying, as we do, a station pre-eminently elevat
ed and responsible; being “ set for the defence of the Gospel,”
made a “ spectacle to angels and to men,” and the “ living epis
tle of Christ to the heathen;” we feel constrained by the most
sacred obligations to stand foremost in the ranks of those who
would reclaim &vicious, and purify a polluted world; and we do,
therefore, cheerfully resolve to take a high stand in Christian
morals, to u avoid the very appearance of evil,” and, as much as
in us lies, to keep ourselves “ unspotted from the world.”
2. Resolved, that we do sincerely rejoice in the success with
which a merciful God is crow-ning the efforts made by Christians
and Ministers of the Gospel in our own country to check the
progress of intemperance; and we cordially pledge ourselves to
co-operate with them, though in another field, that if possible,
we may stay the plague, wThich is seizing upon the vitals, and
consuming the heart’s blood of some of the happiest communi
ties on earth.
*
3. That, aware of the force of example, and alive to the ne
cessity of employing vigorous measures to counteract evils of
alarming extent and tendency, we do cheerfully resolve, that
we will wholly abstain from the use of ardent spirits of every
kind; and that, excepting as a medicine prescribed by a temper
ate physician, we will banish the polluted thing from our houses.
4. Resolved, that we view with deep regret the widening and
deepening streams of liquid poison which are turned upon these
Islands; and which, more terrible than the floods of lava which
sometimes rush from their mountains, we fear will yet sweep
away some of the strongest barriers to the introduction of vice
and misery, which by the blessing of God, we have here erect
ed; and wre pledge ourselves that we will labor, both by exam
ple and precept , to beget and strengthen in the minds of all en
joying our instructions, a full aversion to this bane of present
prosperity and endless happiness.
5. Resolved, that we distinctly assure our pupils that no man
w^ho habitually uses ardent spirits, in any quantity,however small,
excepting as prescribed by a physician, and that no man who
engages, in any way, in distilling or vending ardent spirits, can
be a candidate for the ordinances of God’s house.
6. That we may not incur the woe of those wrho u build a
town with blood,” and that we may not be accessory to the sins
of other men, we resolve that we will never afford to laborers
whom we may employ, the means of intoxication; that we will
not provide ardent spirits for visitors, whether foreign or native;
�1 8 3 0 .]
TRANSLATING AND PRINTING FOR THE CHIEFS.
27
and th a t we will scrupulously avoid setting before them wine,
excepting in cases of so peculiar a nature as to induce the belief
that the glory of God, and the promotion of his cause, will be se
cured in a higher degree than by withholding it.
. Respectfully submitted,
The committee on subject no. 14, presented their report,which
was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee to whom was referred the subject of translat
ing and printing for the King and Chiefs, beg leave to present
the following resolutions;
1. Resolved, that we approve of printing such articles for
them a s may a p p e a r l i k e l y to be useful or not repugnant to the
interests of c iv iliz a t io n a n d C h r is tia n ity .
2, Resolved, that all documents from the King and Chiefs, to
be translated or printed, be at the disposal of the committee on
printing, except in cases of translations which may occur when
the said committee are not present.
Respectfully submitted,
The committee on subject no. 26, presented their report,which
was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee to whom was referred the disposal of books
auxiliary to translations, and recent publications, extremely re
gret that the materials that come within their agency are so ex
ceedingly scanty that little can be done on the subject: but to
make the best of a little, with the hope of gaining more, they
beg leave to recommend that those who have translations of
Scriptures assigned them be requested to agree among them
selves, on a method of distribution and exchange of the books
relative to translations, so as best to facilitate the works in hand;
and that such other recent publications as are sent to the Mis
sion shall be divided among the stations, provided there are as
many copies as stations: but as to publications of which but one
or two copies are sent to the Mission, the agent and each mem
ber into whose hands they may come, shall feel bound to give
�INTERCOURSE WITH THE CHIEFS.
[1830.
(hem a quick circulation, until they have visited the several sta
tions and families, and returned to the agent.
Respectfully submitted,
H . B in g h a m , }
L. A n d r e w s , > Committee.
J. S. G r e e n , )
The committee on subject no. 27, presented their report,
which was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to consider what new measures shall
be adopted to forward the preparation of native teachers so as
to become preachers of the Gospel to their countrymen, report
the following resolutions;
1. That from the scantiness of books in the native language
for their necessary instruction, and the constant employment of
the Missionaries, little at present can be done to forward the in
structions of natives so as to constitute them competent teachers
of religion. Nevertheless,
2. W e consider it highly important that at each station there
be selected a class of such as exhibit the most promising talents,
and that they receive more of our attention and instruction than
others, with the view of bringing some of them forward in due
time to be preachers of the Gospel.
Respectfully submitted,
L o r r in A n d r e w s , }
S. W h i t n e y ,
>
E. W . C l a r k ,
)
Committee,
The committee on subject no. 29, presented their report,
which was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee to whom was referred the subject of princi
ples of intercourse with the Chiefs, beg leave to submit the fol
lowing resolutions, viz:
1. Resolved, that we regard the resolutions of the Mission,
adopted by the general meeting at Kailua, in 1826, as strictly
according with the tenure of our instructions from the Pruden
tial Committee of the Board, and as expressive of our sentiments
on the subject of giving advice to the Chiefs.
2. Resolved, that in the case of Capt. Clark, of the John
Palmer, and Hoapili, Governor of Maui, we are satisfied that
the course which Mr. Richards pursued was no violation of
those resolutions,
3. Resolved, that as those resolutions have been submitted
�1830.]
LAEOR AMONG FOREIGNERS.
to the Board, for their approval or disapproval, and are supposed
to be approved by the Prudential Committee, we have good rea
son to believe that a full statement of the case from Mr. Richards
will satisfy the Board that his course in the case in question was
justifiable.
Respectfully submitted,
The moderator called for the ballots for the committee recom
mended in the report for providing paper, type, &,c.
Chose Messrs. Bingham, Andrews and Clark.
On subject no. 23— On motion, voted, that the subject of la
bor among foreigners at Honolulu, be referred to a committee
o f three.
Chose Messrs. Green, Whitney and Bingham.
On motion, voted, that a corrected copy of the minutes of this
meeting be printed for the use of the different stations, and that
this supercede the joint letter to the Board.
On motion, voted, that the annual report, to be made out be
fore the close of this meeting, giving an account of the state and
progress of the Mission, be printed, together with as much from
the minutes of this meeting as shall be regarded suitable to be
made public.
On motion, voted, that a committee of three be appointed to
give advice to the members of this station, respecting the labors
of English Missionaries, should any arrive before another gen
eral meeting.
Chose Messrs. Whitney, Andrews and Green.
Adjourned till half past 2 o’clock this afternoon.
AFTERNOON.
Met according to adjournment.
The committee on subject no. 28, presented their re port, which
was accepted, and is as follows:
C 2
�30
ENGLISH MISSIONARIES.
[1 8 3 0 .
The committee to whom was referred the subject of Mission
ary labor among the foreigners, beg leave to submit the following
report in the form of resolutions, viz.
1. Resolved, that deference to the wishes of the Board, oppor
tunities of usefulness among resident foreigners and seamen,and
benevolence to our fellow men who are cast as it were upon the
flood of waters without provision for their spiritual wants, require
that efforts should continue to be made for their salvation, by
the distribution of Bibles, tracts, &c., and by the maintenance
of a divine service on the Sabbath.
2. That it appears desirable that preaching in English should
be maintained during the season of the principal shipping; but
the pressing claims of other Missionary work are such as scarce
ly to admit of more.
.
3. Resolved, that with the approbation of the Board, we in
vite the attention of the American Seaman’s Friend Society to
this field, with the hope that they will effectually relieve us from
this part of our Missionary work.
Respectfully submitted,
H . B in g h a m , }
S. W h i t n e y , > Committee.
J. S. G r e e n , )
The committee appointed to give advice to the members of
this station, in relation to the labors of English Missionaries,
presented their report, which was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to frame resolutions in regard to
measures proper to be adopted by this Mission, in lespect to
English Missionaries, should they arrive at these Islands previ
ously to the next general meeting, submit the following;
1. That engaged in a great and good work, which demands
increasing facilities for its execution, both of laborers and of
means necessary to the successful prosecution of plans of use
fulness already adopted; we resolve to regard as an indication
of God’s peculiar favor to this Mission, as an answer to our
prayers, the arrival of a reinforcement of Missionaries, who
shall engage with us, “ heart and hand,” in prosecuting our be
nevolent enterprize.
2. Resolved, that we regard union of sentiment and practice
on points intimately connected with laying the foundation of a
Christian Church on heathen ground, and of the administration
of Gospel ordinances generally, of infinite importance;
3. Therefore, Resolved, that should Rev. Mr. Ellis and othef
�1830.]
31
JESUITS.
English Missionaries arrive previously to the next general meet
ing, we do cordially invite them to enter into our views, and to
co-operate with us in building up a temple of the living God,
which, Jesus Christ being the chief corner stone, we believe is
here ascending, and which we trust will reflect the glory of his
grace to distant generations.
Respectfully submitted,
S . W h it n e y , }
L.
J.
A n d r e w s , > Committee.
S. G reen, )
On motion, voted, that the committee appointed to write the
joint letter be at liberty to affix an appendix, which shall contain
such rules and regulations passed at former meetings as they
may think proper to introduce.
Adjourned till called together by the moderator.
closed with prayer by Mr. Bingham.
M onday,
Met at 1 o’clock, P. M.
Mr. Andrews.
Meeting
Jan. 25.
Meeting opened with prayer by
The report of the committee on subject no. 10, (which had
been laid upon the table,) was taken up, and, after a full consid
eration, was accepted, and is as follows:
The committee appointed to draw up resolutions respecting
the course proper to be pursued by us with regard to the Jesuits,
present the following;
Whereas, in the sovereign and merciful dispensations of God’s
providence, we have been sent to these islands of the sea for the
purpose of making known the religion of the Bible in its fullest
extent; the character of God; the ruined condition of man by
nature; the plan of salvation through Jesus Christ,and the neces
sity of holiness of heart to the enjoyment of happiness here or
hereafter: we,thus constituted, by the Great H ead of the Church,
builders on Zion’s walls, view with holy jealousy the approach
of any, for the purpose of tearing down what God has enabled
us to build, or of erecting a superstructure on a foundation not
authorized by the King of Zion; and that as watchmen on the
walls, we are bound to give the alarm to our fellow laborers, and
�32
JESUITS.
[1 8 3 0 .
?tarul ready ourselves with spiritual weapons to meet the aggres
sion: YVherefbre,
1. Resolved, from what we know of the Jesuits—from the
manner in which they came to these Islands—from the manner
in which they have attempted to inculcate their peculiar tenets—from the natuie of those tenets themselves, and the influ
ence which they are exerting upon this ignorant people; that
we consider them dangerous to the civil government of these
Islands; that we consider them as exerting a deadly influence in
drawing away souls from Gcd’s word; as hinder ers of the prog
ress of the people in civilization and literature; as enemies of
sound morality, and as enemies of the Religion of Jesus Christ.
2. Resolved, that we recognize in its fullest extent the grand
truth, that every man for his religious opinions and practices,
when not leading to open immorality, is accountable only to God
and his own conscience, and therefore all coercive measures of
the civil authority to control religious opinions or practices, ex
cept as above mentioned, are improper and injurious.
3 . Resolved, that as we fully recognize the right of the civil
government of these Islands to say what foreigners may or may
not reside among them, so the rulers of this people have a per
fect right to send airy foreign resident from the Islands, even
without assigning the reason.
4. Resolved, that we fully recognize the right of the civil
government of these Islands to punish all who transgress the
laws of the land, foreigners as well as native subjects; and hence,
should any individual be induced to violate the laws of these
Islands, through the instructions of any foreign residents of any
class, that both the person so offending and the person commu
nicating such instruction be liable to the penalty of the law.
5. Wherefore, Resolved, that we do not consider it persecu
tion in the least degree, when the Chiefs ask our advice or opin
ion on the subject, fairly to tell them that in our estimation the
Jesuits as a body are dangerous to the civil, moral and religious
prosperity of the Islands. But that we advise the Chiefs not to
inflict any punishment upon them, or upon those that follow
them, on account of any part of their religion; but if they break
the laws of the land, they may be punished for that alone.
6. Resolved, that it be our duty as Missionaries of the cross,
and as teachers of this people, to make known to the Chiefs his
torical facts, respecting the principles and practices of the Jes
uits, and that we urge them to compare these principles and
�1830.]
JESUITS.
33
practices with what they know of G >d’s word, that thus they
may be judges themselves of what is proper.
7. Resolved, that if it should bethought necessary, we con
sider it highly proper to teach the people from the pulpit on this
subject at Honolulu, but would recommend generally that the
subject be so treated as not to point out the Jesuits except by
fair inference; and that at the other stations we say nothing
respecting them, except in private.
8. Resolved, that we tell the Chiefs when consulted, that if
they design to send the Jesuits away, as they have said, or that
they do by no means consent to their staying here, that they
have a right to forbid their preaching, or in any manner prose
lyting, until such time as they can procure their departure; but
if they give their consent to their staying here, they cannot in
the proper exercise of civil authority prohibit their preaching or
proselyting, if they persist in doing so, without taking away the
right of conscience from them, and thus subjecting religious
opinions to the law of the land.
9. Resolved, that the consideration that wre have such enemies
in our midst, should lead us to make greater exertions to teach
this people to read, think, reflect, and compare with each other
the different parts of the grand system of religion contained in
the Bible, that they themselves, guided by the Spirit of God,
may be able to judge between truth and error; and that we pray
more fervently that the Great H ead of the Church will bless our
instructions, and overrule all opposition, and cause it to redound
to his own glory.
Respectfully submitted,
L. A n d r e w s , }
,
' .
. .
S. W h i t n e y , > Committee.
J. S. G r e e n , )
The committee of overtures proposed that the meeting take
up the subject of Regulations for the distribution of donations
and other means of support.
The meeting resolved itself into a committee of the whole for
the consideration of the subject; and the following resolutions
were adopted:
1.
Resolved, that we renew our promise to act according to
the regulations of the Board, u That at every Missionary station
the earnings of the members of the Mission, and all monies and
articles of different kinds, received by them, or any of them,
directly from the funds of the Board, or in the way of donation,
�34
DONATIONS, &C.
[1380.
shall constitute a common stock, from which they shall severally
draw their support, in such proportions, and under such regula
tions as may from time to time be found advisable, and be ap
proved by the Board or Prudential Committee.”
2.
Resolved, that it be the duty of each station to transmit to
the general agent, annually, an account of its wants and its
prospects. This annual report, (to be closed on the 30th day of
April,) shall embrace in separate items,
1. Expences for building;
2. Repairing houses, making fences, and labor not embraced
in the foregoing particulars;
3. Expenses for fuel, water, fresh meat, vegetables and mis
cellaneous articles.'
In the same report shall be embraced an account of all dona
tions received from the natives, and from foreign visitants, and
other sources, designed for the use of the stations,or the individu
als receiving them for their benefit on Missionary ground. The
same report shall also contain an account of all income, whether
avails of land, or earnings of the Missionaries.
.
3. Resolved, that it moreover be the duty of the stations to
transmit to the general agent, at other times as circumstances
may require, a statement of t heir wants, and such an account of
their donations as may be needful to guide him in the due distri
bute n of the general means of support.
4. Resolved, that whenever supplies are received from Amer
ica, or are purchased here, of whatever kind they may be, the
agent shall, as soon as he is able, make a general and equable
division of the articles, having respect to the supplies previously
sent to the different stations, to the wants of the stations, and
to the means which they may have of supplying themselves.
5. Resolved, that in all cases where the agent is unable to
make a division with satisfaction to himself, it shall be his duty
to inform the stations of such difficulty ; and in addition to this,
it shall be his duty, when required, and from time to time as cir
cumstances may render proper, to give such an account of the
depository as shall serve as a directory to the families what ai ti
d es to apply for; and also, annually, to give an account of the
general expenses of the different stations, and of the pecuniary
state of the whole Mission.
6
It is moreover, Resolved, as in strict accordance with the
regulations of the Board, and in perfect consistency with the
spirit of these resolutions , that all presents received by us, or by
any of us, be held inviolably sacred to be devoted to the objects
�1830.]
ANNUAL REPORT.
35
JOINT LETTER.
of the Mission on Missionary ground; and should Providence
ever call us from this field of labor, we sacredly promise to give
a full and faithful account of all articles of presents still remain
ing in our hands, making a distinction between articles intended
as general support, and mere tokens of personal regard.
Adjourned.
Meeting closed with prayer by Doct. Judd.
W ednesday,
M et at 2 o’clock, P. M.
Mr. Clark.
Jan 27.
Meeting opened with prayer by
'
‘
The committee appointed to write the annual report of the
progress and state of the Mission, presented the outlines of their
report, which was read; and the plan being approved, the re
port was referred back to the committee to be completed.
The committee appointed to write a joint letter, embracing
the principal transactions of the present general meeting, pre
sented an outline of a letter to the Corresponding Secretary of
the Board, designed to accompany the minutes of the meeting,
when they shall be made ready.
On motion, voted, that the letter be referred back to the com
mittee to be completed.
On motion, voted, that this meeting adjourn sine die.
Meeting closed with prayer by Mr. Bingham.
SA M U E L W H IT N E Y , Moderator
L E V I C H A M B E R L A IN , Scribe.
�APPENDIX.
E X T R A C T S F R O M T H E M IN U T E S
OF A GENERAL MEETING HELD AT KAILUA, SEPT.
1826.
R E G U L A T IO N S
RESPECTING GENERAL MEETINGS#
The following system of Rules for the regulation of business
at this, and at future general meetings of the Sandwich Island
Mission, was unanimously adopted:
1. W hen the members, assembled for the general meeting of
the Mission, are ready to attend to business, the old moderator,
or if he is absent, the Missionary at whose house they are con
vened, shall call them to order, call for, receive and count the
ballots for a moderator, and declare the person chosen.
2. The moderator shall take the chair, and call for the ballots
for a scribe.
3. The meeting shall then be opened by prayer by the mod
erator, and daily opened and closed by prayer during the ses
sions, by him or some person at his request.
4. it shall be the duty of the scribe to take minutes of the
proceedings of the meeting, to read them when called for by
the meeting, to record them for preservation; and during the
interval between one general meeting and another, he shall, at
the request of any two members, receive the votes of the mem
bers on any subject they may deem necessary to be decided be
fore a general meeting can be conveniently assembled.
5. All elections shall be by ballot.
6. As soon as the meeting is organized and opened, a com
mittee of overtures shall be chosen to prepare business for the
meeting.
7. If any member shall be tardy at an adjourned meeting, the
moderator shall be at liberty to call for the reason of his delay.
8. The general practice, in deliberative bodies, of addressing
�TERM OF MISSIONARY SERVICE,
37
the moderator, shall be observed; but the moderator may ad
dress the meeting on the merits of any question.
' 9. Every motion, except for adjournment, shall be reduced to
writing, if the moderator or any two members require it.
10
When a question is under debate, no motion shall be
made, except for amendment, or the previous question, or to
postpone, or for adjournment. The previous question is, “ Shall
{he main question now be put ?”
11.
No motion, except for reconsideration, shall be acted up
on until seconded.
R E S O L U T IO N S
ADOPTED RESPECTING THE TERM OF MISSIONARY SERVICE,
1. Resolved, that we consider our services as Missionaries
pledged to the Church for life; and that we consider it irregular
for any member of the Mission to take any steps towards a re
moval from his post, until he have the approbation of his brethren,
2. Resolved, that in order to justify the Mission in approving
of the return of any member from this field, to the Board, they
shall be able to assign reasons for it, wrhich, in their opinion, will
be satisfactory to the American Board and the candid Christian
public.
R E S O L U T IO N S
RESPECTING PRINCIPLES OF INTERCOURSE WITH THE CHIEFS,
WITH REFERENCE TO COMMERCIARL, POLITICAL,
AND CIVIL AFFAIRS.
1.
Resolved, that we consider ourselves required by our in*
structions, as well as by the nature of our office as Christian
Missionaries, to abstain, like our Divine Master, from all inter
meddling and interference with the political and party concerns
of the nation.
In the instructions delivered by Rev. Dr. Worcester to Messrs.
Bingham and Thurston, and their associates,they are enjoined;
“ As the kingdom of Christ, to which you have the felicity to
belong, and the interests of which only you are to seek, is not
�PRINCIPLES OF INTERCOURSE
of this world; like him you will withhold yourselves entirely
from all interference and intermeddling with the political affairs
and party concerns of the nation or people among whom you
reside, paying all proper respect to the powers that be, and
rendering to all their dues.
Again, (Missionary Herald, page 108, vol. xix, instructions
to reinforcement,) “ You are to abstain from all interference
with the local and political views of the people. The kingdom
of Christ is not of this world; and it behooves a Missionary to
stand aloof from the private and transient interests of chiefs and
rulers. Inculcate the duties of justice, moderation and forbear
ance, truth and universal kindness. Do all in your power to
make men, of every class, good, wise and happy. Let it be ap
parent that you have nothing to do with traffic or gain; that far
nobler objects brought you from your native land; that you re
gard all the world has to offer as of very little value compared
with the salvation of a single soul.”
Perhaps little can be said by way of comment on the above,
as these instructions are so explicit as to require no explanation.
W e are in duty bound to our patrons and by the sacred charac
ter of our office, not to assume even the appearance of any
temporal authority, or to act as magistrates in any case; or to
intermeddle with the party concerns of chiefs and people which
have no relation to the inteiests of religion. The choice of ru
lers and magistrates; the leveying and collecting of taxes; the
apportioning out of the lands; the buying and selling, of chiefs
and people, either with foreigners or with each other; and the
manner of administering the government of the Islands, together
with the customs and usages of the country that are not in di
rect varience with the spirit and precepts of the Gospel, are
things with which we are not to interfere, and over which we
are not to attempt to exercise control. These are affairs which
do not afFect us as Missionaries, nor are we to advise concern
ing them, or any thing else except requested, when they do
not interfere with the Gospel, or the progress of civilization.
c2. Resolved, that we are moreover bound by our instructions
and the nature of our office, to make known the whole word of
God, especially its prohibitions and requirements which aPect
the conscience or the well being of the soul, however opposed
these prohibitions and requirements maybe to the former cus
toms and present practices of the people.
“ Your views,” say the Prudential Committee, “ are not to
be limited to a low or narrow scale; but you are to open your
�WITH THE CHIEFS.
hearts wide, and set your mark high. You are to airn at noth
ing short of covering those islands with fruitful fields and pleas
ant dwellings, and schools, and churches, and raising up the
whole people to an elevated state of Christian civilization. ”—*■
Again, “ To obtain an adequate knowledge of the language of
the people; to make them acquainted with letters; to give them
the Bible with skill to read it; to turn them from their barbar
ous courses and habits; to introduce, and get into extended oper
ation and influence among them the arts, and institutions, and
usages of civilized life and society; above all to convert them
from their idolatries, superstitions and vices, to the living and
redeeming God; his truth, his laws, his ways of life, of virtue
and glory.” To effect this, we are to preach the whole word
of God, and to keep back no part of it. Ezek. iii. 17. u Son of
man, I have made thee a watchman over the house of Israel:
therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning
from me.” This and the four following verses enjoin, in the
strongest terms, the duty of Ministers of the Gospel to be faith
ful, in preaching the word of God, without disguise or conceal
ment; and declare the high and fearful responsibility of those
who fail to discharge this high trust. The blood of souls lost
through their unfaithfulness will be required at their hands.
The example of Christ and his Apostles is the model upon
w hich we are to form our manner of preaching. They hesitated
not to declare in full the truth of God before kings and rulers,
to u reason of temperance, righteousness and a judgment to
come,” and to exhort them to repentance and amendment of life,
in order to obtain the salvation of Christ. W e are to specify
the particular vices which are condemned by the law of God,
and enforce the necessity of forsaking them, both by precept
and example. How deeply rooted soever may be the preju
dice in favor of their vices, however interwoven they be with
their government, however sanctioned by antiquity, we are not
to cease lifting up our voices against them, as the destroyers
both of temporal peace and eternal happiness At the same
time our instructions are to go no farther than exhortation and
advice. This must be done in the spirit of meekness and atfectionate concern for the welfare of those whom we address.
S.
Resolved, that in perfect consistency with our instructions,
and the maintenance of our proper characters as Christian teach
ers, we may give information and advice with respect to the
** arts, and institutions* zvd usages of civilized life and socicty
�40
PRINCIPLES OF INTERCOURSE WITH THE CHIEF;
and may use our influence to discountenance every vice, and
encourage every virtue.
It has been declared in our instructions, already quoted, that
a prominent object of our enterprize is to raise this people from
their present degradation to a state of Christian civilization. In
order to effect this purpose we are to encourage the introduction
of the civil and domestic arts and virtues. We are to teach them
justice, prudence, humanity, and diligence in business; to en
force our instructions by setting before them proper motives and
sanctions, and to illustrate our principles by practical and famil
iar examples. Whenever we are called upon by those in author
ity for instruction or advice, of a civil or political nature, then
xve may give it, showing our disinterestedness in so doing. In
giving advice to chiefs, and others asking it, a good and perfectly
safe rule is, to adhere strictly to the word of God as authority,
in all instances where it is applicable to the case, and where it
is not explicit on the point of inquiry, it is proper to cite the usa
ges of Christian nations as authority for our opinions. Nor
ought we to conceal from others what are our motives and de
signs; viz. to produce an entire change in the former state of
things in these Islands, and to aim at nothing short of raising
up the whole people to an elevated state of Christian civiliza
tion. At the same time let it be distinctly known, that we seek
not theirs but them; that we wish not for their property or their
lands or their kingdom. Let it be known that our object is
solely to instruct the people to give their hearts to God, and to
submit cheerfully to the obedience of his laws.
In regard to the preparing and establishing a code of laws for
the regulation and government of these Islands, the committee
are of opinion that we ought not to be indifferent to the kind and
nature of the laws about to be promulgated. As members of
the community, as teachers of the chiefs and. people, it will be
our duty to give information and advice as far as is necessary,
wrhen asked so to do by the proper authorities. It will doubt
less be the wish of the rulers of the nation to make their laws
accord with and be founded upon the word and laws of God.
Such being the case, it will be expected that we shall make
known to them the laws of God, as well as the nature of those
codesof laws that are adopted by Christian nations.
The part then, in our opinion, that we are to take in regard to
a code of laws for this nation, is not to dictate what shall and
what shall not be enacted: but rather to explain the principles
and design of laws. We may also translate, if necessary, for
�MARRIAGES.
41
their use, such of the laws of foreign nations as may be appli
cable to the condition of this people; and to render them any
other such assistance, when requested, as shall be consistent
with our profession as Christian teachers. At the same time
we are to leave entirely to the Rulers to adopt or reject such as
they choose, without our interference or attempt to procure the
adoption of any law or set of laws.
RESOLUTIONS RESPECTING MARRIAGES.
1. Resolved, that we make it a point of special concern to
explain and enforce the marriage duties among the people; and
when applied to by proper persons, to assist in solemnizing mar
riage, with the consent of some chief, either expressed in per
son, or implied by a law regulating marriage.
2. Resolved, that no marriage should be solemnized within
the degrees of consanguinity or affinity forbidden by the word
of God.
3^ Resolved, that it is not conformable with the Gospel for
any man to have more than one wife, nor for any woman to have
more than one husband, at the same time.
4. Resolved, that marriages contracted in a state of heathen
ism, and not now repugnant to scripture rules, are of perpetual
obligation, without a new or formal ratification; but an acknowl
edgment from the parties that they consider themselves bound
by Gospel rules, shall be required before either of the partied
can be eligible for church-membership.
5. Resolved, in case one of the contracting parties was not a
heathen, either Christian marriage, or some good evidence of
honorable marriage, equivalent at least to a declaration from the
parties that they have been truly bound by the marriage con
tract, shall be required before their living together can be ap
proved by the Missionaries as regular, and before either of the
parties can be eligible for church-membership.
6. Resolved, that marriages contracted between parties pro
fessing to follow the word of God, in order to be approved as reg*
ular, must be solemnized by some Chief or Missionary, or by
both in connexion, and in presence of a competent number of
witnesses. But if, in violation of this rule, the marriage be con
tracted according to the former custom of this country, it shall
be considered binding, unless inconsistent with scripture rule?;
�42
NATIVE ASSISTANTS.
but if the p a r t ie s desire a formal ratification, they may declare
themselves to be man and wife before a Missionary and witness
es; which declaration shall be recorded This shall always be
required before either of the parties is held up to public notice
by the Missionaries.
7.
Resolved, that an aggrieved party justly complaining of adulterv, or wilful desertion, such as neither private instruction,
the voice of the church, nor the civil authority can remedy, may,
by consent of the proper authorities, be married to another.
8
Resolved, that the deserting party cannot contract a new
marriage conformable with the word of God, until the deserted
be known to be fairly divorced.
RESOLUTIONS RESPECTING NATIVE ASSISTANTS.
1. Resolved, that we deem it expedient and very desirable,
in the present weak slate of the Mission, that we avail our
selves of the aid of the more intelligent, pious and seriously dis
posed chiefs and natives, in teaching schools, visiting and ad
dressing the people on religious subjects, and in the correction
of translations and religious tracts, or other books for publi
cation.
2. Resolved, that every native teacher, who is now employed,
or shall h e r e a f t e r be employed in teaching school shall be ex
amined by the Missionary within whose limits he is to teach.and
obtain from him a written certificate, approving his qualifica
tions, and assigning him his work; and if he violate the instruc
tions of his Missionary, his certificate shall be forfeit.
