For more than a century, Kamehameha Schools has honored the life and vision of its founder, Ke Aliʻi Bernice Pauahi Pākī Bishop, through the annual celebration of Founder’s Day. Each December 19, the daylong event unites students, staff and alumni in humble reverence, reflecting on Pauahi’s enduring legacy in Hawaiʻi while carrying forward traditions rooted in gratitude and service.
The tradition began in 1888, a year after the school’s opening, with her husband Charles Bishop’s inaugural address setting the tone for what would become an annual observance of reflection.
“The improvement of young Hawaiians was an object and desire constantly near to the heart of the founder of the Schools,” Bishop said in his speech, urging students to honor Pauahi’s legacy through industriousness, character and leadership. Following the ceremony, a grand lūʻau was held, with historical accounts noting that King Kalākaua himself was in attendance.
In its early years, Founder’s Day centered on solemn ceremonies that included readings of Bishop’s speech, hymns and biographies of Pauahi’s life. Over time, the event evolved to incorporate more cultural and artistic elements. By 1893, students began adorning Pauahi’s final resting place at Maunaʻala with lei – a tradition that continues to this day. In milestone years, such as the 25th anniversary, the celebration expanded into a three-day event with dinners and sports games capping the festivities.
In 1904, the program featured “Pauahi Ke Aliʻi,” an original composition celebrating her regal grace and dedication to her people. “Blest type of womanhood, so true, so pure, so good,” reads the song before listing her genealogy and touching tributes from those who knew her. Even during devastating times, like the Great Depression and World War II, KS pupils wrote about Founder’s Day celebrations fondly despite the realities of a changing world. In editions of “Ka Mōʻī,” next to the day’s program and speakers, were stories about students making gifts for soldiers and efforts to use more ‘ōlelo Hawaiʻi in the chapel.
Throughout the decades, certain elements have remained constant as expressions of gratitude are always at the heart of the service. As students gather to perform mele and oli and share heartfelt messages, they recommit to the values Pauahi instilled in them through the education they receive.
A 1924 issue of “The Cadet” captured this sentiment, noting that Mr. W.E. Givens, during a Sunday chapel service, highlighted the importance of “making the most of school opportunities and appreciating Mrs. Bishop, who sacrificed a throne to establish these schools.”
What began as a humble gathering to honor Pauahi’s memory has grown into a beloved tradition that transcends time, uniting past, present and future generations of our Kamehameha Schools ʻohana. Through Founder’s Day, the profound impact of Bernice Pauahi Bishop’s life and vision continues to inspire, ensuring her legacy endures for centuries to come.
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