3. Resolved, that no native be allowed to convene a congre
gation and conduct a religious meeting, tilJ such person shall
have obtained the approbation of the Missionary within whose
limits he resides.
RESOLUTIONS RESPECTING CALUMNY AND OPPOSITION,
I . Resolved, that every Missionary ought studiously to avoid
* personal controversy with any opposer, and to show the spirit
of kindness and forbearance which the Gospel recommends in
case of abuse; “in weekness instructing those that opr ,>ge them-
�CALUMNY AND OPPOSITION.
43
S.- Resolved, that in case of an attack particular or general,
v/e w ill,v- d e exercise of the unalienable rights of self defence,
aim to magnify our office, and vindicate the cause ol God, rather
than to gain any personal advantage.
S.
Resolved, that while each conforms to the general princi
ples of the Mission, the cause of each shall he the cause of all;
and as personal controversy should be avoided, and the cause of
the Gospel not surrendered, it will be specially important that
we support each other.
4.
Resolved, that in case our characters, our principles or
practice be misrepresented in a manner calculated materially to
injure, if not corrected, the cause of C h r is tia n ity , it will he our
duty of course to plead that cause by a careful statement of
facts, and by setting truth in the plainest possible light, espe
cially before the chiefs, and others interested in the welfare of
the nation.
L IS T O F S T A N D IN G C O M M IT T E E S ,
Who are expected to report to the next General Meeting*
Committee of correspondence on the subject of the publication
of a Gamut and Tunes.— Messrs. Richards and Judd. See
page 20.
Committee to prepare the Annual Report.— Messrs. Bing
ham, Andrews and Clark. Page 22.
Committee to write the Joint I .etter.—Messrs. Green, Cham
berlain and Whitney. Page 22.
.
Committee for superintending the printing department.—
Messrs. Bingham, Clark and Chamberlain. Page 2 1.
Committees to write the letters recommended by the general
meeting—Messrs. Green, Richards. Whitney, Bingham, Thurs
ton, Andrews and Clark. Page 24.
Committee of correspondence respecting the futurn supply
of paper, type, ink, &.c.— Messrs, Bingham, Andrew* ar;i
Clark, Page 29 ,
�INDEX.
Page.
Annual Report,
to be printed,
Committees,
election of, .
.
.
29
3. 4. 22.
24. 25. 29
standing, list of, .
43
Donations,
distribution of, . 33. 34
to be accounted for,
35
General meetings,
regulations for, . . 36
next at Lahaina, . 22
Marriages,
resolutions respecting, 41
Meeting, general,
organization of,
1. ~
Minutes,
to be printed, . . 29
appendix to, . . 3 1 . 3 6
Missionary service, term of, 5?
Overtures, committee of,
their list of subjects, . 2
Opposition and calumny, . 42
Presents, &c.
report not accepted, 24
regulations respecting, 33
Printing,
com for superinten’ce. 24
com. of correspond
ence on future supply
of paper, type, See.
29
Reports, of standing corn’s.,
on annual report, . 15
u Jesuits, . . . 15
“ Joint letter, . . 19
“ North West Coast, 14
u Percival case, . 18
Paper, type, See.
16
“ Printing, . 16....18
Page
Reports, on business of the
current meeting,
on annual report, . 35
u ardent spirits, 25...27
“ books, auxiliary to
translations,
27
“
“
native,
distribution of, and
how accounted for, 23
“ English mission
aries, . . .
30
66 Foreigners, labor
30
among,
u General letters, 24. 25
u
“
meetings, 21
“ Hilo, aid to, . 13. 14
“ Jesuits, . . 31...33
u Joint letter, . . 35
“ King and chiefs,
translating and
printing for, . 27
u Letters, committees
to write, . . 24
u Location of Mr.
Green, . . . 14
u Principles of in
tercourse with
the chiefs, . . 28
u p rinting, . . . 13
u Records, . . .
22
“ Teachers, native, 28
u Translations, &c. 20
“ Waimea, . . 4... 12
Sacred music,
committee of corres
pondence, . . 19
Teachers, native,
how they may be use
fully employed, . 42.
�
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes - 1830
Date
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1830
-
https://hmha.missionhouses.org/files/original/e5d5f74222ff5e13d13e14056b5aece6.pdf
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Text
EXTRACTS FROM THE
MINUTES
OF A
G E N E R A L
M E E T IN G
OF THE
S A N D W I C H I S L A N D S MISSION?
HELD
AT HONO LULU,
JUNE 1831.
H onolulu, W ednesd a y,
f
Ju n e 15, 1831.
A.N arrangem ent having been made for holding the G en
eral M eeting at this place instead of L ahaina, in conse
quence of the expected arrival of new laborers from the
B oard; and the brethren of the different stations having
arrived, a m eeting was convened this morning at the house
o f Rev. Mr. B i n g h a m , and continued by adjournments un
til the 28th: present
O f the Station at
"Rev.
H ir a m B in g h a m ,
E p h r a im W . C l a r k ,
G e r r e t P. J u d d , M. D.
Mr. L e v i C h a m b e r l a i n ,
“ S tep h en S h ep ard .
u
H onolulu,
<
K auai,
Rev.
C Rev.
L ahaina,
<
(
K ailua,
&
K aaw aloa,
H ilo ,
“
“
f Rev.
<
(
“
M r.
Rev.
1
S a m u e l W h itn e y .
W illia m R ic h a r d s ,
L o r r in A n d r e w s ,
J o n a th a n S. G re en .
A sa T h u r s to n ,
A r t e m a s B is h o p ,
S a m u el R u g g les.
J o s e p h G o o d r ic h ,
�2
REINFORCEMENT.
(1831.
T h e moderator of the last general meeting called for the
ballots for a moderator;
Rev. H i r a m B i n g h a m was chosen.
T h e moderator opened the meeting by prayer.
Ballots were then taken for a secretary;
Mr. L e v i C h a m b e r l a i n was chosen.
T he mission having occasion to record with gratitude,
the arrival of a reinforcem ent of four new laborers, with
their female helpers, to aid in building up the cause o f
Christ in this land; viz:
Rev. D w i g h t B a l d w i n ,
Mrs. C h a r l o t t e F . B a l d w i n ,
Rev. R e u b e n T i n k e r ,
M rs. M ary T . W . T in k e r ,
R ev. S h e l d o n D i b b l e ,
M rs. M aria M . D j b b l e ,
M r. A n d r e w J o h n s t o n e ,
Mrs. R e b e c c a M. W . J o h n s t o n e :
it was motioned, that the instructions to them, delivered on
the eve of their departure from INew Bedford, be read ;
which was done. W hereupon the following resolution w as
adopted:
In consideration of the appointment, and instructions o f
the Prudential Committee to Messrs. Baldwin, T inker,
Dibble, and Johnstone, to labor in concert with us, as mem
bers of this mission,
Resolved, T hat with the most grateful acknowledgement
of the Divine favor and mercy to us and the heathen, we
with open arms and affectionate hearts bid them welcome to
this field o f usefulness; receive them as fellow-laborers;
and invite them to unite with us in the business of this m eet
ing, and in all the weighty though delightful duties of mis
sionaries.
T h e committee of overtures presented the following list
o f subjects for consideration:
1 Reports of committees and others, who re«frved ap
pointments at the last general meeting.
2 Appointment of a committee, to write a joint letter to
the Board from the above reports, em bracing also the ac
count of this meeting.
3 L etter of the Prudential Com mittee, respecting a
mission to the M arquesas islands.
�1 83 1 .)
LIST OF SUBJECTS.
3
4 F ailure of the printer’s health, and means for supply
ing his place,
5 Location of M r. G reen.
6 Location of the new missionaries.
7 Assignment of translations, and other public labors for
the coming year.
8 H igh school for natives, and an appeal to the literary
and scientific public for aid in support of it.
9 S e w distribution of native books, and manner of dis
posing of them.
10 Foreign distribution of native books.
11 N ew plans of book-making, including the subjects of
a bindery, papermill, stereotyping, lithographic stone, type
foundery, &c.
12 Superintendence of the press.
13 M aps and cuts for a Geography, and cuts for Scripture
H istory.
14 Intercourse with foreigners,
15 Duty of this mission in reference to the Rom an Cath
olic Mission.
16 D uty of the mission in respect to marrying foreigners.
17 Building for medical department.
18 D uty of churches to support the Gospel
19 M athem atical estimate of the pecuniary value of the
time of a preacher, or translator actually employed in labor
ing for the heathen.
20 Inquiry into the subject of keeping Saturday or Sab
bath night as sacred time.
21 R etrenchm ent in supplies from the Board; such as
sugar, butter, beef, pork, &c.
22 Books for translations.
On subject no. 1, the several reports were approved;—
the following is the report of the printing committee:
1. Paper on hand, Jan . 1, 1830:
D em y,
340 R eam s;
Foolscap, 441
do. . . 78* R eam s;
Do. received and purchased:
D em y,
238 Ream s;
Foolscap, 423
do, . . 661
do.
3, Works printed:
T o tal,
1442
�PRINTING.
Scripture H istory,
192 pages 18mo. 10.000 copies, 1,920,000 pages; *■
«
First book for children,
36 U
25.000 “
900,000 "
12mo. 10.000 “
Epistles, Rom. to 1 Thes.108
1,080,000
18 “ 50.000 “
Spelling book, (6,7&8eds.) 8
400,000
a
Appendix to do (3d ed,)
8
10.000 “
80,000
M inutes of Gen. M eeting, 44
12mo
30 “
1,320
10.000 “
240,000
F irst 23 psalms,
24
24mo . 10,000 “
1,080,000
H ym ns, (5th ed.)
108
18 “ 10.000 “
600,000
Joseph, (2d u )
60
12 u
4.500 “
324,000
L uke, (2d a )
72
18 “ 10,000 “
640,000
Joshua,
64
a
10,000 “
80,000
Catechism , (4th ed.)
8
V arious small works, amounting in all to ............................. 53,260
T otal, . 7,398,580
3. Expenses:
, ( Dem y,
2 9 6 | R eam sat $3 12*. $926 56
F o r paper used j Fool£ ap> 465
do.
2 50
1162 50—2089 06
- 37 50
Ink, 75 lbs. at 50 cts. per lb.
- $ 78 37
Composition,
.
.
.
405 56
P ress work,
233 16
Folding,
.
.
.
.
.
58 35-----775 44
Stitching,
85 45
Contingencies,
$2985 45
(1831
�1831.)
M A R Q U ESA S.
5
On subject no. 2, Messrs. Richards, Bingham and Thurs
ton were appointed the proposed committee.
On subject no. 3, the following resolutions were adopted:
1. T hat we view the subject as one of great importance,
and one demanding the special attention of this mission; not
merely on account of its having been suggested by our pat
rons; but also on account of its direct and immediate bearing
on the eternal interests of an interesting group of islands,
sustaining such a relation to us, as that we cannot be absol
ved from important duties respecting them.
2. T hat we both mutually and personally pledge our
selves to the Board, and each other, to give the subject that
prayerful and diligent investigation, which they have recom
mended, and which we think its importance demands.
3. T hat since the means of information in reference to
the immediate establishment of a mission, or even an im
mediate survey of the islands is at present limited: Resolved,
that we appoint a committee of four, whose duty it shall be
to collect all the facts in their power, relative to the present
state of the islands, and on every point which has a bearing
on this important subject.
4. T h at the above mentioned committee, should they
find the plan feasible, shall have power, either by a deputa
tion of their own number, or by any other members of the
mission, to make a survey of the islands at their discretion;
it being understood, that the committee shall consult all the
members of the mission, who can conveniently be assembled.
5. T hat, holding ourselves in readiness to do the will of
God, wherever he shall call us to labor, and being well aware that the good of the common cause may frequently
call us to sunder the tie by which we are bound to a particu
lar station, we believe that this subject need not prevent the
present location of any member of the mission.
6. T hat a committee of one be appointed, to address a
letterto the Prudential Committee on the subject, stating all
we know at present of the islands; and also the reasons
which operate on our minds to justify the above resolutions.
M essrs. Bingham , Richards, Clark and Chamberlain,
were chosen a committee, to attend to the subject of a sur
vey of the M arquesas islands.
M r. Richards was chosen to write to the Prudential Com
m ittee on the subject.
2*
�6.
L O C A T IO N .
(1831)
On subject no. 4, the following report was adopted:
1. T hat Mr. Shepard’s health is such that it should be
entirely optional with himself how far he shall engage in the
duties of the office; and, considering the importance of the
press as an auxiliary to the g reat work in which we are en
gaged, it becomes indispensably necessary that some one of
our number be appointed to that place, in order to afford
M r. S. such relief in his labors as the nature of his case
requires.
2
T he committee further recommend that M r. S. be at
full liberty to dispose of himself as he, and the brethren of
the station where he may reside, shall think best; or as the
providence of God shall seem to direct.
3. The committee recommend also, that the B oard be
informed ofthe failure of Mr. Shepard’s health, and request
ed to send us another printer as soon as practicable.
M r. Goodrich was chosen to supply the printer’s place.
On subject no. 5, the following resolution was adopted:
T hat, considering the claims of the windward part of H a
waii, to immediate and more extended efforts, M r. G reen be
appointed to the station at H ilo.
On subject no. 6, the following resolutions were adopted:
1. T hat those stations for which aid from the Board had
been solicited by us, to wit: H onolulu, H ilo, and Kaawaloa,
and the station fixed on by the mission at the last general meet
ing, to be occupied at W aim ea, for the double purpose of
benefitting invalids and promoting the best interests of the
natives of that place and o fH am ak u a and K ohala, have the
prominent claims to aid.
2 . T hat in endeavoring to strengthen our own posts, the
wishes ofthe Prudential Committee respecting the M arq u e
sas be still kept in view.
3 . T hat Mr. Johnstone be requested to reside at Honolulu.
4. That Mr. Baldwin be requested to reside at W aim ea,
on Hawaii, with reference to the medical wants of that sta
tion, and of all the other stations on that island; and that the
three brethren at Kona, H aw aii, supply him with an asso
ciate for the present year, except such parts of the time as
lie may be providentially supplied from some other station.
5. T hat one of the two remaining new missionaries be
chosen by ballot, to be located at Hilo.
�1 8 3 1 .)
TRANSLATIONS.
6.
T hat a ballot be taken for the place of residence ofthe
remaining missionary, and fixed on by a vote.
M r. Dibble was located by ballot at Hilo.
Voted, that Mr. T inker be requested to reside at Hono
lulu, till providence shall make it his duty to remove.
On subject no. 7, the following report was adopted;
1. T hat the assignments of the last year, remaining un
finished, and now in the hands of the translators, be continued
as before,
2. T hat M essrs. R ichards and Andrews be requested to
translate the Books of Judges and R uth, and the last 70
Psalm s, beginning at the 81st.
3. T hat the Rook of 1 Sarnuel be assigned to M r. T hurs
ton for translation.
4. T hat the Rook of ^S am uel be assigned to Mr. Rishop
for translation.
5. T hat the Psalm s from the 23d to the 81st, and the first
book of Kings,be assigned to M essrs. Bingham and Clark for
translation.
6. T hat M r. Bingham be requested to prepare a Gram
mar of the H aw aiian Language.
7. T hat a committee of three be appointed to devise a
plan for making a Hawaiian V ocabulary, and assigning the
different parts of its execution to different individuals, and
then of revising the work for the press.
8. T hat M r. Richards be requested to collect and prepare
for the press a volume of practical and doctrinal sermons in
the H aw aiian language.
9. T hat M essrs. W hitney and Gulick be requested to pre
pare a tract on Civil H istory, and M r. Green a tract on
Ecclesiastical History.
10. T hat the above works be revised in the same manner
as were the translations of the last year.
11. A work on book keeping, to Mr. Chamberlain.
12. A Sunday School tract to M r. Ruggles.
13. A tract on marriage to M r. Clark.
14. T he Committee would further recommend, that the
four Gospels already published, be revised, preparatory to the
entire republication ofthe New Testam ent, in the following
m anner; viz, T hat the Gospel of M atthew be assigned to
M r. Rishop j that the Gospel of M ark be assigned to Mr.
Richards; that the Gospel of L uke be assigned to M r.
�8
HIGH SCHOOL.
(1831.
Bingham, and the Gospel of John be assigned to M r. T hurs
ton: and that each Gospel after passing from the hands of
the revisor, shall be submitted to the review of the other
three before it be transcribed for the press.
Messrs. Richards, Andrews, and Bishop were chosen
the committee recommended in the above report.
On subject no. 8, the following resolutions were adopted:
1.
Resolved, that we consider the education of the natives
of these islands generally, and the preparation of some of
them in particular for becoming teachers of religion, as
holding a place of great importance in our missionary labors.
L
2. Resolved, that though we consider the present situa
tion of this people as requiring all our efforts in the w ay
heretofore directed; yet we believe this subject of sufficient
importance to demand the exclusive tim e, attention and la
bors of one of our number.
3. Resolved, that relying on the strength of the G reat
H ead of the Church, we agree to establish a H igh School,
for the purposes above mentioned, and on a plan hereafter
to be submitted.
4. Resolved, that the school go into operation as soon as
suitable accommodations for the principal and scholars shall
be ready; and that we show a plan of the school to the
chiefs, and invite them to co-operate with us.
T he committee recommend that the above mentioned
school be under the inspection and regulation of five di
rectors, including the principal, who shall be chosen by the
mission, and whose duties shall be assigned them in the plan
of the school.
The committee also recommend that a suitable place for
the location of the school, together with the name of the
principal, be nominated by ballot.
M r Andrew s was chosen principal of the school.
Lahaina was selected by ballot as the place of location for
the school.
Messrs. R ichards, Bingham , Thurston and W hitney,
(with the principal,) were chosen D irectors of the school.
T he directors presented the following plan for the school,
which was adopted:
W hereas the contemplated institution is a matter of expe
riment; that as the materials are exceedingly rude, and as
�1831.)
PLAN OF THE HIGH SCHOOL.
9
the means in our power for carrying it on are extremely
limited; it is not expedient at this time to draw up an extend
ed plan for the school; but simply to state the general out
lines o f what we hope it may prove to be hereafter.
The Design o f ihe School.
Sec. 1. It is the design of the H igh School to instruct
young men of piety and promising talents; in order that
they may become assistant teachers of religion, or fellow-laborers with us in disseminating the gospel of Jesu s
Christ to their dying fellow-men.
Sec. 2. In connection with the foregoing, it is also the
design of this institution to disseminate sound knowledge
throughout these islands, embracing literature and the sci
ences, and w hatever may tend eventually to elevate the
whole mass of the people from their present ignorance; that
they may become a thinking,enlightened and virtuous people.
Sec. 3. Another design of the H igh School is to qualify
native school teachers for their respective duties; to teach
them, theoretically and practically, the best methods of com
municating instruction to others.
O f the Board o f Directors.
1. T he H igh School shall be under the care and super
intendence of five directors, including the principal, who
shall be chosen by the mission; and whose duty it shall be
to watch over the interests of the school; to point out the
course of instruction to be pursued; and to make an annual
report to the mission, of the state and progress of the school.
2. T hey shall moreover, from time to time, examine the
plans of instruction adopted by the principal, and shall have
power to approve, alter, or recommend others, as they may
judge best adapted to secure the end.
3. It shall be their duty as a body, or a committee of them,
to examine, after the present year, the qualifications of such
as wish to become members of the school.
4. ,They shall also as a body, or a deputation of them,
attend to the semi-annual examination of the school, accord
ing to the manner hereafter specified.
O f ihe Principal.
1.
It shall be the duty of the principal to take charge of
the property of the institution, such as apparatus of any
�10
PLAN OF THE HIGH SCHOOL.
(1831.
kind, used as means of communicating instruction; also to
take the immediate direction of the school; appoint studies,
class the students, hear recitations; to deliver lectures, & c.;
and manage the whole according to the best of his judgment.
2. H e shall have power to appoint monitors, or assistant
teachers, from time to time, as he may think necessary or
conducive to the good of the school.
3. It shall be his duty to keep an account of the state o f
the school, progress of the scholars, and method of instruc
tion; and to report to the board of directors at the end of
each session.
4 ft shall be his duty moreover, to watch over the moral
and spiritual interests ofthe scholars,and he shall direct a por
tion of their every day studies to the great truths of the bible,
that while they increase in knowledge of the things of this
life, they may have the means of that knowledge which
makes wise unto salvation.
5.
It shall be his duty to open and close the school each
day by prayer.
O f the Scholars and their qualifications.
1.
T he number of scholars for the present year shall be
limited to fifty, to be apportioned as follows:— H aw aii, 18;
M aui, 14; Oahu, 10; K auai, 8; and liberty granted to the
king to attend with 5 of his favorite men.
% T he number may be increased hereafter, provided fa
cilities and ability shall increase for instructing them.
3. After the present year, that is from Ju n e, 1832, the
candidates for the privileges of the school, shall be examin
ed and approved by two or more of the directors, and none
shall be admitted but with their approbation.
4. Every scholar, after the above mentioned time, before
entering the school, must be able to read fluently and intel
ligibly in his own language; must be able to write a neat,
plain, legible hand; and be acquainted with common arith
metic and the fundamental principles of geography.
5. It shall be the duty of the scholars to attend regularly
and faithfully u^on all the duties assigned them by the! prin
cipal.
Course o f Study.
1.
As school books are so extremely limited, it is nearly
impossible at this time to lay out a course of study. It is
desirable, however, that the scholars should be put forward
�1 8 31.)
NATIVE BOOR®.
11
as fast as they become proficients in any one branch,to anoth
er of the next importance; and that next to arithmetic and
geography, should be composition in their own language,
and such other studies as the board may direct.
2. T he study of the doctrines and duties contained in the
word of God should be a prominent study, never to be lost
sight of.
3. T he year shall be divided into two sessions, of five
months each. T he first to begin with July of each year,
and end with November, the second to begin with Jan u ary ,
and end with M ay.
4. At the close of each session there shall be a public ex
amination of the scholars, in presence of the directors, and
such others as they may invite to attend.
5. T he length of time necessary for the students to attend
the school will depend on circumstances. It is to be hoped
that they may be induced to attend until they shall become
competent to instruct, and skillful in communicating instruc
tion in such ways as may be beneficial to the people at large.
6. It is designed that a piece of land shall be connected
with the institution, and the manual labor system introduced
as far as practicable; that the scholars may not only support
themselves, but be enabled to furnish their own stationary,
and such other articles as will be necessary in pursuing
their studies.
O f Amendments.
I t shall be the duty of the directors to make such alter
ations and amendments in this plan as their experience shall
dictate, and present them to the next general meeting.
O n subject no. 9, the following report was adopted;
1.
T he proportion for each station during the ensuing
year, shall be as follows, viz.
F or K auai, 6-40ths of the whole num ber;
Oahu, 7M O ths “
“
M aui, 9£-40ths “
tc
K ailua, 3?-40ths a
“
K aaw aloa, 43-40ths
“
W aim ea, 4-40ths <c
u
H ilo, 5-40ths
u
u
W ith respect to the manner of disposing of native
books, the committee recommend:
�12
NATIVE BOOKS.
(1 8 3 1 .
1. T hat in the bestowing of books gratuitously, the mem
bers of each station be at liberty to make such regulations as
shall best suit the circumstances of the station.
2. In the disposal of books for cash, the committee re
commend the following prices:
T hat the Gospels printed in America, and the
N m auhoike, be sold for
$0 50
T hat the H ym ns, L uke, Acts, Rom ans with
1 & 2 Corinthians, the remaining Epistles of
P au l, the remaining books o fth e New T esta
ment, Genesis, and Exodus, be sold for
0 25 each.
T hat Joseph, Joshua and Psalm s, be sold for 12^ each.
And the other small tracts at the rate of 12£ cents for ev
ery 48 pages 18mo.
3. T hat in disposing of books in exchange for the produc
tions of the islands, we have reference to the value of the
articles to the mission, and the prices of books as estimated
in the disposal of them for cash.
O n subject no. 10, the following report was adopted:
1. T hat the several members o fth e mission be at liberty
to send to their friends, and others, as many books as they
8hall think conducive to the good of our common cause.
2. T hat the printer be requested to put up and forward
as follows:
1. To the Board, 12 copies of each successive work in
the H aw aiian language, as it comes from the press.
2. To the Societies of Inquiry at Andover, Princeton
and Auburn, 2 copies each.
3. T o the London Missionary Society, 3 copies.
4. To the missionaries in the G eorgean, Society and
H arvey Islands, 12 copies.
5. T o the American missionaries in Canton, and to Dr.
Morrison, 1 copy each.
O n subject no. 11, the following report was adopted:
T he committee beg leave to state that they have consid
ered the subject, and they regard it as one of great impor
tance; but, as it is one of great compass, they do not feel
themselves able to treat it with much particularity.
T he business of making books, to supply the wants of a
nation, must obviously be a great, laborious and expensive
one; but a full and permanent supply of books, adequate
�1 8 3 1 .)
NATIVE BOOKS.
13
to the multiplying wants of the people among whom we
labor, should, in the opinion of your committee, be distinctly
recognized in the plans of this mission. It cannot be ex
pected that the Christian public will be disposed to furnish
the means of carrying on, to the extent desired, the business
of bookm aking; it behooves the mission, therefore, to inquire
what resources the islands afford of the nature of materials,
and what ability the mission possess of employing those
m aterials to advantage; and whether they may not be so
employed as to render, eventually, appeals to the Christian
public for gratuitous aid not necessary.
W ith regard to a Bindery, your committee are of opinion, that the subject is of so. much importance as to
demand the particular consideration of the mission. M ate
rials for carrying on the business of binding, or most of
them, in their crude state at least, are at hand, and might
be employed almost immediately to good advantage, though
some of the necessary implements for the work are wanting;
this, however, would not be an insurmountable obstacle, if
the mission should deem the object of sufficient importance
to justify the appointment of one of our number, to give
a part, or the whole of his attention, to the subject.
Y our committee recommend that three persons be ap
pointed as a Committee, whose duty it shall be to procure
and forward a quantity of kapa to the U nited States, in
order that an experiment may be made of the manufacture
ofthe material into paper. T hat it be also the duty o f the
same committee to write to the Board upon the several
subjects above named, requesting them to afford such aid
in these several branches of bookmaking as their best judg
ment shall dictate.
V oted, that the mission do deem the subject of a bookbindery of sufficient importance, to justify the immediate appoint
ment of one o f our number to superintend the business.
Messrs, Clark, Chamberlain and Andrews were chosen
to write to the board on the subject of bookmaking, and to
forward a quantity of kapa for an experiment in papermaking.
M r. Goodrich was chosen to superintend the business of
binding books,
On subject no. 12, Messrs. Bingham, C lark and Cham
berlain were chosen a committee to superintend the P rint
ing Department.
2
�14
INTERCOURSE WITH FOREIGNERS.
(1831.
O n subject no. 13, the following resolutions were adopted:
1. T hat a person be appointed, whose duty it shall be
to prepare a set of maps and submit them to the publishing
committee; to be published in such a way as they shall judge
expedient.
2. That the same person be requested to address the
Board on the subject of furnishing cuts suitable for a geo
graphy and also for Scripture History.
G. P . Judd, M. D . was chosen to prepare a set of
maps, and to write to the Board respecting cuts or emblems.
O n subject no. 14, the following resolutions were adopted:
1.
That, in consideration of the instructions of the P ru
dential Committee to be particular in all our communica
tions respecting difficulties with foreigners, we advise Mr.
Bingham to transmit to the Prudential Committee, the cor
respondence laid before this meeting, together with a full
explanation of the attending circumstances.
2L. T hat Messrs. Chamberlain, C lark and Judd, be also
requested to write to the Board, stating all the important
particulars which have come to their knowledge, respecting
the recent excitement at this place.
3. T hat we consider the ground, or foundation, of all our
difficulties with foreigners, to be laid in the nature of our
office as missionaries and preachers of the Gospel. W e feel
ourselves bound to give the fourth and seventh command
ments a place in our instructions in connection with the other
commands; we feel bound to preach, to exhort and teach
the chiefs to use their exertions to suppress the commission
o f crimes,among which we consider murder,infanticide,theft,
drunkenness, lewdness, and Sabbath-breaking, all to hold a
distinguished place.
4. T hat while we pursue this course, for the good of the
cause to which we are devoted, and in accordance with the
instructions we have received as missionaries, we will not for
get that sacred injunction o f our religion, to “ recompense to
no man evil for evil,” but “ as far as possible to live peaceably
with all men;” and that, in all our conduct, we will cherish
towards those who may oppose the principles which we ad
vocate, the same kind and tender spirit which Jesus Christ
exhibited towards his enemies on the cross, and wThich he has
especially enjoined upon us, as his ambassadors to the
heathen.
�♦
1831.)
J e s u its .
15
5.
T hat this benevolence which our religion enjoins upon
us, requires us to “ do good to all, as we have opportunity;”
and as there are many residing here who are removed from
the common Christian privileges of their native country,
and as many others visit this place, who are debarred from
the sanctuary for months and even years together, therefore,
Resolved,that unless the American Seam en’s Friend Society
relieve us, we feel ourselves under obligations to do all we
can, by holding meetings, as far as practicable, for their
benefit, by the distribution of tracts, and in such other ways
as providence may open before us, to seek their temporal
and eternal good; and that no efforts shall be wanting on our
part, which are consistent with our multiplied duties, that
they may enjoy the privileges of the Gospel, and be led to
rejoice in Jesus Christ as their Saviour.
On subject no. 15, the following resolutions were adopted:
1. T hat as laborers in the vineyard of our Lord, we view
with deep concern the efforts made, to break down the
hedges around that V ine which we believe Jesus Christ has
here planted, caused to take deep root, till it has filled the
land, and to introduce the beast of the field to devour it;
and that we unitedly and fervently beseech God, our
H elper, to “ return, look down from heaven,behold and visit
this vine, and the vineyard which his right hand hath plant
ed, and the branch which he hath made strong for himself.”
2. T hat while we deeply feel our need of divine interpo
sition, we resolve that no efforts on our part, consistent
with the spirit of the Gospel, shall be wanting to guard
this sacred enclosure from the invasion of the threatening
foe.
3. T hat we fully subscribe to the principles recognized
in our report, presented at the last general meeting, relative
to the right of private judgment, and conscience, on the one
hand, and the right of the civil government in regard to
foreigners, on the other; therefore,
4. T hat we cordially approve ofthe spirit of the rulers of
this nation in the measures which they have devised to
banish from this country an evil so threatening in prospect
to their hightest interests. Nevertheless,
5. Resolved, that while we ra fe sfP thfe chiefs
sendyti^
away the Jesuits from these islands, as soon as may be, we
caution them against adopting any measures which can ra-
�16
MARRIAGE.
(1831.
tionally be interpreted as persecution for conscience sake;
that they also be forbearing, but still decided and energetic.
6.
Resolved, that we all feel ourselves at liberty, if cir
cumstances shall require it, to warn the people from the
pulpitr and on other occasions, to beware of this common
foe; and that we redouble our diligence as teachers of the
Christian Religion, that we may speedily train up an inteligent, thinking people, able to detect the fallacious reas
onings of errorists, while we beseech God the H oly Spirit
to sanctify them “ through the truth.”
On subject no. 16, the following resolutions were adopted:
1. T hat the institution of marriage has an important bear
ing upon the objects of this mission, and that the people
should receive special instruction upon this subject from the
pulpit and the press.
2. That the marriage of unprincipled foreigners with na
tive females is highly to be deprecated.
3. T hat we do not consent to anarry any foreigner, unless
he offer satisfactory evidence that he has no wife in any
other part of the world, and unless he exhibit a written
certificate from the Governor, that he has permission to
reside permanently on the islands, and unless he has actually
been a quiet resident, engaged in some regular em ploym ent
at least one year.
4. T hat it be the duty of the senior missionary at each
station to make known these resolutions to the chiefs, and
the reasons for adopting them: and that one of our number
be appointed to write a tract or sermon for publication on
the subject of m arriage.
On subject no. 17, the following resolution was adopted:
That we approve of the P hysician’s building for the
medical department, according to his own discretion.
On subject no. 18, discussion was held, but no order was
taken upon it.
On subject no. 19, the following report was adopted:
1.
T hat the life of a missionary, from the time of leaving
his native land, cannot safely be estimated at more than 20
years; and that considering the length of the voyage, and
the time spent in acquiring a new language, 17 years is a
�1 8 3 1 .)
PECUNIARY VALUE OF MISSIONARY TIME.
17
proper estimate of the time spent in active missionary labor.
A lthough a man may do much before he has been 2 years
on missionary ground, yet even at the end of that time he
conies so far short of the full qualifications for a translator
and fbi other missionary duties, that 17 years is as inach
time as should be counted in this estimate.
2. T hat a man ot good qualifications for a missionary
may actually receive for his labors in A m erica $8 per
week with all his expenses paid; which in 20 years would
amount to $d,320. If therefore, he were to pursue that e~
con<»mical course which we have pledged ourselves t< do,
he wfculd have this sum to devote to the special education
o f his children, or otherwise leave for their benetit.
It is also presumed that no man qualified to labor as a
missionary, could be hired at a lower rate than this, inde
pendent of his design to benefit the heathen by an actual
donation of this time.
3. T hat the actual expense of a missionary to the Board,
before he becomes prepared to enter on efficient labor, is
at least $2,000.
4. T hat according to the 19th and last report of the
Board, the expense of the Sandwich Islands Mission was
$8,092; to this should be added at least $1,000 more, as
our proportion of the contingent expenses of the Board.
This, divided among the families then at the islands, would
give $650 to a family. To this,however, should be added a
part of the expenses of the lay members, at least half of
whose time is devoted to general services for the mission,
independent of direct labor for the heathen. This sum in
creases the annual expenses of a family to $700.
5. T hat one third of our missionary influence is of a
general character, exerted through the females of the mis
sion in connection with our general system, aside from ac
tual and effective labor.
6. T hat considering the time spent in domestic cares and
arrangem ents and necessary exercise, also the time spent
in devotional, critical and general study, for the purpose of
increasing our usefulness, we cannot regularly spend more
than 4 hours a day in direct active missionary labor.
7. T hat according to the above mentioned principles and
estimates, the following is a correct estimate;
�18
SACRED TIME.
(1831.
A ctual donation to the IJoard of 20 years time, $8,320 00
Expense previous to entering on efficient labor, 2,000 00
$10/320
W hich amount being divided upon 17 years
effective labor, gives to a single year,
To this add actual yearly expenses,
00
607 00
‘700 00
1,307 00
W hich divided upon the days of the year,
gives the expense or value of a single day,
3 55
From this deduct one third for female and
general influence,
1 18
W hich leaves $2 37, as the pecuniary val-----ue of a missionary’s four hours of labor,
2 37
that is in round numbers 60 cents per hour.
60
8. That it appears from the above, that when wTe spend a
whole day or eight hours in any labor which has no con
nection with missionary work, or which can be hired to be
done by others as well as missionaries, that day should be
considered worth $4 74, because two missionary days of
4 hours each are actually spent.
9. T hat in view of the above we consider it to be our
imperious duty, and we do most solemnly pledge ourselves
to be conscientiously scrupulous in the manner of spend
ing our time, and that we renew our promise to spend it in
that manner which our former vow s and the above calcula
tion so clearly mark out for us.
On subject no. 20, the following resolution was adopted:
Resolved, that in our instructions to the people we recom
mend the religious observance of Sabbath rather than Satur
day evening; but that while we act according to our own
private opinion in our private practice, we will, neverthe
less, refrain as much as possible from secular business on
Saturday evening.
On subject no, 21, the following preamble and resolu
tions were adopted:
W e find many reasons for retrenching, where it can
properly be done; such as,
1.
T he expectations of the Christian public, when, they
send out missionaries, that they are entering upon a seli1
\
�1 831,)
RETRENCHMENTS.
19
denying work; and their views o fth e m anner in wThieh mis
sionaries live:
2. The example of Christians in Am erica who are re
trenching, that they may have more time and money to
devote to the Lord:
3. T he self-denying examples and unparalleled success
of the M oravians:
4. T he pecuniary pressure now on the Board, which
must, from the necessity ofthe case, always rest upon them ;
the vast work to be done before the world is evangelized;
the wide fields now open to missionary effort, and the wants
of those already entered:
5. T he consideration that a large share of missionary
funds come from those who have none o fth e superfluities
and hardly all the necessaries of life:
6. T he fact, that the most cogent appeals to the Chris
tian community, not only to contribute to benevolent institu
tions, but to raise the standard of piety in general, come
from the self-denial of missionaries,
Therefore, Resolved,
1. T hat each member of the mission give in to the Agent,
for his direction in writing to the Board for supplies, an ac
count, as precise as circumstances will admit, of such articles
as he shall want, or of such articles as he can di p. rise with
for one or more years to come,
2. T hat, in supplies for food, we will substitute articles of
native production, instead of those heretofore received from
the Board, as far as can be done at a cheaper rate, without
injuring health, and without diverting us from the great ob
ject of our mission.
3
T hat we will make known to the chiefs and people, in
such ways as may be deemed best, the duty of every people
to support the Gospel themselves, and encourage them to
do this, as far as lies in their power.
4. T hat we will as individuals and as a mission, be gov
erned in all things by the principles of rigid economy, and
do all in our power to lessen the expenses of the mission, so
far as the good of C hrist’s cause in these islands will allow.
5. T hat as we frequently receive from chiefs and others
presents of a costly kind, which, if used by us may have
an unhappy effect on the minds <*f beholders, and thereby
prove injurious to our cause we therefore consider it our
duty to give instructions to the chiefs and other friends on
�20
CHILDREN OF THE MISSIONARIES.
(1 8 3 1 .
this subject, and strive to induce them to change their pres
ents to a more useful kind.
On subject no 21, M essrs. Andrews, G reen and Judd
were appointed a committee to write to the Board on the
subject.
Children o f the Missionaries.
On this subject the following resolutions were adopted:
1. Resolved, that the kindness and solicitude felt and
manifested by the Board, in reference to the condition of
the children of their missionaries, and the pledge given by
the principles they have adopted as published in the H erald
for Nov. 18 33, to meet the necessities of the case, demand
from us a tribute of lively gratitude.
2. Resolved, that encouraged as we are by this pledge
that the friends of missions will do for our offspring what
we, from the nature of our office, are by no means able to
do ourselves, we feel ourselves bound to dismiss that anxiety
for them, which may have borne too heavily on our spirits,
and to apply ourselves the more cheerfully to the care of
the many thousand children of pagans, who look to us for
pastoral influence, and parental guidance.
Presents.
On this subject the following resolutions were adopted:
W hereas there is not a uniformity of practice in this mis
sion, in relation to the resolutions recorded on the 34th page
of the printed minutes for 1830; and whereas said resolu
tions have been and are liable to be misunderstood, there
fore, Resolved,
1.
T hat we deem it inexpedient to spend our time in
keeping a definite and particular account of those light and
trifling articles of our presents, which add so very much to
their number without adding much to their value; we nev
ertheless consider it to be our duty to make a faithful gen
eral estimate of these articles according to our best judgment.
2
T hat we make a distinction between such private
presents as are made by relations and particular friends in
America, and those donations which are made at the islands,
or are by strangers sent to us as missionaries of the B oard;
�1 8 31.)
21
STANDING COMMITTEES.
the latter to be placed precisely on the same ground with
assignments from the depository, the former to be placed
entirely at the discretion of the individual receiving them,
except that they be mentioned summarily in the annual ac
count of the station.
Minutes.
V oted, that the minutes of this meeting be referred to the
publishing committee, to make selections for printing, ac
cording to their own discretion.
N ext General Meeting.
T he meeting was adjourned to meet at L ahaina, in the
first week of June, 1832.
STAN D IN G COMM ITTEES FOR
1831.
1. M essrs. Richards, Bingham and Thurston, to wiite a
joint letter, &c. P age 5.
2. Messrs. Bingham, Richards, Clark and Chamberlain,
to attend to a survey of the M arquesas islands. P age 5.
3. Mr. Richards, to write to the Prudential Committee on
the M arquesas subject. P ag e 5.
4. M essrs. Richards, Andrews and Bishop, on the sub
ject of a Vocabulary. P age 8.
5. Messrs. Richards, Bingham, Thurston, W hitney and
Andrews, on the H igh School. P age 8.
6. Messrs. Clark, Chamberlain and Andrews, to write to
the Board respecting printing materials, &c. Page 13.
7. M essrs. Bingham, C lark and Chamberlain, to super
intend the printing department. P age 13.
8. G. P . Judd, M. D ., to prepare a set of maps, and to
write to the Board respecting cuts. P age 14.
9. Messrs. Andrews, Green tmd Judd, to write to the
Board respecting books. P age 30.
�CONTENTS.
List of members present,
P ag e i
- 2~
R eception of Reinforcement,
3
List of subjects for consideration,
4
Subject no. 1.............R eport on printing,
- 5
2— Committee to write joint letter,
•
5
3 — M arquesas,
- * 6
4—P rin ter’s health,
6
5— Location of M r. G reen,
- 6
6— Location of the reinforcement,
- 7
7— Assignments of translations, &c.
8—-11
8— H igh School for natives,
11
9— N ew distribution of native books,
12
10— Foreign do.
do.
12
11— N ew plans for bookmaking,
i cy
12— Superintendence o f the press, —' 13
13— M aps and cuts, &c.
14
14— Intercourse with foreigners,
- 15
15— Rom an Catholic Mission,
16
16— M arrying foreigners,
16
17— Building for medical department,
18— D uty of churches to support the gosspel, 16
17—-18
19— V alue of M issionary time,
- 19
20— Sacred time,
.
19
21— Retrenchm ent in supplies, 20
22*—Books for translators,
20
Children of the M issionaries,
- 20
P resents,
- 21
N ext general meeting,
- 21
Standing committees,
�On the subject of trading, the following resolutions were
severally adopted:
1. T h at whereas the Prudential Committee in their public
instructions to this mission, say, “ L et it be apparent that
you have nothing to do with traffic or gain; that far nobler
objects brought you from your native land, and that you re
gard all that the world has to offer as of very little value
compared with the salvation of a single soul.” Therefore,
Resolved, that we are sacredly bound, one and all, to ob
serve the utmost circumspection in regard to trading, and
never to lose sight, either in buying or selling, of the prin
ciple brought to view in the instructions of the Board above
quoted.
2. Resolved, that no one of our number can be justified
in engaging in trade of any kind, either with natives or for
eigners, farther than will subserve the interests of the cause
which wre are laboring to advance.
S.
Resolved,that when the general good may be promoted
by the sale o f any redundant articles, or savings by retrench
ment, or as will necessarily happen,proceeds of native books,
the avails of such articles sold shall be common stock and
at the disposal of the Mission.
4.
Resolved, that in the sale of those articles which are
now becoming redundant in the mission, on account of hav
ing been received from the Board, or been manufactured on
the ground, such as beef, pork, sugar, molasses and butter,
we think 100 per cent, on the American price current is the
highest price which we can be justified in receiving.
�
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes
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1831
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EX TR A C T S
FROM
&
THE M INUTES
OF THE
G EN ER A L MEETING
OF THE
S A N D W I C H I S L A N D S M IS S IO N ,
H E L D AT H O N O LU L U ,
JU N E , 1832.
OAHU:
32.81MISSION PRESS.
��MINUTES.
H o n o l u l u , June 2, 1832.
A n e w arrangement having been made for holding the
General Meeting at this place instead of Lahaina, in con
sequence of the expected arrival of new laborers from the
Board; a meeting was convened this morning at the house
of Mr. C h a m b e r l a i n , and continued till the 23d: the fol
lowing brethren were present at the meeting:
O f the Station at
"Rev. H i r a m B in g h a m ,
u E p h ra im W . C la rk ,
a J o s e p h G o o d r ic h ,
Honolulu,
G e r r e t P. J u d d , M. D.
Mr. L e v i C h a m b e r l a i n ,
a S t e p h e n S iie p a r d ,
u A n d re w Jo h n sto n e.
( Rev. S a m u e l W h i t n e y ,
Kauai,
( “ P e t e r J . G u lic k .
C Rev. W i l l i a m R i c h a r d s ,
Lahaina,
< a L o r r in A n d r e w s ,
( u R eu b en T in k e r.
( Rev. A s a T h u r s t o n ,
Kailua,
$ a A rt e m a s B ish o p ,
C Rev. J o n a t h a n S. G r e e n ,
Hilo,
I 66 S h e l d o n D i b b l e .
Waimea,
Rev. D w i g h t B a l d w i n .
The moderator of the last general meeting called for the
ballots for a moderator:
Rev. L o r r i n A n d r e w s was chosen.
The moderator opened the meeting by prayer.
Ballots were then taken for a secretary;
�4
REINFORCEMENT.
(1832,
Mr. L e v i C h a m b e r l a i n was chosen.
Rev. R e u b e n T i n k e r was chosen assistant secretary.
The following nineteen new helpers having recently ar
rived, viz;
Rev. J o h n S. E m e r s o n ,
Mrs. U r s u l a S. E m e r s o n ,
Rev D a v i d B e l d e n L y m a n ,
Mrs. S a r a h J . L y m a n ,
Rev. E p h r a i m S p a u l d i n g ,
Mrs. J u l i a B. S p a u l d i n g ,
R ev. W i l l ia m P a t t e r s o n A l e x a n d e r ,.
Mrs. M a r y A n n A l e x a n d e r ,
Rev. R i c h a r d A r m s t r o n g ,
Mrs. C l a r i s s a C h a p m a n A r m s t r o n g ,
Rev. C o c h r a n F o r b e s ,
Mrs. R e b e c c a D. F o r b e s ,
Rev. H a r v e y R e x f o r d H i t c h c o c k ,
Mrs. R e b e c c a H . H i t c h c o c k ,
Rev. L o r e n z o L yo n s,
Mrs. B e t s e y C. L y o n s,
M r. A lo n z o C h a p in , Physician ,
Mrs. M a r y A n n T C h a p in ,
Mr. E d m u n d H. R o g e r s , Printer;
as an introduction to the business of the general meet
ing, it was Voted, that the letter of the Board to the mem
bers of this mission recently received, together with the
instructions of the Prudential Committee to the reinforce
ment lately arrived in the Ship Averick, be read: and they
were read accordingly.
Whereupon the following resolution was adopted; Re
solved, that with devout thanksgi/ing to the great Director
of all Christian Missions to the heathen for the safe and sea
sonable arrival of the fourth reinforcement to this Mission,
who arrived in the Ship Averick, viz. Messrs. Emerson,
Lyman, Spaulding, Alexander, Armstrong, Forbes, Hitch
cock, Lyons, and Chapin, we receive them as members of
this mission, and fellow laborers in the work of Christ;—
that we invite them to lake part in the deliberations of this
meeting, and to co-operate with us in all the labors and
plans of the mission for securingthe benevolent objects in
the Pacific, for which we and they are sent by the Ameri
can Board and Christian public; and that an affectionate
�1832.)
LIST OF OVERTURES.
5
salutation and welcome be extended to them, and their
companions, as helpers in the good work.
Voted, that a committee of three be appointed to confer
with Mr. Rogers, on the subject of his contract with the
Board, and of the relation which he would wish to hold
with the mission.
The Committee appointed to confer with Mr. Rogers on
the subject of his contract with the Board reported that
Mr. Rogers had made known to them his wish to be devoted
to the missionary cause, and to serve the mission as printer
or in any capacity in which he may be useful.
Whereupon the following resolution was passed;
Resolved, That we receive Mr. Rogers according to the
appointment of the Prudential Committee, and invite him
to take a seat with us and act in all our deliberations.
The committee of overtures presented the following list
of subjects for consideration;
1. Reports of standing committees for 1831,
2. Reports of stations.
3. Mission to the Washington Islands.
4. Question proposed by the Board, “ What number of
missionaries ought to be placed on the Sandwich Islands?7’
5. Method of disposing of books to the natives.
6. Support of missionaries, relative importance of fixed
salaries and ofthe common stock system, in reference to the
Sandwich Islands Mission.
7. Letter from the American Tract Society; including
the suggestions of the Board respecting assistance from
that quarter.
8. The offered aid ofthe American Bible Society for sup
plying the Sandwich Islands with the Word of God; in
cluding the general inquiry, in what manner can such for
eign aid, from any source, be most advantageously applied
to the cause ofthe mission?
9. The inquiry suggested by the Board, “ In what man
ner can the Physicians render themselves useful to the
missionary cause in the highest degree?’’
10. Public labors for the ensuing year.
11. Appropriation and sale of native books.
12. Printing department.
13. Location of new laborers.
f4. High School
�6
PRINTING.
•
(1832.
15. Encouraging industry among the common people.
16. Place for the next General Meeting of the mission.
T he following items of business were brought up on mo
tion:
The appointment of committees to reply to all communi
cations to the mission remaining unanswered.
Books belonging to the mission.
Book bindery.
On subject No. 1, most of the reports were presented
verbally, and were approved.
The following is the Report of the printing committee;
The committee of superintendence for the printing de
partment, having completed the term for which they were
appointed, beg leave to submit the following report:
At the commencement of this year, there were on hand
1257 reams of paper.
Of this, 282 reams have been used in printing;
Leaving on hand 973 reams, besides the shipments of
paper b y the Chalcedony and Averick, [6051/2 reams,] not
liere counted, but to be added to the stock for the ensuing
year.
The committee have put to press, and superintended the
printing of, the following works;
p. mo. cop.
pp.
1. Reprint of First Book for ) 36 18 10,000 360,000
‘ Children,
)
960
40
2. Minutes of Gen. Meet. 24 12
3. 2 Thess. 1 &. 2 Tim. T i-]
tus, Phil. Heb. Jas. 1 & 2 >104 12 10,000 1,040,000
Pet. 1, 2 & 3 John, Jude,
and the Revelation,
216 12 5,500 1,188,000
4. Geography,
5. 8 handbill tracts, printed ]
80,000
partly as handbills & part- ]> 8 18 10,000
Iv as a single tract,
*
60 12 5,500 330,000
6. Reprint of Acts,
12 24 3,000 36,000
1. Hymns for Children,
420
8. Decalogue, handbill with plate i
2,590
9. Bills of lading, for residents,
�1832.)
HIGH SCHOOL.
t
The expenses of the above work are as follows;
12
For paper, (j Demy,
Foo,'c’ap265
17 reams
do at 2$3 12501/2 $827
42 50
“ Composition,
- - - - - 65 90
“ Presswork, - - - - - 211 50
u Folding and Gathering,
129 70
“ Binding and stitching,
- - 52 24
e( Ink 40 lbs. at 50 cts.
- 20 00
cc Contingencies, - - - - 35 95
$1384 91
W e congratulate the mission on the arrival of a W ells’
printing press, and new fonts of types, as well as of a printer,
to facilitate the operations of this important department in
the cause of the mission.
The following is the report of the Directors of the High
School:
The Directors of the High School have little to say in
their first annual report, inasmuch as the school has been
in a broken state most of the time during the year past, or
since the School commenced, owing to the total unprepar
edness of the mission for commencing or carrying on such
a n institution.
There has been no examination of the School, owing to
the peculiar circumstances in which it has existed, and
perhaps also to the local situation of the directors.
The School commenced on the 5th of Sept. last, with about 25 scholars, chiefly from Maui. They gradually ar
rived, however, from the other Islands to the number of
sixty seven.
Four have left the school. Two at their own request;
and two were expelled.
The instruction ofthe past year has been confined to read
ing and recitations from the books read; and to oral instruc
tion from the Principal. From the utter destitution of
writing materials, as well as a place for writing, nothing
has been done in that department.
The scholars have been generally regular and punctual
in their attendance on the instructions ofthe school; obe
dient and kind in their behavior toward the Principal, and
have at all times evinced an anxious desire to learn
�8
REPORT OF STATIONS.
(1832.
The manual labor system was early introduced, and has
been continued, and bids fair, connected as it is with lite
rary acquisitions, to do much for the civilization of the Is
lands.
A school house is now erected, and covered, fifty feet by
twenty six inside, and is the fruit of their industry.
Land has been given for the use of the school; that is,
for the support of the scholars; and is free from taxes.
The religious instruction ofthe school has consisted, be
sides reading the Scriptures as a school book, in a weekly
Bible Class, which commenced at the beginning of the
Bible. This class was continued about two months, at
which time the school was deprived of a house.
On the whole, it is the opinion of the Directors that the
school has accomplished all that could have been reasona
bly expected; and the prospect is sufficiently encouraging
to warrant the persevering efforts of the mission, and the
laying out of considerable expense in carrying it on.
The Directors recommed that a course of study be made
out as soon as practicable, in order that a series of books
may be prepared.
The Directors also lay before this meeting the subject
of the manual labor system, in order that the best means
may be devised for carrying it on. This relates to the kind
of work they shall do; a supply of materials; tools for labor;
and an overseer of this department.
The Directors lay before this meeting the case of the
scholar’s wives. They are without a teacher, and without
any means of keeping pace, either in mental or physical
education with their husbands.
On No. 2, written reports were received from all the
stations, except Kaawaloa; and Messrs. B in g h a m , G r e e n ,
and W h i t n e y , were appointed a committee to write a gen
eral report to the Board.
A few particulars drawn from the station reports are ar
ranged in the following table.
�1832.)
9
MARQUESAS.
Candidates \
Whole JYo.
admitted.
Readers.
Learners.
Statistical table of Marriages, Schools, and Churches, /o r
f/ie year ending June, 1832.
c>
Islands
£
&
32 ^5s
, Marriages.
•IS
g ^3
Stations.
Kauai,
179 2,700 no ret’rns 3 5 44
Oahu,
195
388 6,526 11,000 105
'
Maui,
65
145
464 6,369
Molokai,
> 12,895
Lanai,
400
Kahoolawe,
Kailua,
179 1,145
3,450 30 26 98
Kaawaloa, no re. 150* 2,000 no ret’rns 20 14 70
8
8
Waimea,
130 2,000 no ret’rns
17
Hilo,
120 1,987; no ret’rns 4
235 45 577
Total,
1,610 23,127
* Supposed no. of marriages 150, and of readers 2,000.
Or 199, four having been transferred to Kauai.
On No. 3, the following report was adopted:
The committee appointed to examine the subject of a
mission to the Northern M aiquesas, or Washington Islands,
report, that they entered upon the investigation of the sub
ject with no ordinary feelings of solicitude, lest, in the de
cision to which they might come, they should fail to please
their Divine Master, to satisfy their own consciences and
justify themselves in the eyes of their patrons and the
Christian world. The subject has appeared dark, invol
ved, and fraught with defficulties of various kinds.
The committee, therefore, previous to stating the results
>
>
>
�10
MARQESAS.
(1832.
of their investigations, beg leave to make a few observa
tions respecting the state ofthe question; the geographical
situation of the Washington Islands; and the history of
missionary operations there.
The idea of a mission to the Northern Marquesas, from
the United States, originated in the wish of the American
Board to send the Gospel to all people; but the occasion
which led the Board to take direct measures on the sub
ject, was the representation of the condition of those Islands
by the Rev C. S. Stewart, who visited them in the U. S.
Ship Vincennes in 1829. See Stewart's Visit to the South
Seas, Vot i. p. 212. From the representations made by
Mr. S. the Board were led to say;
“ For several years the attention of the Committee has
been repeatedly called to the Marquesas Islands, as. afford
ing a field of great promise for missionary efforts, simi
lar to those which have been so signally prospered among
the inhabitants ofthe Sandwich Islands; and an interview
with the Rev. C. S. Stewart, who visited them in his late
voyage, has constrained the Committee to resolve upon
commencing a mission there, as soon as God, in his provi
dence, shall place the means at their disposal.” Mis. Her.
vol. xxvi, p. 334.
In their public letter to the mission, dated Dec. 1830,
and brought by the third reinforcement; “ From the account
given us by Mr. Stewart, as well as from what we previ
ously knew ofthe condition of the inhabitants of those Is
lands, we are very desirous that the gospel should be carried
to them speedily, and, if possible, by our instrumentality.
We should have been very glad, if Providence had enabled
us to send you five ordained missionaries, instead of three.
But we had neither the men nor the money. It is our wish,
that you should contemplate fitting out the commencement
of a mission from your Islands, within eight months, or a
year, from the arrival of these brethren, whom we now
send you.”
In a letter to Mr. Bingham, dated Oct. 3 1831, the Sec
retary, in speaking ofthe numbers ofthe fourth reinforce
ment, says; “ It is expected that some of them will ultimately
find their way to the Washington Islands.”
And in their general letter to the mission, a little more
than a month later; “ We have supposed that two of these
brethren would naturally be sent to the Washington Islands,
�1832.)
MARQUESAS.
11
where the pulic sentiment in this country, since the pub
lication of Mr. Stewart’s Journal, as well as the providence
of God, seems to require the speedy establishment of a
mission.”
From these, and other indirect statements, it appears to
be the opinion ofthe Board, and the friends of missions in
the United States, that a mission has already been planted
in those Islands; or that it will soon take place. The
Board, however, leave it entirely with the mission here, as
appears from their concluding paragraph on the subject.
“ The whole subject, however, is referred to the brethren,
for their deliberation, when they assemble to assign places
for their new fellow laborers.”
Since the Christian public in the United States are awake
to this subject, and their expectations raised, a thorough
examination should, in the opinion of your committee, be
entered into by the mission, and the reasons assigned fully:
whether the mission here does or does not establish a mis
sion at the Washington Islands.
First.—Your committee propose to examine the Geo
graphical situation of the Washington Islands, and the popu
lation.
The name, Washington Islands, has lately been given to
three small islands included in the group generally known
by the name of the Marquesas. The only reason for con
sidering them to be a separate cluster is that they were discov
ered at different times Mr. Stewart is the first writer known
to the committee, who considers them a separate cluster.
Though Mr. Ellis, who follows Mr. Stewart’s account, in
part at least, in speaking of the whole group by the name
of the Marquesas, says, “ They form two clusters, which
were discovered at different periods, and are politically,
as well as geographically distinct.” The southern cluster,
comprehending five islands, Tahuata, Hivaoa, Mohotaue,
Fatuhiva, andFetuuku.— ( See Ellis' Pol. Res. vol. Hi. p.
310. The Washington Islands, according to Mr. Stewart,
“ arethree in number; viz: Huahuka, Nukuhiva, or Nuuhiva, and Uapou, forming a triangle by their relative posi
tion to each other.” “ Huahuka is the most eastern of the
three; Nukuhiva lies about twenty miles directly west of
it, and Uapou thirty miles south of the central parts of
Nukuhiva.” Uapou, the southernmost of the Washington
Islands, according to Mr. Stewart, lies 9 deg. 32 min.
�12
MARQUESAS.
(1832.
south latitude, and about 140 deg. 10 min. west longitude.
And Tahuatathe northernmost ofthe Marquesas, according
to the Missionary Gazetteer, lies 9 deg. 55 min. south lati
tude, and 139 deg. 7 min. west longitude. Hence the
distance between the two groups is 63 miles east and west,
and 23 north and south; which, supposing the latitude to
be calculated from the centres ofthe Islands, would be about 60 miles. As to the political distinction mentioned by
Mr. Ellis, it is known to all acquainted with the govern
ments of the people of the South Sea Islands, that political
distinctions exist between one island and another; and fre
quently several independent tribes inhabit one small Island.
Hence there is probably the same political distinction be
tween one island and another in the Washington group
as there is between the Washington and Marquesas. As
to the geographical distinction, it is evident it can be nothing
more than relative, arising from the great contiguity and
smallness of the islands in the Marquesian group. For
we do not distinguish Kauai, and Niihau, and Kaula, as
a distinct group from the Sandwich Islands, though the
geographical distince from Oahu to Kauai be greater than
that from Uapou to Tahuata. Still there is no objection to
the division of the group into two clusters, provided the
proximity be kept in view. It should be observed, that
our brethren at the Society Islands make no distinction,
calling them all the Marquesas, as they speak of Ruapua
or Uapou as one of the Marquesas. See Report of L . M .
S. 1830, p. 21.
“ Nukuhiva,” says Mr. Stewart, “ twenty miles in length,
and nearly the same breadth, and having three or four
good habors on its coast, is much the largest and most im
portant of the three.” Suppose then Nukuhiva to be 20
miles long mean distance, and 19 broad; this would make
na area of 380 square miles; and supposing each of the
others to be half as large, will make as many more: in the
whole 760 square miles, or about as large as the single is
land of Maui. This certainly is a large allowance, and
probably one third at least ought to be deducted. Says
Mr. Ellis, “ The geographical extent of the group is infer
ior to that of the Georgia or Society Islands. Nukuhiva,
the largest, is much smaller than Tahiti, and probably not
more than M y miles in circumfercnce.”
“ The population,” that is of the whole Marquesas group,
�1832.)
MARQUESAS.
13
according to the Missionary Gazetteer, “ is variously esti
mated from 20 to 50,000.” And no accounts are recol
lected rating them over 50,000. This estimate was pro
bably made on the same or similar data with which other
islands of the Pacific has been made, and is, it is believed,
in all instances, where the real population has been ascer
tained, considered too high. Thus the whole population
ofthe Sandwich Islands group was estimated, and is still
retained in Geographies, at 400,000, which is at least twice
as much as it really is. If then the same proportion be
allowed, 25,000 may be the population of the whole M arquesian group. Again, if the three Washington Islands be
taken from them, leaving five islands for Marquesas proper,
not more than one half of the 25,000 ought to be allowed
as the population ofthe Washington Islands. But suppose
the highest number, 50,000, to be the population of the
whole Marquesian group, and one half be allowed to the
Washington Islands, 25,000 will be the highest population
of that cluster. It is proper to say, however, that on this
subject the committee have no data.
History of Missions to the Marquesas.
The first mission to the Marquesas was attempted in
1797, by the missionaries at the Society Islands, under the
patronage of the London Missionary Society, by Mr. Crook
and Mr. Harris; the latter immediately returned, and Mr.
Crook staid but a year. Mr. Crook resided at Tahuata,
the northernmost of the Marquesian cluster. (Miss. Gaz.
art. Christina; Ellis' Pol. Res. vol. iii. p. 319.) In 1821 the
brethren at the Society Islands made another effort to plant
the gospel on the Marquesian group of islands. “ Two na
tives from Huahine were appointed; Mr. Ellis accompanied
them, fol the purpose of assisting their introduction, and as
certaining the state and disposition of the people, with a
view to the ultimate establishment of European missionaries
among them. Circumstances occurred during the voy
age, which prevented the native teachers from settling ;*f
their original destination, and led to their residence in the
Sandwich Islands. In 1825 the attempt was renewed, and
M r. Crook conducted thither two natives from Huahine,
and one from Tahiti.” After remaining about a month
among them, holding repeated conferences with the chiefs
2
�14
MARQUESAS.
(1832.
and priests, Mr. Crook left the native teachers under the
protection of a friendly chief of Tahuata, or Santa Chris
tina.” They were soon obliged to leave. “ They were soor.
succeeded by others, who were obliged to leave in 1828.”
“ Early in the year 1829” (says the Report ofthe London
Missionary Society,) Messrs. Pritchard and Simpson visited
the Marquesas, for the purpose of ascertaining how far
the establishment of a European mission among them was
practicable. They landed on two of the islands, and had
intercourse with numbers of people on board.” After
stating some difficulties to the establishment of a European
mission there, they say: “ Two devoted native teachers,
who had labored in the island of Ruapua for two years, at
the hazard of their lives, are the only agents the Society
at present has in the islands. The Directors regard the
Marquesas as an important station.” It will be remem
bered that Ruapua, the island just mentioned where the
native Tahitian teachers have been laboring, is the same as
Uapou of Mr. Stewart, or Uahou of Mr. Ellis, and is one
of the cluster now denominated the Washington Islands.
Again Mr. Ellis says in Pol. Res. vol. iii. p. 321, publish
ed in 1831, “Recent tidings from Tahiti announce the pre
paration of one of the missionaries to visit them, (the Mar
quesas,) and settle native teachers in each island.”
The committee now turn to the efforts of the American
Board. Mr. Stewart visited the Washington Islands in
July 1829, and arrived in America in the summer of 1830.
The interest that he felt, and the exertions that he used led
the Board to write the paragraph read in the former part of
this report. This letter, dated Dec. 1830, was accompani
ed by the third reinforcement, and expresses a wish that the
gospel should be carried speedily to the inhabitants of the
Washington Islands.
Accordingly the subject came up in the General Meeting
ofthe Sandwich Islands Mission in June 1831, and several
resolutions were adopted, the amount of which was, “that
the mission considers the subject of great importance, both,
on account of its having been suggested by the Board, and
on account of its bearing on an interesting group of islands.
The mission also resolved to appoint a committee of four,
to collect facts relative to the present state of the islands,,
and on every point which has a bearing on the subject.
The above committee were empowered, either by a deputa
�MARQUESAS.
15
tion of their own number, or by any other members of the
mission, to make a survey of the islands at their discretion.
A committee of one was also appointed to address a letter
to the Prudential Committee on the subject, stating all that
was known respecting the islands, and the reasons for the
above resolutions.” Minutes of General Meeting, 1831 ,p.5.
In accordance with the above resolution, a letter was ad
dressed in the month following to the Board, stating that,
“ We are compelled to say that we do not now see the way
open for the immediate establishment of a mission to the
Marquesas Islands. W e should, however, feel ourselves
justified in making a survey if a favorable opportunity should
occur. The objections to a mission were stated to be 1st,
The necessity of chartering a vessel for the express purpose;
that it was not expedient at the present time to ask assis
tance from the chiefs of these islands; that chartering and
sailing the vessel would alone amount to $2,680, exclusive
of the outfit for the mission. 2dly, The apprehension that
families would not at present be safe and comfortable; not
so much was feared from hostile attacks, as want of com
fortable habitations and necessaries; that the situation of
those who should first go there would be far worse than that
of those who first came to these Islands, where stores were
already established, and shipping regularly arrived from
England and America. 3dly, The strongest objection is the
extreme difficulty of procuring supplies; that ships rarely
touch there directly from the United States of America, and
probably would never engage to touch there, unless at a
great expense; and 4thly, The feebleness ofthe mission here
as respects numbers; that every one of the reinforcement
was much needed at present on these islands.” See letter
of Mr. Richards, July 21, 1831.
One ofthe above committee of four also, in Sept. 1831,
addressed a letter to Mr. Pritchard, of Tahiti, stating, “ that
the American Board were desirous of establishing a mis
sion at the Marquesas, to be fitted out from these islands;
but that more information was necessary to justify a move
ment of so much consequence; that as some steps had been
taken by the missionaries at the Society Islands, to plant a
mission there, they were requested to give information to
this mission respecting the islands; the state of the people;
and also their opinion as to the practicability and expediency
of establishing a mission there, and whether they designed
�16
MARQUESAS.
(1832.
to renew their operations.” See letter of M r. Chamberlain,
Sept. 22, 1831.
Another also ofthe committee wrote to the brethren of
the Society Islands on the same subject.
In reply to these Mr. Pritchard writes, Feb. 1st, 1832;
“ Mr. Darling visited these islands last June; found the
natives far more friendly than was expected. He left five
native teachers among them, and promised that more should
be sent by that time twelve month. That they had written
to the Directors to send out European missionaries for that
group. That when the ship Duff brought out missionaries
for Tahiti, she at the same time took some to the Marque
sas. From that time to this the Directors have embraced
every opportunity of trying, by native teachers, to prepare
the way for European missionaries to reside among them.
When Mr. Williams’ vessel returns from her present voy
age, she is to take two of us to the Marquesas, to visit them
again, and make some arrangements for receiving the E u
ropean teachers that may be sent out direct to them. W e
are making every effort in our power to establish a per
manent mission at the Marquesas, and as there are many
groups of islands yet destitute of the gospel, would it not
be better to direct your attention to some other group, not
yet occupied by any other Society.” See Mr. Pritchard's
letter, Feb. 1, 1832.
Mr. Darling also, Jan. 28th, 1832, wrote as follows: “ I
lately visited the Marquesas, and left teachers at different
islands in the group. W e are preparing other teachers for
the other islands, so that we are occupying the whole of
the group. I have sent home my journal to our Society,
and with it the body of missionaries have written for six
missionaries to be sent out immediately for the Marquesas,
highly encouraged from the favorable circumstances which
I met with on my visit to the islands. W e think that if you
were to take up some of the groups of islands to the lee
ward, and leave the Marquesas to us, because it is all in
our route in visiting the out-stations that we have already
formed, and also as it may be said that we have taken up
the Marquesas, and have spent many hundreds of pounds
upon them already.” See M r. Darling's letter, Jan 28,
1832.
There is only to be added the sentiment contained in the
last letter of the Board, dated Nov. 24, 1831. They thus
�1832.)
MARQUESAS.
17
write after speaking of the names of the reinforcement.
u W e have supposed that two of these brethren would na
turally be sent to the Washington Islands, where the pub
lic sentiment in this country, since the publication of Mr.
Stewart’s Journal, ,as well as the providence of God, seems
to require the speedy establishment of a mission. The cor
respondence of last autumn has directed your attention to
those islands, and probably some incipient measures have
already been taken towards a mission. The whole subject,
however, is referred to the brethren, for their deliberation
when they shall assemble to assign places for their new
fellow-laborers.”
Sum of Evidence.
These are all the facts within the knowledge ofthe com
mittee, and they now proceed as concisely as possible to
sum them up.
1. The contemplated mission is to the Washington Is
lands, or the Washington cluster ofthe Marquesian group.
On the other hand, the missionaries ofthe London Mission
ary Society at the Society Islands make no such distinction,
they denominate them all the Marquesas.
2. The inhabitants of those islands need the gospel; they
are idolaters, living in sin; the Board wish the gospel to
be carried to them as speedily as possible. On the other
hand, the London Missionary Society have been aware of
this, and have done all in their power to send them teachers:
for thirty five years they have tried again and again to gain
access to them, and lately have found them more favorable.
3. We have missionaries now here ready to go and take
possession of the field, and they came with the expectation
of going there. On the other hand, the missionaries at the
Society Islands have written expressly for missionaries from
England for those islands, and have native teachers already
on the ground.
4. The American Churches are anxious that a mission
should be established there, and will be disappointed should
a mission not be sent. But the ground of those feelings de
pends on the statements of Mr. Stewart, and will subside
as soon as full statements of the real situation of the islands
are known,
5. The Board speak of the Washington Islands a* a
2*
�18
MARQUESAS.
(1832.
centre of great missionary operations; and wish greatly to
extend their influence. But the islands in the Southern
Pacific not occupied by the missionaries of the London
Missionary Society are few, and at a great distance from
the Washington Islands.
6. The American Board, making a distinction between
the Marquesas and the Washington Islands, consider the
latter unoccupied missionary ground. On the other hand,
the missionaries at the Society Islands consider them only
one group, and that they are all theirs by prior possession,
and have actually had missionaries on one of the W ashing
ton cluster. How far it is lawful for missionary etiquette to
go, in such cases, the committee do not express an opinion.
Besides these, which may be considered as in some
measure balancing each other, there are other considera
tions now to be mentioned.
7. The committee appointed last year to write to the
brethren at the Society Islands, have been told by them,
that “they are making every effort in their power to estab
lish a permanent mission at the M arquesas, and request us
to direct our attention to some other group.
8. The London Missionary Society have spent several
hundreds of pounds in endeavoring to establish a mission,
and their missionaries request us to leave that field to them.
9. The Marquesas are near to them; missionary opera
tions can be carried on at only a little more expense, as
they say it is in their route in visiting their out-stations that
they have already formed. W hereas they must be taken
by the American Board at a great expense, and a great ex
pense must annually be incurred to carry on the work.
10. The Washington Islands are only three in number, all
small; the population cannot exceed twenty five thousand;
and there is no fair prospect of our occupying any other is
lands near.
11. There are great objections in the opinion of your
committee to our occupying the Washington cluster, while
the missionaries of the London Missionary Society occupy
the Marquesas, arising from some differences of carrying
on missionary operations. The committee also deprecate
the idea of doing any thing to infringe upon the real or sup
posed rights of our brethren at the Society Islands, and
thus causing to cease that mutual friendship which has so
long subsisted between us.
�1832.)
MARQUESAS.
19
Wherefore in consideration of these views and statements;
1. Resolved, that it does not seem clear to this meeting,
that they are called in providence to send a mission direct
from these Islands to the Washington Islands.
2. Inasmuch as it is the opinion of the Christian church
in America, that a mission should be established on those
islands; and inasmuch as an arrangement may be made
with the brethren at the Society Islands; and inasmuch as
they have invited us to make them a visit; therefore, Re
solved, that a deputation be sent to the Marquesas and So
ciety Islands; to confer with the brethren; and collect all
the information in their power, respecting the Washington,
or any other group of islands to which they may direct their
attention: it being understood that they will have liberty to
visit any other islands at their discretion.
Those who are appointed on the mission, (in case it be
established,) may each if he choose, be ofthe deputation.
The committee recommend, that the Missionary Packet
be fitted up for the purpose, or some other vessel procured,
at the expense ofthe mission if necessary; and that the above mentioned deputation sail as soon as convenient.
Voted, that a committee of three be appointed to procure
and fit out the Missionary Packet, or some other vessel,
for the object proposed in the above report.
Messrs. Chamberlain, Judd and Johnstone, were chosen
tor the said committee.
Voted, that the mission to the Washington Islands, in
case one should be established there, consist of four persons;
three to be clergymen and one a layman; two of the cler
gymen to be of the last reinforcement, and the other, one
ofthe elder missionaries: the elder missionary to be at lib
erty to return to the Sandwich Islands, after the expiration
of a year, if he wishes to.
Messrs. Armstrong, Alexander and Chapin, were chosen
members of said mission, and on the following day the
number was completed by choice of Mr. Tinker.
Mr. Whitney was chosen as a member of the deputation.
Voted, that a committee of four be appointed to draw up
instructions for the deputation, and write a letter of intro
duction to our brethren at the Society Islands,
�20
SUPPLY OF MISSIONARIES.
(1832.
Chose Messrs. Bingham, Thurston, Andrews, and Cham
berlain.
Voted, that the deputation have the privilege of taking a
Society Island teacher now here, also one of the Hawaii
an teachers, and a native of Nuuhiva, to help them in the
prosecution of the object of their mission.
Resolved, that on the return of the deputation from the
Marquesas, the members of this station, together with such
other missionaries as may providentially be here, be a com
mittee of the mission, to determine on the expediency of
occupying the Washington Islands; and if expedient, that
they be empowered to fit out a mission accordingly. But
if inexpedient, that said committee be empowered to survey
the region of Columbia river, at their discretion.
On No. 4, the following report was adopted;
Your committee in reference to the inquiry of the Board,
“ How many missionaries ought to be placed on the Sand
wich Islands?” beg leave to report;
1. That the subject committed to them involves such a
variety of considerations that they cannot all be elucidated
in the limits of a brief report.
2. Your committee think that there are some things which
render it especially desirable that the Sandwich Islands
should receive a full supply of ministers of the Gospel and
assistant missionaries as soon as possible. For example, the
people are extremely ignorant. Although many of them
have all the knowledge absolutely necessary to salvation,,
multitudes on the several islands cannot be included in this
number. Besides, the people generally are almost wholly
ignorant of the rudiments of science, and of the arts and usa
ges of civilized life. The field is also white for the harvest;
and there is reason to think, the same amount of labor would
produce more effect now, than it will produce a few years
hence, as error and opposition may arise to retard our work.
The people are now ready to receive, with implicit confi
dence, whatever instruction the missionary is disposed to
give them; and such is their indolence that they need to be
spurred on in the read of improvement by the constant efforts
of faithful teachers.
But on the other hand, there are reasons which induce
the committee to think it not expedient that the Amer-
�1832.)
SUPPLY OF MISSIONARIES.
21
ican churches should attempt to furnish the Sandwich Is
lands with a full supply of ministers; that is, such a sup
ply as to bring the constant preaching of the gospel with
in the hearing of the whole population. The reasons
are the following; 1st, The claims of other parts of the
world, which are open for missionary operations, will not
admit of so full a supply at these islands. 2dly, If the num
ber of missionaries in this field, be increased beyond a cer
tain limit, the ratio of increase in expense will be greater
than the ratio of increase in the number of missionaries.
The reason of this is the following; As the number of mis
sionaries are increased, the stations to be occupied will be
more remote and more difficult of access; and, of course,
must be sustained ht a greater expense.
3. So large a supply of foreign teachers might possibly
create jealousy in the minds of some of the civil rulers.
4. From efforts which we are now making there is rea
son to hope that teachers, and perhaps preachers of the
gospel, will be raised up from among the natives, to supply
the more distant and thinly settled parts of the islands. And
these teachers will probably be supported with little, or no
expense to the Board.
5. With the number of ordained missionaries about to be
mentioned, your committee think the means of salvation
will be soon brought within the reach of the whole popula
tion.
6. From the above considerations, your committee think
that the Board ought to maintain at least 2 ordained mission
aries on Kauai: 3 on Oahu; viz. 2 at Honolulu and 1 at
W aialua: 1 on Molokai: 4 on Maui, or 3 ordained mission
aries and a physcian; viz. 3 at Lahaina including the Prin
cipal of the High School, and 1 at W ailuku: 7 on Hawaii;
viz. 3 in Kona, 2 at Waimea, and 2 at Hilo. The above
is the lowest estimate, and your committee think this number
should be kept good for many years to come. They wish it
to be understood, however, that there are several other places
on the islands which might be occupied; and where a minis
ter of the gospel would have a fairer prospect of reaping a
spiritual harvest than is presented to a large majority of minis
ters in our native land; but they are not prepared to say,
that the Board, considering the claims of other parts of the
world, ought to supply these places with ministers of the
gospel from America.
�22
DISPOSAL OF BOOKS.
(1833*
t. Your committee recommend, that a committee of two
be appointed to write to the Board, stating more fully the .
reasons for the above conclusion, and describing the situa
tion and wants ofthe different parts of the Islands.
Messrs. Clark and Thurston were chosen the committee
recommended in the above report.
On subject No. 5, the following report was adopted;
The committee on “ Disposal of books” beg leave to re
port, that they regard the suggestions of the Prudential
Committee in reference to that subject as highly important;
but at the same time find many difficulties in the way of a
settled plan; and are not able to point out one which will
touch the whole subject.
The getting of books into circulation among the people
is an important duty, and the gratuitous distribution ofthem
not being in general the best method, the disposal ofthem for
compensation becomes to a very great extent necessary;
and as no natives have as yet been found competent to take
the direction of that business, the business must to a certain
extent be transacted by the preachers ofthe Gospel. Yet
your committee are of opinion that great relief may be gain
ed to the missionary by employing native agents, and they
would recommend, that at every station trust worthy persons
should be sought and encouraged to engage in the business
of selling books, and aiding in the disposal of such articles
as may be received in exchange for them. As, however,
articles collected at one station may oft times find a better
market at some other station, and as the transfer, disposal
and keeping account of such articles are attended with con
siderable care and responsibility, your committee would
suggest the appointment of one of the secular men of our
number to take direction of that department, and also to aid
as much as possible in the general business of selling books,
and taking charge of avails when received, so as to relieve,
to the greatest extent the plan will admit, the clergymen of
all the stations.
Your committee would also express the hope, that the
Board will, at no distant period, be able to induce some
pious bookseller to embark in an enterprize for vending
books at the Sandwich Islands, and keeping a store for the
sale of stationery; and thus relieve the mission from much
secular care, as well as to extend to the chiefs and people
�1832.)
SUPPORT OP MISSIONARIES.
23
facilities ©f supplying themselves, at a reasonable rate, with
every thing pretaining to writing and books.
And they would here recommend that a committee of
two persons be chosen to write a letter to the Board on the
subject, giving them all the information respecting the nature
of the traffic in books and sale of stationery which we have
in our power to communicate.
Messrs. Chamberlain and Judd were chosen the commit
tee recommended in the above report.
On subject No. 6, the following report was adopted:
The committee to whom was referred the subject “ Sup
port of Missionaries, relative importance of fixed salaries
and of the common stock system,7’ having heard the discus
sion of the subject in a committee of the whole, report; that
a diversity of opinion exists in regard to it; and that in
their view a change cannot be affected at once in the man
ner of our support without involving a great increase of ex
pense to the Board; and therefore beg leave to submit the
following resolutions.
1. Resolved, that the families of the mission bestow par
ticular attention to the subject of their wants in order to as
certain what they are and what they are likely to be in
future, and that one letter at least be written from each
station to the Board to be forwarded by the fall ships, em
bodying such facts and such opinions on the subject of sup
port as the writers may think best to present.
2. Resolved, that each family comply with the regulation
of the mission passed at the last general meeting: viz: “ That
each member of the mission give in to the agent, for his
direction in writing to the Board for supplies, an account,
as precise as circumstances will admit, of such articles as
he shall want, or of such articles as he can dispense with for
one or more years to come.
3. Resolved, that the memorandums when received by
the agent shall be preserved by him to be a guide to him in
distributing supplies whether on hand or which may here
after be received.
On subject No. 7, the following report was adopted;
The committee on the subject of the letter from the American Tract Society, including the suggestions of the*
�24
TRACT SOCIETY.
BIBLE SOCIETY.
(1832.
Board respecting assistance from that quarter, beg leave to
report;
That, considering the difficulties attending the printing
of Hawaiian tracts in America, your committee are of opin
ion, that for the present the American Tract Society can
render the most efficient aid to this mission, by giving
directly to the treasury of the Board, for the purpose of
printing tracts in the Islands, agreeable to the regulations
of said society.
On subject No. 8, the following report was adopted;
The committee appointed to report on the offered aid of
the American Bible Society, and the method for applying
such foreign aid, from any source, most advantageously to
the objects of the mission, beg leave to present the follow
ing;
1. Resolved, that we regard the generous offer of the
American Bible Society to furnish 5000 dollars immediate
ly, to aid in printing 20,000 copies of the New Testament, in
the Hawaiian language,as peculiarly encouraging and grati
fying, as a pledge that the friends of the Bible in America
will not long leave the Sandwich Islands unsupplied with
the word of God; and that the Board be requested to ten
der to that Society the thanks of the mission, for the timely
and liberal aid thus furnished.
2. Resolved, that for the present, this, and all such aid,
may be most advantageously applied to the cause of the
mission through the medium of the Board, by printing the
Scriptures at these Islands; inasmuch as our means for
carrying on printing at the Islands are now so greatly in
creased, that there appears to be little immediate necessity
for employing the American press on new publications or
reprints. And it is evident, that, as circumstances are,
work can be done at the Islands with far greater accuracy
than in America.
S. Resolved, That should our presses at the Islands be
found unable to supply the demand for books, it will be
advisable to seek the aid of the American Bible Society in
the way of printing and binding the Scriptures in America,
as soon as a good translation can be prepared, and the pro
per means devised for securing correct proofs; especially
since that Society would be willing to print double the
�25
number of copies at their own presses, than they could
afford to do by means of our presses at the Islands.
4. Resolved, that the translators of the Scriptures take
courage to go forward with their work, with the hope that
money will not be wanting to print and publish as fast as
they can translate.
On subject No. 9, the following report was adopted;
The committee on the inquiry suggested by the Board,
“ In what manner can the Physicians render themselves
useful to the missionary cause in the highest degree?” sub
mit the following;
1. That in our opinion, it may be laid down as a general
principle, that it cannot be expected, men can prepare
themselves for a new and distinct sphere of action after
they arrive on missionary ground.
2. That, as far as the observation of your committee ex
tends, a very great proportion of the physician’s time is
necessarily employed in his professional duties; and in this
respect is very different from that of some physicians at
other stations occupied by the American Board.
3. Your committee are of opinion,, that no universal rule
can be laid down, that will apply to all cases; but inas
much as there is a variety of business, aside from the direct
preaching ofthe gospel, it is the opinion of the committee,
that the physician shoufd rather attend to that miscellaneous
business, than that an evangelist should be taken from his
appropriate labors, to attend to this miscellany, and the
physician spend his time in preparing to become a preacher
of the gospel.
4. Nevertheless, the committee are of opinion, that the
physician or physicians can be very useful in communicat
ing religious instruction to the people; and should spend
their time, not otherwise occupied, in that employment.
5. We recommend that a committee be appointed to
write to the Board on this subject.
Messrs. Thurston and Richards were chosen the com
mittee recommended in the above report.
»
On subject No. 10, the following report was adopted;.
The committee appointed to assign translations, anct
other public labors for the coming year, report;
That it is inexpedient to make new assignments They,
1832.)
PHYSICIANS.
TRANSLATIONS.
�26
NATIVE BOOKS. PRINTING.
(1832.
therefore, recommend, that the assignments*of last year,
which remain unfinished, be continued as before.
They also recommend, that the works now in the hands
of translators, be revised in the same manner as were the
translations of the last year: and also that the tract of Mr.
Chamberlain, be revised by the brethren at Honolulu; the
tract of Mr. Ruggles, by the brethren at Kailua; and the
tract of Mr. Green, by the brethren at Lahaina.
On subject No. 11, the following report was adopted;
The committee appointed to consider and report upon
the appropriation and sale of native books, would report;
1. That they recommend the same rate of distribution,
and the same prices of books, as was fixed upon last
year, to be continued for the year ensuing; except one tenth
of each edition to be at the disposal of the general agent,
for meeting the wants of the stations most needy.
2. That where a new station is to be taken, the supply
for that station shall be arranged by the brethren concerned.
3. That the price of a copy of the Geography, bound in
cloth, be 50 cents.
4* The committee further recommend, that a proportion
of the avails of books assigned to Maui, be appropriated to
the benefit of the High School at Lahaina, in such a way,
and to such an amount, as the Directors shall approve.
On subject No. 12, the following report was adopted;
The committee appointed to take into consideration the
business of printing, beg leave to report;
That, considering the wants of the people, and the means
put into our hands by the Board, and other Societies, for
carrying on the business of printing; they deem it highly
important, that the facilities for prosecuting the business
with vigor and dispatch, should be increased as far as cir
cumstances will admit. The committee would therefore,
recommend;
1. That the whole business of printing be carried on at
Oahu for the present.
2. That the superintendence of the department be in
trusted to a committee of four; whose duty it shall be, to
provide all the necessary means for printing; decide in what
order works previously assigned shall be put to press; read
proof sheets; and in case of failure in the supply of any
�1832.)
PRINTING.
LOCATION.
27
matter previously assigned, to make new arrangements for
a supply; and to examine and direct, in respect to any
matter to be printed, not previously assigned by the mission.
3. That no manuscript be sent to the department, to be
put in type, until the work be fully completed and corrected.
4. That the committee and printers make arrangement
among themselves to secure the prompt and accurate cor
rection of proof sheets; so that the press may be delayed
as little as possible.
5. That such repairs and such enlargement be made in
the buildings, furniture, &c., belonging to the office, as the
printers, in connection with the committee of superintend
ence, shall judge expedient.
6. That native help be employed, to such an extent, and
and on such terms, as the printers and the printing com
mittee shall think conducive to efficiency and economy, in
prosecuting the business of the office.
7. That matter assigned by the mission should have a
prior claim to all other matter which may be presented to
the comrrfittee; but, that reprints be made of parts of the
New Testament and of other works, excepting the tracts
from the Old Testament, as they shall be called for; un
less such reprinjs interfere with new matter previously as
signed by the mission.
8. Your committee deem it exceedingly desirable that
the books, or part of them at least, should be bound in
some form, before they leave the office; and considering
that many of the implements and materials for the work
are at hand, they recommend that a person be appointed, to
superintend the binding of books, to such an extent, and with
such materials, as shall be judged best by the printing
committee.
Messrs. Bingham, Chamberlain, Clark, and Judd, were
chosen the committee of superintendence recommended in
the above report.
On subject No. 13, the following report was adopted;
T he committee appointed to report on the location of the
new brethren, beg leave to submit the following;
1. That Mr. Forbes be stationed at Kaawaloa.
2. T hat Mr. Lyons be stationed at Waimea, on Hawaii.
3. T hat Mr. Spaulding be stationed at Lahaina.
4. That Mr. Hitchcock be stationed at Molokai.
�28
HIGH SCHOOL.
( 1832.
5. That Mr. Emerson he stationed at W aialua, on Oahu.
6. That, considering Mr. Green has volunteered to re
move to Wailuku, your commttee recommend, that such
an arrangement take place, and that Mr. Lyman be station
ed at Hilo.
On subject No. 14, the following report was adopted;
1. The committee appointed to consider the subjects conained in the report of the Directors of the High School,
eg leave to say that they have not had time to draw up a
course of study for the school, nor will there be time at this '
general meeting; and should a course of study be proposed,
it is doubtful whether, from want of books and other mater
rials, it could be put in practice, to any great extent, the
present year: therefore, they recommend to the Directors,
and all the mission, to keep the subject in mind, and make
such suggestions to tyie Principal, as shall appear to them
proper.
2. On the subject of manual labor among the scholars,
the committee recommend, that the Principal have power
to draw on the General Agent of the mission, to the value
of one hundred and fifty dollars, to procure materials for
work, and tools, for the several kinds of handicraft that
may be undertaken; and that the Principal, in connection
with the General Agent of the mission, have power to em
ploy, a part of the year, an ingenious mechanic, to assist
in superintending the work; it being understood that he
can employ a part of his time in laboring for the mission.
3. The committee recommend, that the Principal be al
lowed to supply stationery to the scholars, on the same
principle that is adopted for supplying learners; with books
at all the stations.
4. The committee also recommend, that Miss W a r d b e
invited to take charge ofthe school composed ofthe scholarsr
wives, for the present year.
5. The committee would further recommend, that at sta
tion schools, classes be selected and instructed in the prepar
atory studies hereafter to be required by the Directors, for
admission into the High School; and that the pupils in such
classes be held up'as candidates for that school, to enter
when duly qualified.
6. The committee would further recommend, that a new
class, of fifty pupils, at least, be admitted to the school annu
�1832.)
NEXT GENERAL MEETING.
29
ally, of such as shall be recommended by one or more of
the Directors, or by one or more ofthe members ofthe station
to which such pupils may belong, and approved by the Prin
cipal; each station or island being allowed to send the same
proportion for the present year as was allowed for the last.
Voted, to reconsider the 3d and 4th articles of the regu
lations of the High School, respecting the scholars and their
qualifications.
Voted, that the 3d article be amended to read as follows;
That after the present year, that is, from June, 1832,
the candidates for the privileges of the School, shall be ex
amined by one or more members of the station to which
they belong, aud none shall be admitted but with his or
their approbation, together with the approbation of the
Principal.
Voted, that the 4th article be suspended for the present
year.
Yoted, that the High School be supplied with books from
the reserve in the hands of the Agent, to be at the disposal
of the Principal.
On subject No. 15, the committee presented a report,
which was accepted; and after a discussion of the subject
of the report, Voted, that it lie on the table till the next
general meeting.
On subject No. 16, Voted, that the next General Meeting
ofthe Mission be held at Lahaina the first week of June,
1833.
Committees to reply to all unansivered communications:
Messrs. Bishop and Andrews were appointed to reply to
the letter from the Society of Inquiry on the subject oj
Missions in Princeton Theological Seminary, N. J.
Messrs. Tinker and Dibble were appointed to reply to
the letter from a similar Society in Auburn Theo. Sem.,
N. Y.
�30
LIBRARY.
(1832,
Messrs. Green and Spaulding were appointed to write
to a similar Society in Andover Theo. Sem., Mass.
Messrs. Goodrich and Tinker were appointed to write to
a similar Society in Columbia Theo. Sem., S. C.
Messrs. Richards and Bingham were appointed to answer
the letter from the Secretary ofthe American Tract Society,
Books belonging to the Mission.
On this subject the following report was adopted;
The committee appointed to consider the whole subject
of books belonging to the mission, beg leave to report;
1. That in their opinion, the relative situation of the mem
bers of this mission, renders it impossible that a public li
brary should exist at these Islands, subject to such rules
and regulations, as are regarded indispensible to the pros
perity of public libraries in our own country.
2. That, in the opinion ofthe committee, the greater part
of the remnant of books, now in the hands of Mr. Cham
berlain, are of no particular use to the mission, as they
are seldom removed from their places. Therefore resolved,
1. That a committee be appointed to examine the said
remnant of books, and make a selection of such as in their
opinion will be of essential value to the mission; and report
to the meeting the maner of disposing of the remainder.
2. That the books so taken from the depository, and all
others sent out by the Board, or presented by individuals for
public use, be regarded as a circulating library that all
classical works, and helps to translating and interpreting,
be retained by those who are engaged in this empolyment;
it being understood, that they shall accommodate each other
with such books as they have in their possession; and that
books of a general character shall be circulated from sta
tion to station, till all have had opportunity to read them,
when they shall be returned to the general agent.
3. That at each general meeting every member of the
mission shall make a report of the books, which he may
then have in his possession, belonging to the circulating
library; at which time new regulations, if necessary, may
be made.
4. That a committee be appointed, to attend to the la
�1832.)
BOOKS.
31
beling ofthe books belonging to the library; to make out a
list to be kept in the hands of the general agent, and to
send one to the Missionary Rooms; and that each member
be recommended to comply with the wishes of the Board
in sending a list of his private library, that the Prudential
Committee may be able to furnish the mission with the
works which are needed.
Messrs. Chamberlain, Green and Judd were appointed
to examine the remnant of books.
Messrs. Chamberlain and Johnstone were appointed to
attend to the labeling of the books.
The following resolutions were also passed;
1. Resolved, that all books purchased by individuals, for
their own use, either with their own private money or with
the money of the Board, and also all books presented to
individuals, be considered as at the disposal of those indi
viduals.
2. Resolved, that all other books be considered at the
direction of the mission, and constitute a circulating library.
The committee appointed to examine the remnant of
books, presented the following report, which was adopted;
The committee to whom was referred the business of
examining the remnant of books now in the hands of Mr.
Chamberlain, report;
That in discharging the duty assigned them, they have
selected and supposed to be selected 181 volumes for the
circulating library; that the books thus selected are to be
labeled by the individuals who have them in their possession,
to be subject to the same rules as other books in the library.
The committee recommend that the residue of these books
be referred to the care of the committee for attending to
the labeling of all books in the library, to be disposed of as
they shall think proper.
The distribution ofthe children’s books, received by the
Averick, was committed to the ladies.
The other books, received by the Averick, designed for
distribution, were referred to a committee of one member
from each station, for distribution.
�32
BOOKBJNDERY.
( J832.
V oted,' that the Sunday School books, presented to
Messrs. Armstrong and Alexander, by the American Sun
day School Union, for the benefit of Sunday Schools in the
Sandwich Islands, and by them to the mission for the same
purpose, be regarded as the foundation of a permanent Sun
day School Library, for the Sandwich Islands; and that a
librarian be appointed to take charge of it.
Mr. Chamberlain was chosen Librarian.
Voted, that the Sunday School books on missions, pre
sented by the Rev. Mr. Holmes, of New Bedford, to the
reinforcement, and by them to the mission, be added to the
Sunday School Library.
Mr. Tinker was appointed to write to the Secretary of
the American Sunday School Union.
Bookbindery.
On this subject the following report was adopted;
The committee on the subject of a superintendent for the
bindery and to nominate a person, report;
That they are unable to form any opinion as to the ex
tent of our future labors in that department, as much will
depend on the decision of the question, whether the aid
offered to us by the American Bible and Tract Societies
shall be expended in work done in the United States or in
this country. If in this country, it will, in the opinion of
your committee, be necessary to send to the Board for an
experienced’bookbinder, to be devoted to that business.
But, as both the printing department and bindery have
been conducted heretofore by one man in feeble health, we
do not doubt but that Mr. Rogers will be able to do it the
ensuing year; and also to enlarge the operations of that
department, provided the necessary materials be put into
his hands.
Therefore, Resolved, that Mr. Goodrich be requested to
provide pasteboard, and the station at Kauai, tanned goat
skins, for the purpose; and that the printing committee, on
these conditions, be responsible for a supply of stock for the
bindery.
�1832.)
DEATH OF KAAHUMANU.
S3
As a permanent provision for the department, your com
mittee recommend^that the Board be applied to for a book
binder, to be connected with the mission, or with a bookstore,
according to their judgment.
Voted, that the application to the Board for a book-binder, be referred to the committee appointed to write on the
subject of a bookseller.
Death of Kaahumanu.
On occasion ofthe decease of Kaahumanu the following
resolution was passed by the general'meeting;
Whereas, God, in his mysterious and holy providence,
has seen fit to visit this nation by a deeply affictive stroke,
which has removed by death, the Queen Regent, E l i s a b e t h
K a a h u m a n u , a distinguished reformer of her nation, a kind
friend and benefactor of the missionaries, a firm supporter
of their cause, and faithful comforter of the brethren and
ofthe infant church in these isles, in whom much confidence
has been deservedly placed by the commercial, political
and Christian world, but especially by the chiefs, people
anti missionaries of the Sandwich Islands;
Resolved, that the business of the general meeting be
suspended, till after her interment, that we may unitedly
pay to her the l&st sad honors due to her remains; and that
a funeral sermon be preached at each of the stations, as a
tribute to her worth, and as a means both of consolation to the
afflicted people, and of furthering the cause of piety and
national improvement, which was so dear to her heart, from
her conversion to her dying hour.
Concluding Resolutions.
Resolved, that we recommend to our people the Verse a
Day System for the study of the Scriptures; for the con
venience and improvement of Sabbath Schools,, and others,
who may approve of committing a verse a day from the
sacred volume.
Resolved, that while it is our main business to publish
the word of God, we will discountenance the use and cul
�34
CONCLUDING RESOLUTIONS.
(1832.
tivation of tobacco; encourage improvements in agriculture
and manufactures; habits of industry in the nation; neatness
in the habitations and dress of the inhabitants; punctuality
in all engagements, especially in the payment of debts; jus
tice and temperance in the rulers in the execution of law,
and loyalty, order and peace among their subjects, in all
the relations and duties of life.
Voted, that the minutes of this meeting be referred to
the publishing committee, to make selections for printing,
according to their own discretion; and that the number
printed be 40 copies.
�STANDING COMMITTEES FOR
1832.
1. Messrs. Bingham, Green and W hitney, to write a
general report to the Board. Page 8.
2. Messrs. Chamberlain, Judd and Johnstone, to pro
cure and fit out the Missionary Packet, &c. Page 19.
3. Messrs. Bingham, Thurston, Andrews and Chamberlain, to draw up instructions for the deputation, &c. Page
20 .
4. Messrs. Clark and Thurston, to write to the Board
respecting a supply of missionaries, &c. Page 22.
5. Messrs. Chamberlain and Judd, to write to the Board
respecting the disposal of books, &c. Page 23.
6. Messrs. Thurston and Richards, to write te the Board
respecting the Physicans employing their talents in the
best manner. Page 25.
7. Messrs. Bingham, Chamberlain, Clark and Judd, to
superintend the printing department. Page 27.
8. Messrs. Bishop and Andrews, to write to Princeton.
9. “
Tinker and Dibble,
do.
Auburn.
10. ec Green and Spaulding, do.
Andover.
11. tc Goodrich and Tinker, do.
Columbia.
12. a
Richards and Bingham, do. Am. Tract So.
Page 29.
13. Messrs. Chamberlain and Johnstone, to attend to
the labeling of the Books. Page 30.
14. Mr. Tinker, to write to the Sec. A. S. School Union.
Page 32.
15. Messrs. Chamberlain and Judd, to write to the Board
for a bookbinder. Page 33.
16. Messrs. Richards, Bingham, Thurston, Whitney and
Andrews, Directors of the High School.
17. Messrs. Richards, Andrews and Bishop, on the sub
ject of a Yocabulary.
�CONTENTS.
List of members present,
Page 3
Reception of Reinforcement,
4
List of Subjects for consideration,
5
Subject No. 1—Reports of standing Committees,
6
Report ofthe printing committee,
6
“
Directors ofthe High School, 7
2— Reports of stations,
- 8
Statistical table of marriages, &c.
9
3—Mission to the Washington Islands,
9—20
4— Supply of missionaries,
20—22
5—Disposal of Books,
- - - 22
6— Support of missionaries,
23
7—American Tract Society, 23
8—American Bible Society, 24
9— Inquiry respecting the Physicians using their
talents in the best manner,
- - - 25
10—Translations, &c., 25
1 1—Appropriation and sale of native books,
- 26
12—Printing department,
26
13— Location, - - - - - 27
14— High School,
- - - - 28
15—Encouraging industry among the common
people, - - - 29
16—Next General Meeting ofthe Mission, - 29
Committees to write letters,
- - 29
Books belonging to the mission, 30—31
Children’s books,
- - - - - 31
Books by the Averick,
- - - - 31
- - - - 32
Sunday School books.
Bookbindery,
- - - - - -3 2
Resolution on the occasion of the Death of Kaahumanu, 33
Concluding Resolutions,
- - 33
�
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes - 1832
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1832
-
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Text
EXTRACTS
FROM
TH E M IN U TE S
OF THE
G E N E R A L M EETING
OP THE
S A N D W IC H ISLA N D S MISSION,
H ELD A T LAHAINA,
J U N E , 1833.
OAHU:
MISSION PRESS.
1833.
�w
�M IN U T E S
A g e n e r a l meeting of the Sandwich Islands Mission was
convened at the Stone School H ouse in Lahaina, on the
5th of June, 1833, and continued by adjournments until
the 26th.
Members present.
Rev.
“
S a m u e l W h itn e y ,
P e t e r J . G u lic k ,
« H ir a m B in g h a m ,
u E p h r a im W . C l a r k ,
<( W m . P . A l e x a n d e r ,
a R e u b e n T in k e r ,
M r. E d m u n d H . R o g e k s ,
Rev. J o h n S . E m e r s o n * ,
“
66
H e r v e y R . H itc h c o c k .
R ic h a r d A r m s tr o n g ,
a
a
W illia m R ic h a r d s ,
L o r r in A n d r e w s,
^ K auai.
i
i
} Honolulu.
J
W aialua.
| M olokai.
| Lahaina.
E p h r a im S p a u ld in g ,
“
J o n a th a n S. G reen ,
a
a
A sa T h u r sto n ,
C ochran F orb es,
A l o n z o C h a p i n , M. D .
Rev.
“
S h e ld o n D ib b le ,
D a v id B . L y m a n ,
W ailuku.
Kailua.
| Kaawaloa.
I Hilo.
Organization o f the Meeting.
T h e M oderator of the last general meeting called lor the
ballots for a new M oderator:
Rev. A s a T h u r s t o n was chosen, who opened the meeting by prayer.
R e v , R e u b e n T i n k e r was chosen Scribe.
�4
R E IN FO RC EM EN T.
( 1833 .
Reception o f the Reinforcement.
V oted, that the last letter of the Board be redd.
T he following resolution was adopted:
W ith gratitude to the Giver of all good, and to the
American Board and the American Churches for sending
forth so opportunely to our aid the fifth reinforcement of
our Mission, viz; the Rev. B e n j a m i n W. P a r k e r and the
Rev. L o w e l l S m i t h and their wives, to labor with us in
the propagation of the gospel;
Resolved, that they be received with affectionate wel
come as members of this body and as fellow helpers to the
truth, invited tq take part with us in all the deliberations of
this meeting, and to share with us in all the toils and
privileges of the M issionary life.
Resolutions respecting M r. Fuller.
Resolved, that the mission, duly appreciating the kind
intentions of Mr. F u l l e r , to aid the missionary cause as
a missionary printer in the Sandwich Islands, affectionately
receive him to their circle, assure him of theif tender
sympathy in his disappointment and affliction, and of
their readiness .to afford him any aid in their power to
promote his comfort, restore his health, and secure his
happiness.
Resolved, moreover, that if Mr. F uller deems it neccessary, for the recovery of his health, to return to his friends
in the United States, and the physicians, and the other
brethren which may be consulted at H onolulu, approve of
his return, the G eneral Agent be authorised to secure for
him a passage.
List o f Overtures.
1. Mission to the M arquesas.
l2. Reports of Stations.
3. Reports of standing committees.
4. Location of missionaries.
5. Principles to be observed in respect to foreigners
emigrating to these Islands.
6 . Mr. J o h n s t o n e ’s connexion witb the Oahu C bairity
School.
�1833.)
M A RQ UE SAS .
7. T he erection of a reading room at Lahaina for
Seamen.
8. Assignment of public labors, translations, &c., for
the ensuing year.
9. W hat ought the mission to do further in respect to
native schools?
♦
1.— Mission to the Marquesas.
*
T h at part of the report of the deputation to the Society
and M arquesas Islands which referred to the M arquesas
Mission was read; and the committee constituted by the
mission to decide on the expediency of establishing a mis
sion at the W ashington Islands presented their report,
which was adopted; of which the following are extracts.
On the 22d Nov. 1832, shortly after the prosperous return
o f the deputation from the South, a meeting of the com
mittee embracing Messrs. Clark, W hitney, T inker, Armstong, Alexander, Bingham, Judd, Chamberlain, Johnstone,
Shepard and Rogers, was organized, and attended to a
summary statement of the deputation of the result of their
embassy, and particularly to the following resolution of the
brethren at the Georgian Islands, viz; “ Resolved, that
our American brethren be recommended to wait till we
hear from E ngland on the subject of the M arquesas mis
sion, but if this be impracticable, that "hey occupy one
group of the islands, leaving the other for our missionaries
should any be sent for that field of labor, and further in
case none be sent, that they should occupy the whole.”
W herefore the following measures were adopted by the
committee:
T he committee constituted by the mission to decide on
the expediency of establishing a mission at the W ashington
Islands, having heard the report of the deputation, and
attentively noticed the leadings of Providence ,are agreed
in the following resolutions, as expressive of our present
views on the subject, vjz.
1. Resolved, that the report of the deputation to the
Southern islands is on the whole favorable to the object of
the American Board to fit out a mission from the Sandwich
to the W ashington Islands.
2 , Resolved, that the recommendation of our brethren
1*
�(j
MA RQ UE SAS .
( 1333.
at the South to wait till they hear from England, or till
M arch or June next, though it is entitled to consideration,
is not sufficient to justify such a delay of the Mission to the
Washington Islands,provided the persons designated by the
general meeting, for that service, feel themselves, all
things considered, ready to engage in it sooner.
3. Resolved, T h at as there'is a prospect of obtaining a
speedy 'and reasonable passage for a Mission to the W ash
ington islands,and the chiefs and people theje are expecting
and desirous to receive some of our number immediately,
and are now in a favorable posture, it is desirable that the
Mission proceed without delay, provided a medical man
can be one of the number, either as a permanent member
of that Mission or as a pioneer and helper for a year.
4. Resolved, T hat for the needed medical helper the
mission look first to Dr. Chapin, and consult him freely,
and, if he cannot go, that, with the approbation of the
brethren at Maui and H awaii, application be made to Mr.
Baldwin, and if he cannot make up his mind to go, after a
free consultation with our deputation, that the invitation
be given to Dr. Judd, and should he still feel that the
obvious reasons against his going are too strong, then if
all our medical men fail, we must in consequence of this
tact, in connexion with advice from the South recommend
a postponement of that Mission till the general meeting in
Ju n e , unless e a t i n g obstacles be sooner removed, being
unwilling as a Cmnmitee to assume the responsibility of
voting to establish the mission under present circumstances
without the advantage of medical aid.
In pursuance of the above resolutions, the Committee
deputed two of their number, viz; M r. Armstrong and Dr.
Judd,to visit the windward stations, and consult the brethren
as', far as practicable, and particularly Dr. Chapin, and
Mr. Baldwin also as a medical helper for the mission, if
that should be approved by the brethrenat Maui and Hawaii,
in case Dr. Chapin could not go on account ofthe continued
illness of Mrs. Chapm.
T he deputation, having performed the tour, returned and
laid before the committee the result ofthe deliberations at
L ahaina, W aimea and Kailua, in which they assisted, and
also the answer of Mr. Baldwin;
W hereupon the committee adopted the following resolu
tion as expressive of their minds on the subject;
�1833.)
MARQU ESA S.
“ H aving heard the report of the deputation appointed to
confer with our brethren at the windward, and considered
the obstacles to an immediate establishment of a mission at
the W ashington Islands as expressed in the minutes of their
proceedings;
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this committee that
the subject should be postponed till further light is thrown
upon it, or till a general meeting of the mission#shall re
sume it.”
T h e committee felt that further light was needed to
w arrant them in taking more efficient measures.
Two of the brethren have subsequently received letters
from M r. Prichard, dated about the first of M arch, by which
we learn, that no information had been communicated to
them by the London M issionary Society, no missionaries
had been sent; and he thinks it most likely, that they will
send none, supposing they must have heard what our
Society is doing.
T h e committee have moreover, heard that the chiefs
and people at M assachusetts bay are expecting missiona
ries to arrive soon from this quarter, and have built a house
for their reception, and that 16 ships have recruited there
this season. T hey have also learned that the Board feel
em barrased in reference to an immediate establishment of a
mission there, but are still holding it in contemplation, and
are corresponding writh the London M issionary Society on
the subject. It remains, therefore, for the committee re
spectfully to refer the whole subject to the General Meeting.
T he following resolutions were then adopted:
Resolved, that we do not consider the prospect that tin*
London Missionary Society will occupy the M arquesas
P roper a sufficient objection to our immediately occupying
the W ashington group.
Resolved, that, in case we determine to occupy the W ash
ington Islands, we address a letter to the missionaries of the
Georgian Islands, and also a letter to the London Mission
ary Society, giving a statement o fth e reasons which lead
us to believe it inexpedient for both Societies to send
missionaries to the M arquesas Islands.
Resolved, that this mission in reliance on Divine Pro
vidence, proceed forthwith to establish a mission at the
M arquesas Islands.
�8
MARQUESAS.
(1833.
Resolved, that the mission consist of three clergymen
and one physician, if they can be obtained.
Messrs. Alexander and Armstrong being chosen last
year, stood as members of said mission.
Resolved, that considering the changes in the circum
stances of the mission, and the increasing light on the
subject of his personal duty, the vote of the last general
meeting, appointing M r. T in k e r a member o fth e mission
to the Washington Islands, ought to be ar d is hereby
rcscindf'd.
Mr. P a r k e r was unanimously chosen as the third clergy
man.
Resolved, that, in view of the ill health of Mrs. Chapin,
it is not expedient to consider Doct. Chapin any longer a
candidate for the W ashington Islands mission.
The question whether the members of the W ashington
Islands mission should proceed without a physician being
referred to the brethren appointed for that service, they
decided that the want of a physician should not prevent
their undertaking the mission; but they requested that the
Board might be immediately written to for one.
W hereupon the following resolution was passed;
W hereas the mission is not able at present to send a
physician to the W ashington Islands, and the three brethren
designated to that field have expressed a willingness to go,
relying on Divine Providence, without the immediate aid
of'a physician;
Resolved, therefore, that Mr. Baldwin, who is provi
dentially detained from the meeting,be no longer considered
a candidate for that service; but that application be made to
the Board to send a medical man to that station by the
earliest opportunity.
Resolved, that the Secular Agent of this mission be
authorised to make arrangem ents without delay for fitting
out and convey ing a mission consisting of three families to
the Washington Islands as early as they can be conveniently
ready.
Resolved, that the brethren o fth e mission to the W ash
ington Islands be authorised to purchase supplies or borrow
money at their descretion from any person or persons touch
ing at their station, and draw orders for the same on the
Secular A jen t of this mission.
�1333.)
9
REPORTS OF STATIONS.
Messrs. Alexander, Armstrong and P ark er then re
quested leave of absence from the general meeting, in order
to prepare for the contemplated mission to the W ashington
Islands, which was granted.
A letter was written to be sent to the London Missionary
Society, and to the missionaries of the G eorgian Islands,
giving a statement of the reasons which lead this mission to
believe it inexpedient for both Societies to send missiona
ries to the M arquesas Islands.
2.— Reports of Stations.
W ritten reports were received from all the stations; and
a general letter was written to be sent to the Board.
A few particulars drawn from the Station Reports are
arranged in the following table;
no re
76
C
D1
CO
s*
K auai,
W aialua,
H onolulu,
L ahaina,
W ailuku,
Molokai,
K ailua,
Kaawaloa,
W aim ea,
H ilo,
T otal,
221
139
no re
76
117
174
201
1290
2977
1600
3100
1818
731
500
1099
2500
3000
2859
20184
no re
5000
4295
no re
no re
no re
2249
no re
5490
no re
Mmitted to
the church.
| Candidates. |
Whole JYo.
admitted.
Learners.
Stations.
Readers.
1
M arriages.
j
Statistical table o f M arriages, Schools,and Chur ches, fo r the
year ending June, 1833.
6
50
8
209
42 '40 187
2
9
14
104
85
17
1
: ? 44 ~669
* 11 members have been transferred from the church la
K ailua to that in W aim ea, making 19 in all.
�10
HIGH SCHOOL.
( 1833,
3 .— Reports o f Standing Committees.
Most of the Reports were presented verbally and were
approved.
The following is the R eport of the D irectors of the
High School:
T he Directors of the H igh School, at the close of the
second year of its incipient operations, which have been
carried forward, under very many and great em barrass
ments, for the want of books, apparatus, rooms, & c.,so
needful to the comfort and highest usefulness ofthe principal
and to the general and early success of the undertaking, beg
leave to lay before the general meeting of the mission the
following R eport on the progress and state ofthe School, its
immediate wants,and the means to be employed for its future
advancement, both more immediate and more remote.
This they do with the more freedom and satisfaction
from the belief that success in this enterprise is attainable
by well directed, untiring and persevering efforts, crowned
with G od’s blessing, without which our attempts to enlight
en and reform the nation are utterly in vain; and from the
firm hope that the mission as a body, encouraged not only
by the manner in which the Principal has addressed himself
to his toilsome task, encompassed with depressing em
barrassments, and by the pleasing evidence of advance
ment made by the pupils in reading, writing, gramm ar,
arithmetic, and geography, copying maps, &c.; but by
the approving voice and co-operating influence of the
American Board; and urged by the darkness and desola
tion of the land, and the increasingly obvious need of such
an Institution, to raise up competent teachers for the people,
and awaken the needful interest in our station and other
schools in favor of mental and moral improvement, will be
disposed unitedly to contribute their general influence, and
to adopt efficient measures for carrying forward the opera
tions of the School and securing its future anticipated
results.
T he details of the history ofthe School for the past year,
the Directors will present in the language of the Principal,
extracted from his report to them.
“ All the affairs of the H igh School,on which it is the duty
of the Principal to report to the D irectors, may be divided
into two classes, external and internal.
�1833.)
HIG H SCHOOL.
11
1.
O fth e external affairs o fth e H igh School, from July
% 1832 to M ay 31, 1833. T he first session o fth e High
School for the year just passed commenced on the 2d of
Ju ly , 1832, and continued until Novem ber 30. T h e se
cond session commenced the first day of January, 1833*
and continued until M ay 31. D ecem ber last was spent as
a vacation month.
T h e number o f scholars at the commencement of the
year was 61. Two, however, from O ahu, had entered
some time previously, whose names were not on the roll,
but who were counted in the report of the last year. These
two just mentioned were the only new ones that entered
during the first session, increasing the number of scholars
to 63. T he new class of 50, recommended by report of
committee, to enter the school, did not arrive in season to
enter the first session. Several indeed arrived from Kauai,
one or two from H aw aii, and five or six from Oahu, besides
th e K ing and several of his men. But on account of the
unfinished state of the School H ouse, the inabilily of the
Principal to give instruction to so many without any facilities
for instruction, the dislike of some of the scholars who
cam e, to the m anual labor system, the fear of hunger in
others, besides many other causes not easy to mention, it
was thought best not to receive any during the first session.
At the commencement of the second session and soon
after, scholars entered the school as follows; four from
Hawaii, nine from Maui, two from Lanai, two from Molo
kai,ten from Kauai and one from the Society Islands.— In all
28. There have, therefore,been in the school,in the course
o f the year, ninety one scholars. Of these, one has been
taken from the school by the civil authority for stealing;
three have been obliged to leave the school on account of
sickness, or the care of their families; and one requested
permission to leave the school a few days since, reason not
assigned; and one has died. The number of scholars now
belonging to the school is 85. The King did not see fit to
avail himself of the offer of the mission, when the school
commenced, to attend with five of his favorite men, though
he was invited to do so.
Nothing has been done systematically during the last
year in the manual labor department. The committee,
authorised by the last general meeting to employ an in
�12
HIGH SCHOOL.
( 1833-
genious mechanic, to take charge of this departm ent, failed
in their attempt to procure the services of the person in
view. This, together with the inability of the Principal to
oversee both departments, left the scholars to act their
pleasure. It is but justice, however, to say that something
considerable has been done. At the close of the school
last year the walls of the school house were up, and the
roof on. Immediately after the school commenced in July
the scholars of their own accord commenced erecting per
manent writing tables. School was suspended several days,
while the scholars went to the mountains for plank and
timber. N ext they laid the floor of stone a little hewed
and pointed with lime. About the first of A ugust the
school was removed, for a w eek, into L ahaina, while the
scholars collected coral for lime, and a part of the week
following was dismissed, while they went to the mountains
for fViel to burn the lime. In the course of a month or
two the school house was plastered by them outside and in.
After this seats were made for sitting at their writing
tables, the window shutters, door, &c.; but for want of
information, ©r industry, the house was not so far com
pleted as to be able to introduce writing on paper until
within two months past.
T h e Principal is not able to say to what amount he has
drawn on the G eneral Agent of the mission for tools and
materials for work, inasmuch as he has no bill of the articles
furnished. Tools to some amount have been furnished.
An unfinished turning lathe has also been received.
About the first of May of the present year, the scholars
proposed of their own accord, to build a work shop. At
this the scholars of the first year have done something.
The foundation is in part laid. P art of the dobeys are
made for the walls. T h e building is to be 96 feet in length
by 18 in width in the inside. A t the same time the new
scholars commenced collecting stones for a new school
room. N early enough are supposed to be collected for
the body of the house. T h e cultivation of their lands has
been attended to more than the year before. B ut for want
of skill, foresight, management, and on account of the
number of servants they keep, the scholars are by no
means supplied with food from the land under cultivation.
The chiefs have done considerable in this respect; but
�1833.)
HIGH SCHOOL.
13
much more for some than others. The Kauai scholars, it is
believed, have not been so well provided for as the scholars
from other islands.*
2. O f the internal regulations of the school during the
past year.
The first session of the past year was spent in reading the
geography, in studying grammar on the inductive plan, and
the H elu Kamalii. T he scholars refused to be taught by
monitors; hence, by endeavoring to intruct 60 scholars in
one class, so as to accommodate the lowest capacities, their
progress was exceeding slow. Something was done towards
studying geography from questions on the map of the globe.
At the close of the session an examination was had in
reading, writing on slates, principles of grammar, child’s
arithmetic, and questions on the globe.
On the commencement of the second session in January,
the school consented to be taught by monitors, as it was
manifest the Principal could not personally teach both the
new scholars and the old. The school was, therefore, re
modeled; the Principal giving instruction to the monitors
in a school by themselves. The study of the Helu Kama
lii was finished. The study of grammar was continued a
week or two, and then dropped. The monitors, however,
in the place of it, assisted in reviewing a translation of
* Expenses of the High School, as per account, of the
Secular Agent:
A turning lathe made at Honolulu,
Tim ber, &c.
$22 35
W ork of carpenter in part,
3 77
Iron work, including $ 3 25 adv.
for cash,
51 23
Paid a carpenter employed to fin
ish the lathe, including 20 per cent ad
vance on cash,
42 00— 119 35
A small iron turning lathe purchased at Lahaina for §45 00, including 20 per ct.
for cash paid at Honolulu,
54 00
Tools, &c.
82 30
Stationery,
21 33
$276 98
�14
HIG H SCHOOL.
( 1833,
Colburn’s Intellectual Arithmetic, which was a little more
than half finished, and then dropped. T he geographical
questions on the maps have been continued, and five of the
seven classes have gone through with topo-graphical geo
graphy on the maps. On the first of April, the school
commenced writing on paper. About the middle of May
they commenced drawing maps.
T he only new books received in time to benefit the school
during the past year, are the H elu ICamalii and the geo
graphical questions.
Religious instruction has been but little attended to.
The formation of a regular Bible class was put off from
time to time, with the hope that soon the house would be
finished. Another difficulty was the same as last year, the
want of paper and a place to write upon, for writing Bible
questions, &c. Sincc the publication ofthe Ai o ka la, the
school has been opened every morning by the recitation of
the verse for the day, and questions asked, and explanations
given when necessary.
It is the opinion of the Principal that four months out of
ten have been lost to the scholars for want of books. F or
want o f books the scholars cannot study out of school; and
if the school hours be lengthened, the Principal has no
time for the preparation of proper studies of the school,
much less to prepare books. T he average amount of time
spent each day in school is about five hours.”
T he D irectors would submit to the attention of the mis
sion the following subjects, together with their recommen
dations respecting them, viz:
1. T he M anual Labor System.
2. Appropriations for the ensuing year.
3. Aid to be sought.
4. T he Studies to be introduced for disciplining the mind.
5. G eneral method of supplying the school with books
on the subjects designed to be taught in the school.
6. Destination of the pupils.
1.
M anual Labor. The Directors would cheerfully re
commend, that the manual labor system, as a means, both
of desirable improvement and self-support, be carried for
ward in connexion with the studies of the school; and to
facilitate the operations of this departm ent, as well as to
aid the secular affairs of the establishment, the Secular
�1833.)
HIG H SCHOOL.
15
A gent of the mission be authorised and requested to
engage, for an economical compensation, an artisan of
approved character, as to ingenuity, industry, patience,
kindness, and hopeful piety, to oversee the work, take
charge of the stock, tools, &c., and keep them in order,
and also to do, so far as he is able, such work in the
construction and improvement of buildings, apparatus, fur
niture, &c., as shall be deemed needful and expedient by
the Principal for the real benefit of the school; it being
understood that if he cannot have full employment for the
school, he may labor a part of the time for the mission,
where he can advantageously render assistance.
2 . Approp riations for the ensuing year.
T he D irectors recommend, that from 300 to 400 dollars
be appropriated to pay the artisan, and that the mission
moreover furnish his board.
T h at 150 dollars be appropriated to procure lumber for
buildings for rooms for lectures, for museum of foreign and
native curiosities, and apparatus.
T h at 100 dollars be appropriated to procure tools and
stock for the work shop.
T hat 100 dollars be appropriated to procure a good toned
bell of su itable siz e; unless a bell of 100 or 150 pounds, can
be more advantageously furnished within a moderate period.
T h at 100 dollars be appropriated for miscellanies, in
cluding a series of weights and m easures,and a set of coins
of different countries.
And that the appropriations of books and stationery last
year be considered as equally available the present year.
3. A id to be sought.
Believing that considerable aid may, by suitable m ea
sures, be obtained without diminishing the resources ofthe
Board, we recommend that the Directors be authorised to
write a circular, to be sent to the Missionary Rooms rela
tive to the origin, progress, wants and prospects of the.
school, and to solicit aid in funds, books, maps, charts,
chemical, philosophical, and astronomical apparatus, mineralogical specimens, curiosities, &c., particularly of the
friends of literature and science.
4. Studies to be introduced for disciplining the mind.
On this subject no plan is fully matured as to its details;
but in general the D irectors recommend as the best means
�16
HIGH SCHOOL.
(1833.
of mental discipline that the studies em brace those of
natural and moral science, and the languages5 and that text
books be made out for that purpose, as shall be found
practicable on the several branches; it being understood
that the study of the languages, particularly the original
languages of the scriptures be entered upon by a few in
dividuals as an experiment.
5.
General method of supplying the school with books
and other means of studying the subjects designed to be
taught in the school.
T he D irectors recommend that the Principal devote spe
cial attention to the subject of preparing studies, availing
himself of the aid of his best pupils both in arranging and
communicating them; and that the missionaries, who are
able, wherever they are stationed, hold themselves in
readiness, at the request of the Principal, to assist in pre
paring books, tracts, maps, drawings, and other means of
improvement for the benefit of the school; and that on the
arrival of another press for the mission, one of the Ram age
presses now at the office, be sent to the H igh School, and
put in working order, with a small font of type which may
be the most conveniently spared sufficient at least for one
form, to facilitate the preparation of studies, books, tracts,
handbills, cards, diagrams, &c., particularly for striking off
proofs, schedules, &c., for the immediate use of the classes;
it being understood, that copies of such productions, as are
likely to be more generally useful, shall be sent to the
printing committee of the mission, to be printed at their
discretion, for the benefit of select, station, and other schools
in the islands.
(S. T he Pupils and their destination.
T he Directors would recommend, that if any pupil shall,
after a reasonable probation, appear to the Principal to be
incapacitated to derive material benefit from the course of
instruction to be pursued, measures should be taken kindly
to withdraw him from the school, that he may not em barrass
the efforts of the Principal, nor retard the general progress
of his class: and that if any pupil shall appear to be re
fractory and materially injurious to the morals, the govern
ment, or the progress of the school from unworthy motives,
he should be, after unsuccessful admonitory measures,
expelled;— and further, that the Principal and the mission-
�1833.)
PR I N T I N G .
17
aries should endeavor to hold up before the scholars def
inite objects at which they are to aim in future life; and
that fields of future action, and distinct spheres of usefulness
be prepared for them, to stimulate their efforts, and to guard
them against relapsing into original sloth from the love of
indulgence, and falling into fatal snares from the mere pride
of distinction: for although solid attainments in science and
learning tend to humility, by showing the possessor how little
he knows compared with what may be known,a smattering of
knowledge puffeth up; and a trifling distinction of a Sand
wich Islander, from his fellows,or his countrymen, if noticed
kindly by the chiefs, exposes him to injury and ruin.
Finally, the D irectors commend the infant Institution to
the fostering care of Providence, and to the prayers of the
friends of the H aw aiian nation.
T he following is the report of the Printing Committee:
T he committee of superintendence for the printing
department beg leave to submit the following report:
At the commencement of the present year the facilities
for carrying on the business of printing were considerably
increased, and consequently much more work has been
done in the office than during any preceeding year.
T here were on hand at the commencement of the year
1578 reams of paper. Received since by the M entor 329
reams, and by the Rasselas 50 do. M aking iu all 1957
reams. O f this 682 reams have been used; leaving on
hand at the present time 1275 re'ims.
During the year the committee have superintended the
printing of the following works:
�13
(1833,
PR IN TI N G.
mo
24
Child’s Arithmetic, (Foiole's,)
M arquesas Spelling Book,
16
First Book of Elem ents,
18
12
A cts of the Apostles,
Catechism on the book of Genesis, 16
Scripture History (reprint,)
18
Part of the book of Numbers,
18
Romans & 1 & 2 Cor. (reprint,) 12
Daily Food, (extract from Acts,) 18
Childs Arithmetic, (reprint,)
24
T ract on M arriage,
12
intellectual Arithmetic-. (Col
18
burn's,)
12
Book of Deuteronomy,
First book for Children, (reprint,) 18
Catechism, (reprint,)
18
Spelling Book, (do)
18
Geographical Questions,
1 12
Gamut and music engraved,
8
18
Covers for different books,
Decalogue, (handbill,)
12
M inutes of General M eeting,
Various small works amounting to
P Copies
60 3,000
16 1,000
108 16,000
64 10,000
56 10,000
144 10,000
80 10,000
72 10,000
36 20,000
48 10,000
12 10,000
p. p.
180,000
16,000
1728.000
640.000
560.000
1440.000
800.000
720.000
720.000
480.000
120.000
64 10,000
640.000
10,000 760.000
10,000 360.000
10,000
80,000
10,000
30.000
24 4,000
96.000
8 2,000
16.000
2
i! 58,000
1,000
76
36
8
8
36
,9581,
40
166040
1,440
, 22,120
Most of the above mentioned works have been folded
and stitched. About 3000 Geographies and 200 Historical
Catechisms have been sewed and put up in cloth. Aboui
400 N ew Testam ents have also been bound, most of them
in goat’s skins tanned at Kauai,which answer every purpose.
T he expenses of the above works have been as follows
12 £ $1734 37
F o- P aner } l)cnly’ 555 ream s>at :
P ’ Foolscap, 127 do.
50
317 50
Composition,
, 105 50
a Press work,
439
Folding, gathering, binding and stitching, . 541 5C
J
Ink, 75 lbs., at 50 cts.
37 50
Rollers,
.
.
.
.
.
.
15 00'
W arehouse work,
.
104 lb
fn part for support of printers,
. 5 3 1 0°2
Implements and materials for bindeiry,
55 0b
205 67
Repairs, furniture, and contingencies.
$408787
�LOCATION.----EMIGRANTS.
19
T h ere are now no original works in the hands ofthe com
m ittee, and no work in the press except the Historical
Catechism, and that is nearly all in type.
Some additions have been made to the furniture, &c.,
of the printing office during the year, and still more to the
implements and materials tor carrying on the business of
bookbinding.
Mr. R ogers has been able to devote his whole time to
the printing office and bindery. Mr. Shepard’s health has
been very feeble, but he has been p’ole to do considerable
by overseeing the boys in the office, and reading proofs.
It is expected a new press will soon be added to the office.
4 .— Location o f Missionaries.
T h e following report was adopted;
T he committee on location beg leave to say, that they
have considered the claims of different Islands and Stations,
and recommend the following as in their opinion best
suited to further the progress of the gospel on the Islands;
1. T hat Mr. Smith be stationed at Molokai.
2 . T hat Mr. T inker be stationed at W ailuku.
3. T hat Doct. Chapin be stationed for the present at
Lahaina.
5.— Principles to be observed in respect to foreigners emi
grating to these Islands.
On the question, “ W hat principles shall we adopt in
respect to foreigners emigrating to these Islands?” the
following report was presented and adopted;
T hat as advice has been requested of this mission as to
the expediency of giving encouragem ent to a colony from
.the U nited States settling at these Islands, to aid indirectly
in civilizing the people, and as individuals also have re
quested light on this subject in relation to their own duty;
therefore, resolved,
1. T hat our relation to this people as pastors and teach
ers, renders it inexpedient for us to give direct advice to
any who may be desirous of emigrating to these Islands.
2 . T hat in answer to inquiries made on the subject, in
formation be commtinicated respecting these Islands, in
�20
OAHU CHARITY SCHOOL.
(1833.
eluding an account of the soil, productions, and clim ate; of
the state of commerce; of the civil and political affairs of
the nation; of the probable reception of a colony by the
chiefs and people, and of the prospect that such a colony
would be useful or otherwise: in short, that every facility
in our power be furnished for enabling all who are wishing
to visit these Islands to aid in civilizing the people, to make
up their minds understanding^, and act, on their own
responsibility, as their judgment shall dictate.
3. T hat if we shall
any time be solicited by the chiefs
to give advice on the subject of encouraging foreign res
idents among them, we feel at liberty to furnish them with
all the information in our power respecting the character,
views, wishes, and probable influence of persons emigrating
to their shores; while at the same time we cautiously refrain
from giving advice as to the encouragem ent they may give
to such emigrants.
4. T hat we exhibit towards pious visitors and residents
not only kindness and love as Christian B rethren, but as
ministers of the gospel watch over their souls with that
unremitted vigilence and solicitude which is so peculiarly
necessary in this land of temptation.
5. In respect to foreigners generally, that we lift up our
earnest and importunate cries to God in their behalf, and
make strenuous exertions for their salvation, in accordance
with the plans and wishes of the Rev. M r. D iell,and the in
structions of the Prudential Committee; feeling ourselves
called upon, in addition to other motives, by a no less
consideration than the temporal prosperity and eternal wel
fare of this nation.
f>.— M r. Johnstone'’s connectionivifhthe Oahu Charity School.
The Committee to which was referred the subject of
Mr. Johnstone’s connection with the Oahu Charity School
recommended the following resolution, which was adopted.
W hereas attention to the rising generation has ever been
deemed a matter of prime importance in the mission from
its commencement, and the increase of the number of
foreigner’s children increases the importance of attention to
them ; and whereas very considerable efforts to provide the
means of instruction for that class o*‘the rising generation
�1833.)
READING ROOxMS.
have been made by the residents, who have expressed a
wish to engage M r. and Mrs. Johnstone as instructors, and
generously offered to provide for their support in the work
which they have so satisfactorily begun, and which they are
ready to pursue;
F esolved that the mission approve of Mr. and Mrs.
Johnstone’s continuing their attention to the instruction of
the children of foreigners, making annually such a report to
the mission ofthe school and their labors as is required of
the rest of our number in our respective spheres of action.
7.— The erection o f Reading Rooms at Lahaina fo r Seamen.
T he committee appointed to report respecting the erec
tion of reading rooms for seamen at Lahaina, submited the
following resolutions, which were adopted.
W hereas the average number of seamen belonging to
130 ships touching at this port within 15 months past have
been about equal to 100 men, or four ships constantly in
port during this period; and about that average number
may be expected hereafter; that they are often destitute
of suitable means of employment while on shore, and are
not usually well supplied with books,tracts and periodicals;
and whereas, by experiment it is found that a considerable
number are disposed, partly from inclination and partly
because ro ordinary houses of entertainment for seamen
are open at the place, to frequent rooms where the privilege
is afforded, of reading and instruction, shelter from the sun,
and the refreshment of cold water freely offered; and
whereas a suitable site can be obtained for the purpose in
connection with a store house for the mission, near the
m arket and watering place, convenient for the superinten
dence of one o fth e missionaries; Therefore,
Resolved, 1. T hat this mission consider the erection of
reading rooms for seamen at Lahaina as highly important,
both for the good of seamen in particular, and o fth e cause
of improvement in general at the islands.
2 . T hat it be the duty ofthe brethren at Lahaina to con
sult freely with the Rev. Mr. Diell on this subject,and ascer
tain whether he will assume the responsibility of furnishing
such rooms at the expense of the A. S. F. Society.
3. In case M r. Diell should decline doing this, that the
station at L ahaina be authorized to erect, at an expense to
�GK>
TR ANS LAT IO NS, &.C.
( 1833.
the mission not to exceed $ 200, two convenient and per
manent reading rooms, one for masters and mates, and the
other for seamen, receiving such aid to cover the expense
as may be furnished gratuitously either by the A. S. F.
Society, the chiefs,or other individuals friendly to the object.
8.— Assignment o f jmblic labors, translations fyc, fo r the
ensuing year.
T he following report was adopted.
T he committee to whom was refered the assignment of
labors for the ensuing year, beg leave to report in reference
to translations, revisions, compilations, &c. to be completed
or undertaken for the press,the following recommendations:
1. T hat the revision of the four Gospels be thoroughly
completed agreeably with a former arrangem ent, together
with Romans and the last 8 chapters of Acts, and that ob
vious errors in the remaining portions of the N ew T est,
be corrected by the translators; that a new and uniform
edition of 10,000 copies may be issued during the year to
meet the immediate demand.
2 . T hat the omitted passages of Genesis be translated,
correcting at the same time the errors in the former impres
sion, that the work may be printed entire.
3. T hat the Hook of Psalm s be revised and printed
entire.
4. T hat Judges, Ruth, 1st and 2d Samuel,and 1st K ings
be completed by those who have them in hand.
5. T hat 2d Kings be translated by Mr. Thurston.
6. T hat the works on civil and ecclesiastical history be
carried forward to 150 or 250 pages 18 mo. for publication.
7. T hat the geography be revised by M essrs. W hitney
and Richards.
8. T hat a set of maps already undertaken be completed
by Messrs. Andrews and Judd, to be forwarded by the
committee to the M issionary Rooms.
9. That a translation of H olbrook’s first lessons in geo
metry and the Missionary Catechism be completed by
Messrs. Andrews and Richards.
10. T hat a translation of Colburn’s Sequel to mental
arithmetic be made by M essrs. Bishop and Andrews.
11. T hat the second number of Jliokala or D aily Food
�1833.)
N AT IV E SCHOOLS.
23
for 1834, be prepared with brief notes and references by
M r. Andrew s; to be ready for distribution by the first of
D ec. next.
12. T hat m aterials for the first number of a Hawaiian
Christian A lmanac, embracing a calendar, notices of eclipses, useful hints and facts; historical and chronological
notes, statistics &c., be collected and arranged by M essrs.
C lark and Tinker, and revised by Mr. Bingham for 1834,
if practicable, and if not, for 1835.
13. T hat a tract on Juvenile improvement be written by
Mr. Dibble and revised by Mr. Andrews.
14. T hat M r. Richards revise his sermon on the evils of
intemperance in the use of tobacco for a tract.
15. T hat former appointments unfinished, and not no
ticed above as bookkeeping, music-book, gramm ar, voca
bulary, volume of sermons &c. be continued.
9.— Native Schools.
On the question, “ W hat ought the mission to do further in
respect to native schools?” the following report was present
ed and adopted;
1 Believing that our success as teachers of the Christian
religion depends in no small degree upon the blessing of
God on well directed, vigorous and persevering efforts to
qualify native teachers for the duties of their station, to
train the rising generation to habits of reading and reflec
tion, and thus to raise the entire population ultimately
from their degradation; therefore,
Resolved,in order that we may make the best distribution
of our time and strength,and also give the people a specimen
of our method of constructing school houses and communica
ting instruction; that the members of each station be allowed
and recommended to build a convenient school house, and
to seek every facility they may deem desirable for aiding
in this department of labor; that the teachers and people be
invited to aid to the extent of their ability in providing these
conveniencies; but where the people have not the means ot
furnishing materials such as glass, nails &c. each station
be allowed to appropriate such articles, belonging to the
mission,to an amount not exceeding twenty dollars, provided
that such articles are not likely to be soon needed for the
�24
MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS.
(1833.
personal comfort and convenience of any of our number.
2 . Though we believe that it would be inexpedient at
present to compensate natives for their services as school
teachers to their own countrymen, yet that we may stimu
late both teachers and their pupils to press forward in the
march of intellectual improvement;
Resolved, that each station have the privilege of bestow
ing a small premium of books on teachers, who are most
faithful in the discharge of their duties, and on schools,
which make the most rapid improvement.
3. Resolved, moreover, that we class none in our schools
as readers who cannot read intelligibly any portion of
scripture pointed out to them; and that in each annual
report we severally make a definite and full statement of
the labors bestowed upon station schools, the plan pursued,
the methods of instruction, and the results of our efforts.
MI SCELLANEOUS
BUSI NESS.
Correspondence.
T he following letters were read before the Meeting.
A letter from the Society of Inquiry in Am herst College,
and answer to the same by Mr. Bingham.— Two letters
from the Rev. Mr. Mallock, Sec. of the A. T. Society, and
an answer to the same by M r. B ingham .-—Two from the
Rev. M r. Brigham, Sec. of the A. B. Society.— A letter
from the Rev. Mr. Ellis, Foreign Sec ofthe L. M. Society.
— One from the Rev. M r. Brown, Sec. o fth e A. S. F . So
ciety, and one from the Society of Inquiry in the Theol.
Sem. Princeton, N. J.
The following persons were appointed to write public
setters.
Messrs. Richards, Bingham and W hitney to the L. M .
Society, and to the Missionaries at the G eorgian Islands.
Mr. Bingham to the A. B. Society.
Mr. Richards to the A. T. Society.
Mr. Andrews to the Society of Inquiry, Theol. Sem.
Princeton, N. J.
Messrs. Andrews, Clark, Thurston and G reen were ap
pointed to write severally different parts of a general letter
to the Board, to be put together and forwarded by M r.
Andrews.
�1833.)
M I S CE LL A N EO U S
B USI NE SS.
Mr. Dibble was appointed to write to the Board respect
ing our claims for additional laborers.
A letter to the L. M. Society was prepared and presented
to the meeting according to the above appointment. Also
a general letter to the Board, and a letter respecting our
claims for additional laborers were presented and accepted.
On the subject of correspondence the following resolu
tion was adopted. In view of our own liability to err and
the injudiciousness of friends in printing communications
not designed to be made public, therefore,
Resolved, that this mission consider it proper and desi
rable that all letters written by appointment be submitted
to two, or, at least, to one of our number for approbation.
Rev. M r. Diell.
The following resolution was adopted in reference to
the Rev. Mr. Deill.
Considering the spiritual condition of American seamen
and other visitors and resident foreigners at these islands,
and their moral influence on the native population;
Resolved, that, with grateful hearts to the Giver of all
good, we welcome the Rev. Mr. D iell as chaplain to
seamen and other foreigners at the port of Honolulu, and
tender him our prayers and hearty cooperation in the dif
ficult, but important work to which he has devoted himself
H igh School.
i*'.'
On motion, voted, that the infant school apparatus be
committed for the present to Mr. Andrews, for the use of
the H igh School.
On motion voted, that we consider the H igh School as
having claims on specimens of all native curiosities superior
to the claims of private and other friends and Societies in
America, and therefore, that every individual of our num
ber be requested to furnish the High School with all such
specimens as far as it may be in his power.
On motion,- voted, that a committee be appointed to
collect curiosities and minerals, and transmit them to America at their discretion, and with the advice of the Prin3
�26
MI S CE LL A N EO U S B U S I N E S S .
(1833
cipal of the High School, for the purpose o f obtaining
curiosities and minerals in return.
Made choice of Dr. Chapin and Mr. Spaulding.
Survey of the Islands.
On motion, voted, that the brethren at Honolulu be em
powered to employ at their discretion Mr. Denison to take
a survey of these islands with a view of making a correct
map of them.
Recording Secretary.
Resolved, that we appoint a Recording Secretary of the
mission, whose duty it shall be to record in a book for the
purpose the minuets of the General M eeting, to take charge
of all public letters and documents belonging to the mission,
and to circulate among the members of the mission public
letters and other information of a general interest.
Made choice of Mr. Chamberlain.
Printing department.
, Made choice of Messrs. Bingham, Clark, Chamberlain
and Judd as printing committee for the ensuing year.
On motion, voted, that Mr. Rogers be requested to su
perintend the bindery as well as the printing office for the
ensuing year.
?
Change in locations.
Resolved, that a standing committee o f two be appointed
to consult with the different members of the mission on the
expediency o f a change in location, or a division of stations,
and to report on the subject at the next General M eeting.
Made choice of Messrs. Bingham and Chamberlain.
Errors corrected.
The following resolution was adopted.
Resolved, that it be the sense o f this Meeting that the
sentence in the report of the Board for 1829 respecting the
�27
ST A N D IN G C OM M ITT EES .
island o f Kauai in the following words, “ This island has
not yet been brought so thoroughly under the influence of
the school system as some others,” is obviously incorrect:
— Also the following sentence in the Report of 1830;— “ The
people are not so far advanced in a knowledge of Christiani
ty, as the inhabitants o f some islands of the group.”
Minutes.
On motion, voted, that the minutes of the Meeting be
printed at the discretion of the printing committee, accord
ing to the practice adopted heretofore.
JYext annual meeting, 1st week in June 1834.
Voted that the next General Meeting be at Kailua.
Messrs. Thurston and Bishop were appointed a commit
tee to confer with Mr. Chamberlain on the practicability
and expediency of having the next General Meeting at
Kailua.
STANDING COMMITTEES FOR
1833.
• 1. Mr. Bingham to write to the A. B. Society.
2. Mr. Richards to write to the A. T. Society.
3. Mr. Andrews to write to the Society of Inquiry, Theo.
Sem. Princeton, N . J.
4. Messrs. Chapin and Spaulding to collect minerals, &c.
5. T h e members o f the station of Honolulu, to employ
Mr. Denison to survey the Islands.
6. Messrs. Thurston and Bishop, on the subject o f the
next General Meeting.
7. Messrs. Bingham and Chamberlain, on the subject
o f a change in location.
8. Messrs. Bingham, Chamberlain, Clark and Judd, to
superintend the printing department.
9. Messrs. Richards, Bingham, Thurston, Whitney and
Andrews, Directors of the High School.
10. Messrs. Richards, Andrews and Bishop, on the sub
ject of a Vocabulary.
�CONTENTS.
M em bers present,
.
.
.
.
P ag e 3
O rganization of the M eeting,
.
.
.
.
3
Reception of the Reinforcem ent,
.
.
.
- 4
Resolutions respecting M r. F u ller,
.
.
4
List o f O vertures,
.
.
.
.
.
4
O verture 1.— Mission to the M arquesas,
.
.
5— 9
u
2.— Reports of Stations,
.
.
9
“
3.— R eports of Standing Committees,
.
10
R eport ofthe D irectors of the H igh School, 10— 17
do.
P rinting Com m ittee,
.
.
17
u
4.— Location of M issionaries,
.
.
19
u
5 .— Principles to be observed in respect to foreigners em igrating to these Islands,
.
19
“
6.— Oahu Charity School,
.
. .
20
“
7 —Reading Room s at L ahaina,
.
.2 1
u
8.— T ranslations, &c.
.
.
.
.2 2
u
9.— N ative Schools,
.
.
.
.
23
MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS.
.
.
.
.
.
.
C orrespondence,
Resolution respecting Rev. M r. D iell,
.
.
H ig h School,
.
do.
do.
Survey of the Islands,
.
do.
do.
Recording Secretary
.
.
do.
do.
Printing departm ent,
.
do.
do.
C hange in location,
.
do.
do.
Schools on K auai, &c.
.
do.
do.
M inutes of the general meeting,
do.
do.
N ext G eneral M eeting,
do.
do.
L ist of Standing Committees,
.
.
.
.
24
25
25
26
26
26
26
26
27
27
27
�
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes - 1833
Date
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1833
-
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Text
EXTRACTS
FR OM
THE
ff llW lI T E S
OF T H E
O B ST E R A L i
M B B T IB f©
OF THE
S A N D W IC H
IS L A N D S
M fTSSV O N ,
5IELD A T H ONOLULU ,
•MTNR
AND JULY
3834.
OAHU:
MISSION
PRESS.
1834
�!
�M IN U T E S .
A g e n e r a l meeting o f the Sandwich Islands Mission
was convened in the Meeting-house at Honolulu at half'
past 9, A. M., June 2, and continued by adjournment*
until July 16.
Members present.
R ev.
“
“
“
Mr.
“
“
“
S a m uel W h it n e y ,
P e t e r J. G u l i c k ,
Kauai.
H ir a m B in g h a m ,
E p h ra im W . C la r k ,
G. P. J u d d , M. D.,
L e v i C h a m b erla in ,
A ndr e w J ohnstone,
S tephen S h epard ,
E d m und H . R ogers,
Honolulu.
R ev. H ervey
“
L owell
“
“
Rev.
R . H itch co ck ,
S m ith ,
L o rrin A n d r e w s ,
E p h ra im S p a u ld in g ,
A l o n z o C h a p i n , M.
R euben
Lahaina.
D.,
I"
W ailuku.
T in k e r ,
“
“
A sa T h u r s t o n ,
A r te m a s B ish o p ,
“
C ochran F o rbes,
Kaawaloa.
“
“
D w ig h t B a l d w in ,
L orenzo L yons,
Waimea.
“
“
“
J o seph G o o d r ic h ,
S heldon D ibble,
D a v i d B. L y m a n ,
Hilo.
“
“
W il l ia m P . A l e x a n d e r ,
R ic ha rd A r m st r o n g ,
u
B e n ja m in W . P a r k e r ,
\ Kailua.
I
Washington
Islands’
Mission.
�■V
LIST OF O V E R T U R E S .
( 1834.
Organization of the Meeting.
Rev. /Vh t e m a s B i s h o p was chosen Moderator.
Mr. L e v i C h a m b e r l a i n , Scribe.
R e v . R e u b e n T i n k e r , Assistant Scribe.
List of Overtures.
1. Report of the brethren from
2. the W ashington Islands*
Reports of Stations.
3. Reports of Standing Committees.
4. Answers to questions of the Circular from the Board.
5. Location of Missionaries.
W hat immediate measures ought the Mission to
adopt in respect to Schools?
7. Suggestions of the Board respecting a Newspaper.
8. Expenses of the children of the Mission.
9. The Public Library, application for books, peri
odicals, etc.
10.
The manner of accounting to the American Bible
S o c i e t y for books printed at their expense.
11. The inquiry of the Board respecting a ship to be
employed for missionary purposes in the Pacific.
12. Correspondence with various societies and indi
vidual^.
13. Assignment of translations, etc. for the ensuing
vear.
14. Present exigencies of the Depository.
1.
Washington Islands9 Mission.
Having heard from the brethren of the Mission to the
Washington Islands a full statement of their labors and
trials during their residence at Nukuhiva, together with
their reasons for leaving the field, therefore,
1.
Resolved, That we sympathize with them in their
trials and our mutual disappointment, and that we cordially
receive them again to our number and bid them welcome
to the wide field of usefulness presented to them on these
islands.
'I. Resolved, That in our opinion these brethren have
acted according to their own best convictions of duty;
and we would recommend them to the unabated confi
dence and affection of the Board and the Christian public ,
�1 8 3 4 .)
R E PO R T S
2.
OF ST AT IO NS .
Repoi'ts of Stations.
W ritten reports from all the stations were read, furnish
ing matter for the general letter to the Board; and frora
which is also derived the followingo
3.
13 i
29
7
69
106
2 2
7)
1 0
3505
Admitted to
'lie church.
Candidates. |
1^
Kauai,
W aialua,
Honolulu,
Molokai,
Lahaina,
W ailuku,
Kailua,
Kaawaloa,
W aimea,
Hilo,
Learners,
Stations.
cc
Of)
•eC
-a
! fc
Readers.
j
Statistical table o f Marriages, Schools, and Churches, for
the year ending June, 1834.
^ '‘8
14
64
*
*
*
#
211
20
229
5
5
1791
225
18
288 I
2
11
928" 619 20 13 117
1500 *
85
2
j 21
TeT
I25~ *
22
1 37
1 125 1 >608, 6 ,9 1 124jl3| 7i*4
Reports of Si am1in g C >mmitlees.
.Most of the reports were presented verbally, and were
approved.
The following is the Report of the Printing Committee,
There were on hand at the commencement of the year,
1,275 reams of paper. Received since by three different
shipments, 1,180 reams. This added to the amount on
hand, makes 2,455 reams. Of this 367 reams have been
used during the year, and ten reams have been rendered
unfit for printing, by being wet on board ship; leaving
on hand at the present time 2,078 reams.
* No returns.
5 from the church at Honolulu.
1*
�6
( 1834.
PRINTING.
The following works have been printed during the year.
Marquesan Spelling Book,
Two sheets of Scrip. Hist, (rep.)
Deuteronomy, (reprint,)
Skeleton Maps,
Handbill Tracts,
First Lessons in Geometry,
(Holbrooks9,)
New Testament from I Cor.
to Rev. inclusive, (rep.)
Daily Food, (extracts from
Acts and Romans,
Cuts,
Music Book, (first part,)
Laws for the king,
Minutes of Gen. Meet. (Eng.)
Abstract of Nautical Alma
nac, (English,)
Circular from, the Board, (Eng.)
Blanks, handbills, etc. for for
eign residents, (English,)
pp.
mo. P- copies.
8 3,0001 24,000
8
18 72 10,000 720,000
18 144 2,500 360,000
19,500
13 1,500
14,400
7
16
64
3,000
192,000
12 180 10,000 1,800,000
18
38 10,000
380,000
12
16
8
12
3,400
54 10,000
16 1,000
50
28
40,800
540,000
16,000
1,400
3,000
4
24
125
12
8
50
18
400
1,200
656 54,625 4,112,700
The expenses of the above works have been as follows.
For paper, 367 reams at 3 1 2 , ..........................$1,146 87
“ Com position,.......................................
120 19
“ Presswork, ....................................................... 300 00
361 14
F old in g gathering, binding and stitching,
25 00
Ink, 50 lbs. at 50 cts.
Sheep skins, 150, at 21 cts
31 50
8 25
Goat skins, 50, at 16 cts. .
15 00
Pasteboard, 150 lbs...........
7 00
Thread, 7 lbs. . . . . . . . . .
$2,014 95
900 Old Testament Tracts, 500 New Testaments, 1.000
of the Scripture History, 300 Geographies, and a number
of English volumes have been bound.
Twelve native workmen have been employed most of
the time in the printing office and bindery. A foreign
workman has also been employed four or five weeks in the
�1834.)
HIG H SCHOOL.
7
bindery. The superintendence of both departments has
devolved upon Mr. Rogers. Mr. Shepard has, however,
afforded all the assistance his strength would admit.
The first and second Samuel, and a part of Judges are
the only works now in the hands of the Committee ready
for the press.
A new iron printing press, two standing presses, and
many other materials and implements for the oflice and
bindery have been received during the year. Stones have
also been procured for building a new printing office, the
old building to be appropriated to the bindery.
Third Jhmual Report of the Directors of the High School.
The Directors of the High School of the Mission, with
increasing confidence in the utility of the plan undertaken
with small means, under numerous embarrassments, which
those who are called to watch over infant institutions
where books abound, and apparatus can be procured with
money on short notice, can never fully understand, would
again commend the institution to the fostering care of the
Mission, and the patronage of the Board, as a specially
promising branch of their operations in these islands,
while with thankful hearts, they present to the General
Meeting of the Mission their third Annual Report, recog
nizing the principles and measures recommended in former
reports on the school, and approved by the Mission, as
affording still a general outline of rules which need not
here be repeated,
1. The History of the School for the year ending June
1, 1834.
The amount of term time during the year in which the
scholars attended regularly to instruction, was a httle
more than seven months. Besides the regular vacation
months of June and December, there was an additional
period of six weeks, from the fourteenth of October to the
last of November, and on account of the indisposition of
the Principal, occasioned probably through over exertion
and the want of suitable accommodations, there was no
regular instruction during the month of May.
The number regularly attending, has been about eighty.
Fourteen new scholars have been admitted in the course
�8
HIGH
SCHOOL.
( 1834.
of the year, and as great a number have left the school or
been absent.
The studies mentioned in the last report, have been
pursued to the full extent of the means provided. Hol
brook’s Elements of Geometry has been translated and
printed for the school, and has been thoroughly studied by
two classes, and commenced by others. Two classes
have gone through with a small Scripture Geography
of 99 pages, lGrno.—Comstock’s N atural History, and
W orcester’s Civil, have been commenced, though but a
few articles have yet been translated for the school. C ol
burn’s Arithmetic, and a Hawaiian Grammar have been at
tended to a part of the time, and some other studies particularly that of the scriptures.
The experiment of a class in Greek, with almost no
suitable facilities, appears to justify its continuance, as
they readily learned to distinguish the declensions, and to
pronounce Greek so distinctly by a little showing how to
place and use the organs, that the Principal could under
stand them in reading a passage from the New Testament ,
and he supposes they could learn Greek or Hebrew as
easily as they could English or any other living language.
They have learned readily and with apparent pleasure
whatever has been placed within their reach, and obviously
with increasing attachment to the school and its objects.
Before the close of the last session, and during the illness
of the Principal, the students held a meeting among them
selves, and agreed to apply to the missionaries generally
for an additional tcacher for the school, though it was
made a serious question whether they ought not to support
a second teacher should they obtain one on their own
application.
Their petition, drawn up by one of the pupils from H o
nolulu, expressing the voice of the school, has been by the
Principal put into the hands of the Directors, for the Mis
sion, and translated, is as follows.
M aui, Upper Lahaina, M ay 28, 1834.
Affection for you, ye missionaries, in all the Hawaiian
Islands. This is our proposition to you all; we beg of
you an additional teacher, a second for Andrews. This is
the reason why we ask of you a new instructor, we have
perceived the disadvantage of one alone, in times of his
�1834.)
H I G H SCHOOL.
debility we can do nothing on account of his distress,
therefore, we beg of you a yoke-fellow for him, that they
two may seek together, because while one alone was
seeking by day and by night, time after time, then distress
came upon him, and we sat still three-fourths of May.
That is the amount of our petition.
This is moreover our earnest desire. W hen you are
all assembled together, then grant it at once, and by no
means postpone, for we are now studying in declining
years, and in the middle [age] of man, and not in the time
of childhood, when it might be more proper to postpone.
But the propriety of this address is not obvious. W ith
the Lord alone is the means by which to succeed.
Peace be with you all.
By us, the students of the High School, at
Upper Lahaina, Maui.
The Printing Press granted by the Mission last year, to
facilitate the preparation of books and studies for the
school, was put in operation in January.
For three
months one page of a quarto weekly paper, printed by
them and for their use, and edited by the Principal, was
wholly occupied with original articles prepared by them
for the purpose, and inserted in their own style, orthogra
phy and punctuation, and is deemed respectable newspaper
matter. Some on receiving their half sheet quarto from
the press, would sit down upon a stone on their way to
their houses and read it through.
One of the best compositors in the office at Oahu, was
sent to assist in setting type, who soon after joined the
school, and continued his work, so that the press for the
school may be said to have been worked by the students.
It has printed the following works in five months.
mo. cop.
Scripture Geography, (W orcester’s,) 99 16
Bible Class Book, (Abbot and Fisk,) 66 16
The Lama Hawaii, (14 numbers,)
56 4to.
Constitution of Marine Temperance )
4
Society, and other handbills,
)
First form of Geometry,
8
228
p. p.
200 19,800
200 12,200
800
200
200
200
200
16,00
1000 34,600
�10
HIG H SCHOOL.
( 1834.
The cuts for the natural history in the Lama Hawaii,
representing the relative proportion as well as form of the
animals in imitation of Comstock’s, were prepared by
Dr. Chapin, who has rendered other important aid to the
school. The neat diagrams in Holbrook’s Geometry were
prepared by Dr. Judd. Mr. Richards translated the arti
cles on natural history, and rendered other valuable assist
ance. Mr. Thurston translated the Scripture Geography
at the request of the Principal.
It may be added here, that the foundation of a new
school room has been laid, and the artisan in prospect last
year, is now expected to enter on a years work soon, upon
the buildings on the premises. Specimen coins to the
amount of about forty dollars, and a set of Averdupois
weights have been purchased for the school.
2. Recommendations.
The Directors would now offer respectfully a few re
commendations, which, if approved by the meeting, will
be regarded as expressing the voice of the Mission in
reference to the High School.
1. That the printing of the Geometry be continued, and
the needful Logarithmical tables, etc., be immediately
undertaken, to enable the school to pursue the study of
Geometry, Trigonometry, Surveying, Navigation, and As
tronomy.
2. The continuance, (at the discretion of the Principal,
either weekly or occasionally,) of the Lama Hawaii, par
ticularly as a class paper, for the instruction of the school,
and for the benefit of other individuals.
3. That a good second hand Ramage press, recently
purchased, be granted to the High School, with additional
type and apparatus, to aid in printing for the school, and
for station schools, when particular works to be printed
appear adapted to their wants.
4. That a screw for a standing press, and other means
for pressing and binding be granted, to meet the immedi
ate wants of the school.
5. That a Library, distinct from the general library of
the Mission, be established in and for the High School,
particularly for the use of its instructors, especially at first,
but eventually, in part, at least, for the pupils, to be under
the special care of a librarian appointed by the Mission,
�1834.)
H IG H SCHOOL*
11
and that the librarian or Principal, be requested to specify
from time to time to the Mission, or to the Prudential
Committee, such books as would be acceptable, and such
as are needed to promote the prosperity of the school.
6. That a house be erected on the premises, for a female
school for the wives of the students, and for a primary
school for their children and domestics, in which the fore
most students may sometimes engage in practical instruc
tion, as assistants, at least, to a teacher or superintendant,
and that the doors, windows, and roof be furnished by the
Mission, provided the natives interested, or to be benefited
will construct the body of the building of such dimensions
and durability, as in the judgment of the Principal and any
of the Directors, would make such an expenditure for this
object economical.
7. That the Board be requested to send out and sustain
a pious artisan, to take charge of the manual labor de
partment in the school, who should be competent to frame,
finish, and furnish, with ordinary wooden furniture, a good
house, and whose wife should be able to teach the domes
tic arts, and assist in a primary school, on the premises.
8. That a church be formed in the High School under
the pastoral charge of the Principal, and its discipline
maintained agreeably with the general principles adopted
by the Hawaiian Association, and that the Scriptural prin
ciples of church government and discipline, be carefully,
theoretically, and practically taught there, as well as
sound theology and the sciences.
9. That in compliance with the earnest wishes of the
Principal as well as of the pupils, and the desire of the
Board to make the school what it should be, the Mission ap
point for the High School an additional instructor from
among the present number of missionaries, with special
reference to preparing studies, and giving instruction in
mathematics and the natural sciences, the Principal being
expected to be more particularly devoted to the moral
sciences, languages, and theology.
10. That the teacher of mathematics and the natural
sciences be requested to act as treasurer and librarian for
the school, to take charge of donations and grants made
directly to the school for its general or permanent use, or
for the encouragement or support of indigent students,
who need stationery, clothes, etc., whether derived from
�12
HI G H SCHOOL.
( 1834.
the depository of the Mission, or the direct funds of the
Board, or any other source, and to make an annual state
ment to the Directors, of the receipts and expenditures, in
reference to the whole expenses of the department.
11. That the General Agent be requested to regard the
High School and its instructors as a distinct station, or de
partment, that the houses of the instructors, and their sup
port hereafter, while devoted to the school, and the ex
penses of the public buildings, library, apparatus, etc., of
the institution united, be a distinct article in the accounts
of the Mission, as the expenses of its High School. It
being understood, that if any work be done for the Mission
at the High School press or bindery, it shall be charged at
«ost to the Mission, and credited to the school from whose
treasury the workmen were paid.
12. That tuition be regarded, with the consent of the
present students, as nominally five dollars a term, [or one
dollar per month of term time,] from the commencement,
and that the aid hitherto afforded by the students, by la
boring with their own hands in the construction of the
public and permanent buildings for the school, above the
use, or room rent, enjoyed by them, be regarded as fully
cancelling this nominal claim for tuition; and' that the
same general rule be observed through the course, witli
all the students, who, in the judgment of the instructors,
shall contribute to the public buildings, above their use to
an amount similar to that contributed by the first class,
the buildings being equitably under the control of the Mis
sion for the object for which they wrere erected.
13. That all former appropriations unapplied, be still
available, and that the 1,000 dollars generously granted
by the Prudential Committee, to aid in training up teach
ers in the Sandwich Islands, be applied to the High School,
as the Principal and his associate, with the approbation of
the Directors, shall deem most expedient, and that the
further means needed for erecting, in an economical man
ner, aided by the students, a convenient chapel, lecture
room, and library, which, connected with the first school
house, will present a front of one hundred and fifty two
feet, and for completing comfortable accommodations also
for the instructors and their families, (with which the P rin
cipal has not yet been able, while devoted to the school,
to furnish himself,) be also granted for the current year
�1834.)
LOCATION.
4.
13
Questions of the Circular.
These were assigned to different individuals and com
mittees to draw up answers. The answers were read be
fore the meeting, discussed, amended, and approved, with
the exception of the forty seventh, which, not being com
pleted, was left with a committee of three, Messrs. Bing
ham, Richards and Tinker, to report next June.
Much of the time of the General Meeting was devoted
to the questions; and the approved answers put into the
hands of a committee of six, to be copied and forwarded to
the Board.
5. Location of Missionaries.
The committee to whom was referred the subject of lo
cation, beg leave to state that they have attended to their
duties, and are unanimous in recommending the following
arrangement, as well calculated, in their opinion, to pro
mote the Redeem er’s cause in these islands.
1. They recommend that Mr. Gulick be located at Ko~
loa, on Kauai.
2. That Mr. Alexander be located at one of the two
other unoccupied posts on that island, at Kapaa or Hanalei, as he and the missionaries of that island shall decide.
3. That Mr. Smith be located at Ewa, on the island of
Oahu.
4. That Mr. Armstrong be located at H ana, or some
other post on E ast Maui, as he and the brethren of that
island shall decide.
5. That Mr. Parker be at liberty to take his choice of
the following stations, with permission to survey the fields.
On the island of Hawaii, Kau, and W aim ea or some other
plf^co in the region, as he and the brethren shall decide,
or one of the two stations at Koolau, on the island of
Oahu: that, should Mr. Parker choose Kau, he have the
liberty of a temporary residence at Kaawaloa, or should
he choose Koolau, the same liberty be granted of a resi
dence at W aialua.
6. T hat Mr. Clark occupy a post at the High School,
and assist in maintaining preaching at an out station.
7. T hat Mr. Tinker remove to Honolulu to act as editor
of the proposed Hawaiian newspaper, and to aid in other
missionary labors.
2
�14
6.
REPOR T OiV SCHOOLS.
( 1834.
What immediate measures ought the Mission to take in
respect to Schools?
The Committee to whom was referred the question,
4LWhat immediate measures ought the mission to adopt in
respect to schools?” beg leave to submit the following
resolutions,
1. That the ignorance of this people is such that both
the permanency of religious institutions among them, and
the more immediate success of the gospel upon their
hearts are materially dependent on the progress of education;
it being evident from observation, that those who are most
enlightened are more likely than others to experience the
saving efficacy of divine truth; and it being equally clear
also from a just view of the case, that nothing but knowl
edge and a well disciplined mind can qualify the youth
now pious to become efficient helpers in the work of
evangelizing their countrymen.
2. That the present declining state of schools on these
.islands calls loudly upon us to make immediate and vigo
rous exertions in the cause of education, and, as scribes
well instructed, to bring forth out of our treasury things
new, and adapted to the exigencies of the time.
3. That having consulted the King of these islands and
such of the chiefs as could be conveniently assembled at
this plac^e, making known to them our plans in respect to
station schools, as expressed in the answer to the 24th
question of the Circular, and requesting them to aid in
the execution of those plans by granting building spots for
school houses, by assisting in the erection of them, and by
exempting the teachers of such schools from public labor
and taxation; and our application having been favorably
received, therefore resolved, that it be recommended as
a general thing to build, during the present year, at each
station one commodious school house at least, and to
furnish it with convenient seats and writing benches,
availing ourselves of all the assistance in erecting them
which can be obtained from chiefs and from the people,
and drawing when necessary wpon the depository to an
amount not exceeding one hundred dollars to each school
house.
4.
That it be left to the discretion of each station whether
£he house to be erected be constructed for the accommoda
�1834 .)
R EPO R T ON N E W S P A P E R .
15
tion of adults or of children; and whether the school be
taught by a member of the Mission or by a native teacher.
5. That the missionaries at each station have liberty to
employ statedly, not only a native teacher to instruct in
the school house to be erected, but also a few other such
teachers, as they shall deem worthy of the trust, to in
struct in the school houses already erected; and that
wherever a native teacher be employed, the missionaries
who shall employ him have permission to become respon
sible to him for a frugal support, and to remit it to him in
such a manner as they shall judge best, obtaining it, so
for as practicable and expedient, from local chiefs and
from the people, and where necessary drawing upon the
depository to an amount not exceeding ten dollars per
annum in cotton cloth at cost and charges.
6. In respect to the common native schools throughout
the islands, resolved, That their condition is so various in
different portions of the islands that no general rule can
be adopted in respect to them, and that therefore all mea
sures in relation to their schools be left discretionary
with the brethren at each station.
7. That our secular agent be instructed to make some
arrangement, if possible, to supply our schools with sta
tionery at a moderate price.
7.
Report on Newspaper.
1.
Resolved, That in the opinion of this meeting the
periodical press may be advantageously employed in the
Sandwich Islands to exhibit truth in an attractive form
before the eyes of several thousand readers; to open the
sources and supply the means of useful knowledge in the
arts and sciences, history, morals, and religion; to point
out existing evils, their character, seat, extent, and con
sequences, their causes and the remedy; to make a newly
and partially instructed people, acquainted with the re
sults of the experience and discoveries of past generations,
and with the success or defeat of the enterprises of the
passing age; to supply deficiences in the books printed,
and to elucidate by various methods of simple, and figura
tive language, diagrams, engravings &c. every subject
brought before the people from the simplest elements
of knowledge, to the highest points of instruction aimed
at by the Mission.
�16
C H I L D R E N OF TH E MI SSION.
( 1834.
2. That a paper is needed, adapted to the wants of the
pupils connected with the station schools now existing,
and those that are contemplated under the more immediate
instruction of the missionaries; to aid the teachers actually
engaged in the business of instruction; to prompt the
chiefs, headmen, and konohikis, and parents to the perform
ance of duty; to encourage, guide, enlighten, and train for
action the youth and children, both in school and out who
can read or can be thus induced to read, and, therefore,
such a paper ought to be undertaken soon.
3. That a religious newspaper in the Hawaiian lan
guage be established at Honolulu, and entrusted to an
editor appointed by the Mission.
4. That the paper be called “ K e K u m u H a w a i i . ”
5. That for the first year it be issued semi-monthly on a
neat quarto sheet of eight pages.
6. That each of the missionaries, who has been in the
field three years, be considered as pledged to contribute
for the paper in the form of intelligence, essay, translation,
exegesis, monthly concert address, etc., to the amount of
one column a week, or four columns each month, and that
the younger brethren contribute selections or compositions
of their own two columns a month, and that the brethren
from the W ashington Islands be allowed to furnish their
essays in English for six months, and that Mr. Johnstone
be allowed to furnish his contributions in English.
8. Expenses of the Children of ihe Mission.
The Committee to whom was referred the question
of the Board in respect to the expenses of the children
of the mission, beg leave to state that they have carefully
attended to the subject, and would present the following
as the result of their investigation.
Estimated expense of supporting a child of a missionary
under 12 years of age at the Sandwich Islands,
Food.
1 pint of milk per day, at 3 cents,
$10 95
Rice, and pia, 25 lb. pr. year, at 6 cents,
1 50
Animal food, 1 cent per day,
3 65
Vegetable food of all kinds, 4 cents per day, 14 60—30 70
Fuel for cooking and ironing,
5 00
Clothing.
3 common and 1 better suits,
6 50
Shirts, 50 cents; shoes and hats, $3
3 50— 10 no
�1834.)
17
C H I L D R E N OF TH E MI S SI ON .
1
1
w
Bedding.
Bed steads and cradle,
25
50
Bed clothes, $2 25; night clothes, $1 00, :
1 50
School books,
Furniture.
For personal use,
1 00>
Additional for kitchen,
1 00-I---- 2 00
W ear of household furniture,
2 00
Additional accommodations, $500, averaged
on 5 children for 12 years,
33
Domestic help, for a native and his wife,
10 00
averaged on 4 children,
CO
$73 03
Tuition, for time devoted by the parents ex
clusively to teaching,
25 00
Estimate for a youth over 12 years of age, and under 18.
Food.
Animal food, 3 cents per day,
$10 95
Milk,
5 47
Vegetable food of all kinds, 6 cts. pr. day, 21 90—38 32
Fuel,
6 25
Clothing.
2 common and 1 better suits,
12 00
Shirts, $3; shoes, $4 50; hats, $2 50,
10 00—22 00
Bedding,
3 50
Classical and other books,
2 00
Furniture,
2 00
Domestic help,
10 00
$84 07
Tuition, for time devoted by the parents ex
clusively to teaching,
25 00
Y our committee in presenting this report would remark,
that the circumstances of the families are so various that
no single estimate will give a full view of the whole sub
ject of expense for the support of children at the Sandwich
Islands.
They cannot vouch for the entire correctness of the
estimates herewith; because no family has kept an ac2*
�18
C HI L D R E N OF T tt E
MI SSI ON ,
( 1834,
count, from which data could be derived for an exact
estimate. The cost of provisions is not the same at every
station, and the mode of living is not the same in every
family; the manner in which the families are supplied with
food for the table is not the same; accommodations are
different; the support of domestic helpers is not equally
expensive at all the stations. These differences, and the
fact that much of our support is derived from sources not
direct from the funds of the Board and which probably has
not in all cases been reckoned at its full value, have ren
dered it difficult for your committee to fix upon an estimate
not liable to exceptions. This which they have adopted,
they think, comes within the bounds of truth. It is not
alledged that in time past the full amount herein specified
has been drawn directly from the funds of the Board, nor
that in time to come it will be necessary to draw upon the
treasury in Boston for so much; though it may become
necessary, by the failure of resources at the islands.
Should the sources of support derived from books or land
or favor of the people fail, the specified sum may be too
small.
In the estimate for Children of 12 years and under,
an item has been included for additional accommodations,
and omitted in the one for youth between \°l and 18, as it
was supposed, that accommodations once furnished would
be permanent.
It was a subject of some doubt whether an item for
tuition should be included, though, to be minds of your
committee, it seemed proper that some notice should be
taken of it; and $25 annually was deemed little enough.
It will be perceived that the estimate is made out for a
male. It is supposed that the difference will be but trif
ling for a female, though it may be a little less than for a
male.
In view of the foregoing estimates and statements,
Resolved, That the Prudential Committee be apprised or
our sentiments, and that it be referred to them with these
estimates before them, to fix upon the amount proper to be
appropriated for the support of the children of the mission
aries at the Sandwich Islands.
�1834.)
PU BLI C
9.
L I B RA R Y.
19
Public Library, Periodicals, fyc.
1. That of all books so valuable that the members of
the mission generally would wish to read or consult them,
we recommend, that several copies, at least, of each be
sent, inasmuch as every year’s experience teaches that
the difficulties of circulating books from island to island,
and from station to station, are far greater and must oc
cupy more time than has been heretofore supposed.
2. That a librarian be appointed to take charge of all
the undistributed books, make out and print a full cata
logue of all that belong to the library which shall be thought
of value to the mission, and furnish a catalogue for each
member, and perform such other duties as may be assigned
him.
3. That each member of the mission be required to re
turn to the librarian such books as he may not wish to
retain, to label such as he retains which are unlabelled,
and send a complete list of them to the librarian.
4. That it be the duty ol the librarian to charge to each
individual such books as he retains in his possession.
5. That in case any book be desired, which is in the
hands of another, the request be made through the libra
rian, or if otherwise, that the librarian be informed of the
transfer, in case it be made.
6. That the librarian and two others be a committee to
distribute such undistributed books as may be desired
by the several members of the mission, to recommend
to the mission such other books as should be requested
from the Board, and to forward the request, when sanction
ed by the mission or a committee of the mission regularly
authorised for the purpose.
7. That the instructors of the High School together
with such of the Trustees as can be conveniently consulted,
be authorised to apply to the Board for such books as they
may need for a library at the School.
8. That the individuals appointed to write to the Semin
aries at Andover and Princeton, suggest to them the pro
priety of sending the Newspapers of their Reading Rooms,
quarterly, to this and other missions of the American
Board.
9. That the committee on the distribution of books be
requested to devise some plan for increasing the usefulness
�20
PE R I O D IC A L S,
ETC .
( 1834.
of our library, also regulations for its management, &c.,
and report to this mission at its next annual meeting.
10.
That the members of the mission prepare a list of
the books which they wish to obtain from the Board and
send it by the first of November next to the Committee,
who are authorised to write for such and so many of them
as in their opinion shall be advisable.
(The committee mentioned above are Messrs. L. Cham
berlain, G. P. Judd and R. Tinker, Librarian.)
Periodicals.
1. Annals of Education, 7 copies, to be distributed as
follows, 1 for Kauai, 2 for Oahu, 2 for Maui and Molokai,
1 for Kona and Kau, 1 for Hilo and W aimea.
2. American Quarterly Observer, seven copies, to be
distributed as above.
3. Abbot’s Religious Magazine, 7 copies.
4. Biblical Repository,
7 copies.
5. North American Review,
3 copies.
for Kauai and Oahu 1, Maui and Molokai 1, Hawaii 1.
6. Quarterly Register and Journal of the A. E . S. one
copy for each station.
7. Spirit of the Pilgrims,
3 copies.
8. Silliman’s Journal,
1 copy.
9. Family Lyceum, one for each station with the back
numbers bound.
10. New York State Temp. Recorder, 30 copies.
11. Spirit of the Age, 1 copy for each station.
12. Me. DowalPs Journal, 1 copy for each station,
13. United States Gazette, 7 copies.
W ithout further specification, it is recommended, that
the Board be requested to furnish as good a supply as they
can with little or no expense of such newspapers as the
following:—New York Observer, Presbyterian, Connecti
cut Observer, Boston Recorder, Vermont Chronicle, New*
Hampshire Gazette, Charleston Observer, Episcopal R e
corder, Cincinnati Journal, Christian Advocate and Journal,
W estern Luminary, and any other papers which they think
calculated to increase our fitness for our work and to
stimulate us in it.
�1834.)
10.
A M ER IC A N B I B L E
SOCIETY.
21
The Manner of Accounting to the Am. Bible Soc.
In accounting to the American Bible Society for the books
printed at their expense, the Printing Committee to whom
the subject has been referred, beg leave to suggest that the
following general principle should be adopted.
That the Bible Society should be credited for the pecunia
ry, advantage resulting to the Board in the way of support
to this mission, by the employment of books printed on
their appropriations.
F or example, if it would cost the American Board $16,000
to support this mission independent of aid from the Bible
Society, and only $14,000 availing themselves of this
aid; then $2,000 is the'sum , for which the Board should
account to that Society. W e recommend that the nominal
price of the New Testament be fixed at 75cts a copy.
This, although something more than the first cost of the
book reckoning nothing for the preparation of matter,
agencies, &c. is probably less than the cost, if these should
be included. And considering that many of our books
must be given away, and others sold for articles of little or
no value to the mission, we think it inexpedient to fix the
nominal price lower than that abovementioned. W hen,
therefore, a New Testament shall be sold for cash, 75 cts.
is its real value to the mission, and should be accounted for
accordingly to the Bible Society.
But as most of^our books will be sold for the various
productions of the islands, for labor &c. a different stand
ard of reckoning must be applied, when accounting for
books thus disposed of. The price of common factory
cotton cloth seems at present the most suitable standard
by which to estimate their value to the Mission ;:—that being
an important articLe of trade, and the value mor'e generally
known by the natives than that of most other commodities.
The Board could furnish us a full supply of this article at 15
cents per yard, as an average price, including all charges.
As a general thing the natives would value three yards of
cloth at 75 cents. In accounting for a New Testament
sold for labor or the productions of the islands at the rate
of common cotton cloth, we think that 45 cents a copy
should be its estimated value to the Mission; because
three yards of cloth will cost the Board no more than 45
cents. As we shall make it an object of importance to put
�MISSIONA RY SHI P.
(1834.
the means of instruction into hands of the people as fast
as possible, it witl often happen that books will be sold for
articles of less real value to us than to the natives, or than
even their nominal.value; such books should be accounted
for according to their true value to the mission.
W hen any other books shall be printed on the Bible
Society’s appropriations, we recommend that it be the
duty of the secular agent to inform the stations of the
same, and also of the nominal price at which the books
should be sold, taking the price of the New Testament as
the standard.
The Committee would remark further, that in order to
account with the American T ract Society, they recommend,
that as successive works printed at their expense are issued
from the office, the stations be distinctly informed of the
same, and that such an account be kept by each family, of
the disposal of books thus printed, and of their value to the
mission, as shall enable the different stations to make out a
fair report: and that this report be forwarded to the gene
ral agent as a part of the report on the general subject of
avails of books, and be by him communicated to the trea
surer of the Board with any explanations that may be
deemed necessary to set the subject in a proper light.
They would recommend also that much care be observ
ed by the different families in keeping an account of the
disposal of books belonging to the Bible Society; and that
a statement as accurate, as possible, of avails from that
source be rendered annually to the secular agent, in order
that he may apprise the Treasurer of the Board of the
advantage which the mission has derived from books printed
at the expense of that Society.
11.
Ship fo r Missionary Purposes.
Resolved, That the cost of a large vessel and the expense
of manning it, and keeping it in repair would be so great,
that we do not feel justified in requesting the Board to
furnish it, since we believe the wants of this mission can
be more economically supplied on the present plan, or
through the agency of a mercantile house in Honolulu.
And such we believe,would still be the case even though
the Board should enlarge the mission to the extent advised
by this meeting. But should the Board extend their mis
�1834.)
C O R RES PO NDE NCE .
23
sionary operations to Japan, to the Phillipine, Caroline,
and other islands in the neighborhood of the China Sea,
and to the western coast of North and South America, it
might then be advisable for them to own a large vessel in
the Pacific.
12.
Correspondence.
1. Resolved, That our correspondence with our friends
and the world, might with our increasing numbers, be con
siderably improved and advantageously enlarged, by more
attention to system, without increasing the labor or amount
of time now devoted to letter writing; and more good
might thus be anticipated to be returned into our own
bosoms.
2. That much good might reasonably be expected to
result from a few friendly, pious, heart-stirring letters,
written with care and prudence from year to year, by mis*
sionaries in their field of labor, designed to communicate
and elicit information on missionary subjects, to cherish a
holy and elevated fellowship with the philanthropists of the
age, to stimulate and guide the younger brethren, who are
now choosing their course of life, and to invite and urge
the full co-operation of others, who hesitate to enter with
all their heart and soul upon the self-sacrificing work of the
world’s Redeemer, and to uphold the hands of t^ose who
are simultaneously putting forth their best efforts to bring a
revolted world back to its allegiance to Christ.
3. That while the claims of the Missionary Rooms
should be recognised sis paramount, it is understood that
we are expected by the Board to extend our correspond
ence further, when there is a fair prospect of doing good to
our cause; and while our pens are guided by Christian
prudence, and humble missionary zeal, we need not fear
being charged with the omission of duty, should we oc
casionally devote a good hour to other correspondents in
different parts of the world, where prayers are offered for
us, which we and our patrons wish to be continued.
4. That the following be the plan for the joint corres
pondence of the Mission for the current year, and that the
designated members be authorised and requested to tender
the salutations of the Mission to its correspondents as
herein recommended, including the arrangements already
�24
COR RE SP O ND EN CE .
( 1834.
made by the meeting, and to address them on subjects im
mediately connected with the conversion of the world.
I. Societies in Colleges and Theological Seminaries.
I. Mr. Clark, to the students of Bangor Theo. Sem.,
Bangor, Maine. 2. To the students of Lane Seminary,
Cincinnati, Ohio.
3.
Mr. Emerson, Soc. of Ioq. Dartmouth Coll., H ano
ver, N. H . 4. Students of the Baptist Theo. Seminary,
Newton, Mass.
o.
Mr. Smith, Soc. of Inq. in Bowdoin Coll., Bruns
wick, Maine.
6. Mr. Spaulding, students ofM iddlebury Coll., Vt.
7. Mr. Bingham, Soc. of Inq. Theo. Sem. Andover, Ms.
8. Dr. Chapin, Soc. of Inq. Amherst Coll. Mass.
9. Mr. Richards, Soc. of Inq. Williams’ Coll. Mass.
10. Mr. Whitney, Soc. of Inq. Yale Coll Conn.
II. Mr. Green, Students at Brown Univ. Prow R. I.
12. Mr. Bishop, students at Union Coll. Schenectady,
New York. 13. To students of Illinois Coll. Jackson
ville, 111.
14. Mr. Dibble, Soc. of Inq. Auburn Teo. Sem. N. Y.
15. To Students of Hamilton Coll. N. Y.
16. Mr. Gulick, Soc. of Inq. Princeton Theo. Sem.
N . Je r oy. 17. Theo. Sem. of the Pres. Church, Alleghanytown, Penn.
18. Mr. Armstrong, Soc. of Inq. Union Theo; Sem.
Prince Edward, Va. 19. To students of the Epis. Theo.
Sem. Alexandria, D. C. 20. To students of Lafayette
Coll. Easton, Penn.
21. Mr. Andrews, Soc., of Inq. W estern Reserve Coll.
Ohio. 22. Soc. of Inq. Jefferson Coll. Cannonsburg, Pa.
23. Missionary Sem. Basle, Switzerland.
24. Mr. Baldwin, students of Miami Univ. Oxford, Ohio.
25. Mr. Alexander, Soc. of Inq. Center Coll. D an
ville, Ken.
26. Mr. Hitchcock, students of the Southern and W est
ern Theo. Sem Maryville, Tenn.
27. Mr. Goodrich, students of Nashville Coll. Tenn.
28. Mr. Lyman, students of Hanover Theo. Sem. Ind.
29. Mr. Forbes, students of Southern Theo. Sem. Co-
�1334.)
C OR RE S PO ND EN CE .
25
lumbia, S. C. 30. To students of the Lutheran Theo.
Sem. Gettysburg, Penn.
31. Dr. Judd, students in the Oneida Institute, Whitesborough, N. Y.
32. Mr. Lyons, students of Hamilton Theo. Sem. N. Y.
33 Mr. Parker, students of the Methodist Theo. Sem.
Middletown, Conn.
II. Public Societies.
Messrs. Thurston, Baldwin, and Tinker, A. B. C. F. M.
Mr. Bingham, Am. Bible Soc. New York City. Phila
delphia Bible Soc. Am Temperance Society. Scottish
Missionary Soc. Scotland.
Mr. Richards, Am. Tract Soc. N. Y. City. Am. T ract
Soc. Boston.
M r. Tinker, American S. S. Union.
Mr. Green, Aigic Society, Detroit.
Mr. Spaulding, Am. Seamen’s Friend Soc. N. Y. City.
Mr. Alexander, London Miss. Society, London.
III. Missionaries and Public Men.
Mr. Baldwin, Rev. FI. Bardwell, Agent of A. B. C. F.
M. Andover, Mass.
Mr. Lyons, Rev. Chauncy Eddy, Agent of A. B. C. F.
M. Utica.
Mr. Chamberlain, Rev. Artemas Bullard, Agent of A.
B. C. F . M. Cincinnati, Ohio.
Mr. Armstrong; Rev. J . R. McDowall, N. Y. City.
Mr. Richards, Rev. Dr. Philip, South Africa.
Mr. Bingham, Rev. Mr. Ellis, for the Miss. Annual.
Mr. Tinker, Conductors of the Chinese Repository,
Canton. Mr. B. B Edwards, Editor of the American
Quarterly Observer, Boston, Mass.
Mr. Alexander, Missionaries at the Soc. and Geo. Isis.
Mr. Parker, Rev. Daniel Temple, for the Missionaries
in the M editerranean and Syria.
Mr. Green, Conductors of Oriental Christian Spectator.
Mr. Thurston, Mr. Woodbridge, Editor of Annals of
Education.
Mr. Spaulding, Pres. Abbot, Marietta, Ohio.
Dr. Judd, Dr. Muzzey, Dartmouth Coll. Hanover, N. H .
3
�26
TRANSLATIONS,
13.
ETC
( 1834.
Assignment o f Translations, <$rc.
The following resolutions were adopted.
1. That it be recommended to Mr. Bingham to continue
the translation of I Kings, and also to translate the book
of Leviticus in reference to printing an edition of the his
torical part of the Old Testament. W e also recommend the
revision and enlargement of the Hawaiian Hymn Book
upon the plan already commenced.
2. That it be recommended to Mr. Richards to revise
the Acts of the Apostles, translate the omitted passages of
the books of Exodus and Joshua, and correct the whole;
and to translate the book of Nehemiah.
3. That, in addition to previously assigned works, it be
recommended to Mr. Thurston to revise the book of Num
bers, translate the omitted passages; and also to translate
the book of Ezra.
4. That Genesis be assigned to Mr. Bishop to be revised
in accordance with the recommendation of this meeting
last year; and that he be requested to translate the I
Chronicles; and Colburn’s Algebra,— the latter to be re
viewed by Mr. Andrews for the H igh School.
*
5. That Mr. Green be requested to translate the II
Chronicles.
6. That the book of Esther be assigned to Mr. Dibble to
translate; and that he be requested to prepare a tract on
Juvenile Improvement on such a plan as he shall deem
most advisable; the former to be reviewed by Mr. Rich
ards, the latter by Mr. Andrews.
7. That the translation of the book of Proverbs be as
signed to Messrs. Andrews and Clark, and revised by
Mr. Richards.
8. T hat Mr. W hitney be requested to prepare a new
Geography upon the plan of W oodbridge’s or W orcester’s,
to be adapted to the geographical cuts in the printing
office, to be revised by Messrs. Andrews and Clark.
9. That the Hawaiian Almanac for 1835 be continued
to Messrs. Clark and Tinker, and that they also prepare
one for 1836.
10. That Mr. Gulick be requested to prepare a tract on
the evidences of true and false conversion, to be revised by
Mr. Bishop.
11. That Mr. Baldwin be requested to prepare questions
�1834.)
D EPO SI TOR Y.
27-
and references for the Ai o ha la for the year 1835, and
that it be prepared in season to have it printed by the first
of December next; to be revised by Mr. Bishop.
12. That all former appointments unfinished, and not
mentioned above, be continued.
13. The committee would further recommend, that the
printing committee be a standing committee of assignments
to give out any work which they may deem important, but
which may escape the attention of the special committee
appointed to report at the general meeting.
14. That a committee of six be chosen to transcribe in
a fair hand the answers to the questions of the Circular for
the use of the Board, or to cause them to be written,
together with a duplicate copy of them for the same purpose.
15. The committee recommend that the privilege grant
ed to the principal of the High School of requesting
assistance from the members of the different stations in the
preparation of books &c. be continued as before.
16. That Mr. Richards be appointed to revise the tract
on Ecclesiastical History by Mr. Green.
14.
Present Exigencies of the Depository.
The committee appointed to report on the present exigen
cies of the depository and other subjects, beg leave to state,
that they have given as much attention to the subjects
referred to them, as their time and circumstances would
admit.
The depository is at present in rather a destitute state,
being but partially supplied with the articles most needed
for the support of the mission.
Of flour, rice, sugar, molasses and soap, the quantity on
hand is a scanty supply for six months; salt provisions,
none; dried apples, none; articles of trade, a few bales
only of narrow unbleached cotton cloth purchased here,
which cost 15 cents per yard; clothing, none; shoes, a
partial supply. Of lumber the quantity on hand is as fol
lows; boards, about 2000 feet; joist, 1000 feet; thick
plank and other timber about 1500 feet; shingles and lath,
none ; clapboards, a very few. Of nails about 1500 lbs. are
on hand, but of these a small quantity only remain of the
sizes most needed: of glass 200 feet of 8 by 10, and 250
of 7 by 9; door handles, butts and screws, a good supply
�28
DEPO SI TOR Y.
( 1833.
for the present, but not enough to meet the wants of the
mission for any considerable length of time; chissels,
gouges, files, fore and smoothing planes a present supply,
but of other kinds of tools for which applications are of
ten made, the supply is scanty. The above enumeration
does not include every article in the depository nor every
deficiency, though it is supposed to be sufficiently full for
our present purpose.
All the cash needed to pay foreign workmen, to carry
on the work of the printing department, and to meet the
various calls for money, must be procured at an advance of
from 10 to 15 per-cent. The same advance will, in
general, be added to all purchases of the merchants, when
payment is made by drafts on the Board.
In view of the above:—
1st. It is recommended, that the families make out for
the use of the secular agent as soon as convenient, a list
of such articles as they deem indispensable for their present
necessities, and of such articles as they may need for six
or eight months to come; and that the secular agent be
instructed to procure, on the best terms in his power, such
articles, according to his discretion.
2nd. As to the extent to which the work of building
should be carried on the present year, the committee are
of opinion, in view of the present state of the depository,
and the difficulty attending the purchasing of building
materials, especially such as are from a foreign source,
that it can be carried on only in a limited degree, unless
the market should be unexpectedly supplied with materials
and offered for sale on moderate terms, or unless ma
terials should be sent out by the Board.
The following persons are supposed to have claims on
the means of building, in the following order:—
1. Equal. Rev. E. W . Clark, of the H igh School.
Rev. P. J. Gulick, Koloa, Kauai.
2. Rev. Dwight Baldwin, W aim ea, Hawaii.
3. Equal. Rev. E. Spaulding. Dr. A. Chapin, Lahaina.
4. Equal. Rev. L. Lyons, Hamakua. Rev. D. B.
Lyman, Hilo.
5. Equal. Rev. W . P. Alexander, H analei or else
where on Kauai. Rev. R. Armstrong, H ana, or else
where on Maui. Rev. L. Smith, at Ewa, Oahu. Rev.
B. W . Parker, Hawaii or Oahu.
�>834 ,)
M
po sit o r y .
29
All the brethren, who have been located by this meet
ing, will have claims far lumber sufficient for doors and
windows of native or dobie houses, which is supposed to be
the kind of house that will be erected on first taking their
stations. Several of them will need some articles of furni
ture; for the making of which some provision may be
properly contemplated out of lumber on hand in the de
pository and at some of the stations.
3. As to style of building, the committee are of opinion,
that neatness, convenience and economy should be united
in the structure of our houses; but they think that what is
merely for ornament or to gratify taste, should be dispensed
with; as a plain, simple style is most becoming in mission
aries. And they would advise that each missionary in
laying out a plan which shall include permanency, should
keep these general principles in view; and, in all cases,
that the dimensions of a building should be the subject of
very particular attention. In laying out a plan, the differ
ence of expense should be carefully considered between
very moderate, ample and more extended accommodations,
and all circumstances be taken into account in fixing on
dimension; and also when making provision for conven
iences as closets, pantries, clothes presses, book cases in
the walls, &c. that strict rules of economy be not trans
gressed.
Though it is desirable that a house should be completely
finished in the first instance, it may not always be expedi
ent. And your committee are of opinion, that, as pilgrims
and strangers, and liable to leave the field or to remove
into another part of it, it may often be suitable that a house
be only partially finished; and that firm walls, a tight roofr
and suitable partitions should be regarded sufficient at
first, unless an entire finish could be effected economically
and without an infringement of the rights of others.
4. On the subject of more than one permanent house at
a station for the accommodation of more than one ordained
missionary, the committee are of opinion, that more than one
at out stations or where the population is not very dense is
not, in general, advisable, particularly as the number of mis
sionaries in the field is now so great, that stations may be
taken at such convenient distances from each other, thaf
visits can be made, and m cases of need, assitance afford
ed, without much expense of time or labor of travelling.
3* *
�30
MISCELLANEOUS.
( 1834.
As a general thing, the pastoral duties of a station can
be performed by one missionary better than by two; and
unless there are many other duties for the second mission
ary to perform as a preacher simply, or a teacher of schools
or editor of a periodical, more good would be done to the
cause at large, by his having a separate location and labor
ing in a distinct field. It is the belief of your committee,
that, a missionary ought to reside among the people of his
charge; and that, consequently, his permanent house should
be built as near the centre of his field of labor, as the
situation of the country and other circumstances will admit.
5th. Respecting an arrangement with Messrs. Brinsmade, Ladd and Hooper to furnish supplies for the mission,
it does not seem expedient to close a bargain with them
without first consulting the Board, nor to make overtures
which shall stand in the way of supplies being sent to us ac
cording to the ordinary method. It is not intended by these
remarks to imply, that an arrangement with that house may
not be expedient, as soon as the conditions upon which they
propose, to do the business can be transmitted to the Board;
and the different families of the Mission shall be able to
make out complete lists of their wants.
The committee would, therefore, recommend, that each
family of the mission make out a complete list of wants for
tv/o yeaxs from this time, and transmit the same in the
course of thee months, to the secular agent, in order that
he may confer with M essrs. Brinsmade, Ladd and Hooper:
and that the secular agent, after having obtained the lowest
terms on which they will d ) the business, he requested to
communicate the same to the Secretaries of the Board.
M ISC E L L A N E O U S B U SIN ESS.
Letters from the Board,
As delays unavoidably attend the circulation of general
letters through the Mission, in consequence of which, some
members are deprived for a long time of the perusal of
them, and as such documents should be in possession of all,
Resolved, That the Printing Committee provide each mem
ber of the Mission with copies of all letters from the Board,
which, in their judgment, it will be expedient to print.
�1834 .)
MISCELLANEOUS.
31
Rules fo r the Regulation of the Meeting}
Supplimentary and amendatory to the Standing Rules
heretofore adopted. (See Minutes, 1830, p. 36.)
1. On Elections.
All elections shall be made by ballot, but in case ari
elected member of a committee of more than one is excused
by the meeting, his place may be supplied by a majority of
lifted hands upon a nomination proceeding from the chair
and seconded by a member of the said committee; and one
or more members may in the same way, on motion at any
time, be added to a committee without a ballot. •
2. O f Committees and Reports.
It is understood that committees of the meeting and
standing committees of the Mission shall attend to the
duties assigned them and *report in due season, but they
may, if they choose, report in part, or fully, or simply re
port progress at the call of the moderator, and be at liberty
to ask the views of the meeting on particular points not
sufficiently understood, and these points may be settled by
a vote of the meeting as instructions to the committee.
When the committee has fully reported it shall be con
sidered as discharged, and the report open for amendment,
adoption, recommitment, or to be laid on the table. The
committee being discharged by reporting, it may be revi
ved by a vote of the meeting, and the same matter re
committed to them, unless a majority of said committee
object.
The meeting shall have power to refer by vote any new
subject to any existing committee.
3. Discussions.
It is equally allowable for each member to read or speak
on the merits of a subject in debate, always addressing the
chair.
When the subject of an overture is taken up by the
meeting it is considered as open for free discussion on its
merits generally, until a motion or resolution is offered for
disposing of it.
When a definite question is pending no member shall
speak more than twice, except with permission from the
chair at his own request.
4. O f Order.
The moderator has power to decide questions of order in
�32
MISCELLANEOUS.
( 1834.
all cases. An appeal from his decision may, however, be
made, by any member, and if seconded, the reasons may
be stated and the question shall be put.
Population of the Islands.
Resolved, That 130,000 be considered the present popu
la t io n of the Sandwich Islands, and that all reports con
taining estimates, etc. based on the population, be conform
ed thereto.
Mr. Johnstone1s connexion with the Oahu Charity School.
Voted, That the mission approve of Mr. and Mrs. John
stone’s continuing their connexion with the Oahu Charity
School for the present year, on the same conditions and for
the same reasons, as the last year. (See M inutes, 1833,
p. 20.)
M r. Rogers9 connexion with the Mission<
W hereas this Mission at the annual meeting of 1833,
passed a resolution cordially approving of the purpose of
Mr. Rogers to place himself on the same footing in all re
spects with other assistant missionaries of the Board in this
field; and whereas the Prudential Committee of the Ameri
can Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions in April,
1833, 41 Resolved, That Mr. Rogers be appointed an as
sistant missionary of the Board. with the understanding that
he perform the di-ties of a printer in connexion with the
Mission at the Sandwich islands; provided the Mission
shall be of the opinion, when assembled in general meeting,
that such an a p p o i n t m e n t will1 be advantageous to the
cause;” and whereas our confidence in M r. Rogers as a
Christian and faithful agent of the Board in the printing
department of this Mission is undirmnished;
Resolved, That we cheerfully recognize M r. Edmund
H. Rogers as an assistant m ssionary, agreeably to the in
tentions of the Prudential Committee as expressed in their
resolution above quoted.
Seamens Preacher.
Resolved, That this meeting suggest to the Rev. M r.
Diell the inquiry, whether the American Seamen *s Friend
Society can provide for the many seamen who touch at
�1834.)
MISCELLANEOUS.
33
Lahaina, either by furnishing a laborer for that post, or by
supporting in part one of the missionaries of the A. B. C.
F. M. whose time shall be devoted to the seamen’s cause
at that place.
D E A T H O F M R . S I IE P A R D A N D M RS. R O G E R S .
W hereas in the infinitely wise and perfect plan
o f Providence w e are called to part w ith a fellow
laborer, brother S t e p h e n S h e p a r d , who yesterday
departed in peace, the first o f the brethren who
has fallen in this field, and one who has cheerfully
performed the labors and patiently endured the
suffering’s o f m issionary life for the sake o f Christ
even unto the end, resting his hope o f acceptance
solely 011 the merits of h i s blood;
Resolved , W hile w e sym pathise w ith his bereaved
fam ily w ho h ave lost in him an affectionate husband
and a kind father, and w ith the friends of our cause
w ho h ave lost a useful helper in this nation’s im
provem ent, w e regard his humble unceasing de
votedness to Christ as a useful lesson o f instruction;
as w e do that also o f our beloved sister, Mrs. M a r y
W . R o g e r s , who preceded him but a few w eeks,
and their early departure as a suitable admonition
to their associates to be alw ay s faithful, alw ays
ready, alw ay s abounding in the work o f the Lord,
and w aitin g his w ill.
Resolved , T h at w e suspend the deliberations of
the General M eeting, to attend on the religious
duties suited to the present occasion, and to com
mit to the dust his mortal rem ains, as w e have so
recen tly those of our sister, with the consoling hope
of their future resurrection to eternal life and glory.
»Monday, July 7, 1834.
Next General Meeting.
Resolved, That when this meeting adjourns, it adjourn
to meet the first week of June next at Kailua on Hawaii.
That should any circumstances unforeseen take place*
�34
MISCELLANEOUS.
( 1834,
materially affecting the question, the recording secretary,
with the majority of those who expect to attend the general
meeting at either place, have power to change it to Honolulu.
Salary System.
On the question, “ What steps shall be taken towards
introducing the salary system?” Voted, that a committee
of three be appointed to take the subject into consideration
and to report on the same at the next annual meeting.
The committee are Messrs. L. Andrews, L. Chamberlain, and W. Richards.
Medical Aid.
Resolved, That it is not expedient at present to alter the
location of either of the physicians of the Mission.
2.
That it be considered unadvisable and improper that
the pastoral labors of Mr. Baldwin be interrupted by calls
upon him as a physician, except in those cases where a
regular physician of the mission cannot be obtained; or
where, in the judgment of those, whom he may consult, it
may be deemed expedient for him to attend; and that the
dependence on Mr. Baldwin for medical aid ought not to
be such as to interfere with a change in his residence.
Boohs Printed at the High School.
On motion, Yoted, that when books printed at. the High
School shall in the opinion of the instructors, together with
Mr. Richards, be adapted to the wants of the station
schools, they be required to print an extra number above
what is needed for the High School and to furnish from 30
to 50 copies or an avarage of 40 to each of the station
schools.
Vocabulary.
On motion, Voted, that Mr, Andrews prepare a vocabula
ry of the Hawaiian language.
Maps and Sketches.
Resolved that the member or members of each station on
the islands be instructed to make and forward to the Mis
sionary Rooms as far as they may be able, sketches of their
particular fields of labor, exhibiting their several preaching
places &x; and also that they forward drawings of their
stations, or of some of the most interesting buildings or
scenes at these stations.
�1834.)
MISCELANEOUS.
35
Paper and Blank Forms.
On motion, voted, that the secular agent be requested to
furnish for the members of the mission paper of a uniform
size to be used in writing to the missionary Rooms and
for copies of papers for the use of the Mission.
Voted also, that the secular agent be requested to make
out blank tabular views of schools, churches Sic., to be
printed for the use of the stations, and to be annually filled
for the use of general meetings.
Voted, furthermore, that the secular agent be requested
to furnish printed blank forms for the use of each station to
facilitate their efforts, and to secure correctness and uni
formity in their station accounts both in respect to the sale
of books, particularly on the Bible Society7s account, and
the sale and purchase of all articles of ordinary trade at
the station.
Printing Department.
Made choice of Messrs. Bingham, Chamberlain, Judd,
and Tinker as printing committee for the ensuing year.
On motion, voted, that it be the business of the printing
committee'to designate the books which shall be printed at
the expense of the several Societies which have made do
nations for the purpose of furnishing the Sandwich Islanders
with books.
Voted, also, that Mr. Rogers be requested to take charge
of the bindery as well as of the work in the printing office
for the ensuing year, and to employ such laborers to aid in
carrying forward the work as, in his opinion and that of the
printing committee, shall be most likely to subserve the in
terests of the mission.
That until a regular binder can be obtained, it be re
commended to the different stations to furnish themselves
with simple apparatus, and encourage binding to some
extent to relieve the labor of the office.
That the Printing Committee be instructed to print, at
discretion, portions of the minutes of the general meeting.
�CO N TENTS.
page.
Members p r e s e n t , .................................. ... ..................... 3
Organization of the M e e t i n g , ......................................... 4
List of O vertures,................................................................ 4
Washington Islands’ M is s io n ,......................................... 4
Reports of S ta tio n s ,.......................................................... 5
Reports of Standing Com m ittees,..................................... 5
Report of the Directors of the H igh School, . . . . 8— 12
Questions of the C ircu lar,........................................ ...
13
Location of M issionaries,...................................................13
Report on S ch o o ls,............................................................. 14
Report on N e w s p a p e r,......................................................15
Expenses of the Children of the Mission, . . . .
16— 18
Public Library, Periodicals, &c............................... 19—20
M anner of Accounting to the American Bible Society, 21
Ship for Missionary P u rp o s e s ,.................... ....................22
Correspondence, ................................................... . 23—25
Assignment of Translations, &c............. ...........................26
Present Exigencies of the D ep o sito ry ,................. 27—30
Miscellaneous Business.
Letters from the B o ard ,........................................................30
Rules for the Regulation of the M e e t i n g ,.................... 31
Population of the Isla n d s,.................................................. 32
Mr. Johnstone’s connexion with the Oahu Charity School, 32
Mr. Rogers’ connexion with the M is s io n ,.................... 32
Seamen’s Preacher, ......................................................... 32
Death of Mr. Shepard and Mrs. R o g e r s , ^
33
Next General M e e t i n g , ...................................................33
Salary S y s te m ,...................................................... ...............34
Medical A i d , .......................................................................34
Books Printed at the High School,..................................34
V ocabulary,..........................................................................34
Maps and S k e tc h e s ,......................................................... 34
Paper and Blank F o rm s ,.................................................. 35
Printing D ep artm en t,......................................................... 35
�
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes
Dublin Core
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Sandwich Islands Mission Meeting Minutes - 1834
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1834