A SAD ENDING
Achieving recognition of the Hawaiian Kingdom by the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of France as an independent country was a tremendous achievement by the team led by Timoteo Ha`alilio.
After gaining recognition of Hawaiian independence, Ha`alilio and William Richards headed home. But sadly, when their ship finally arrived in Honolulu on 23 March 1845 only Richards disembarked to carry sad news to Kamehameha III, Kauikeaouli.
Timoteo Haʻalilio the close friend and confidante of the King, the one most trusted by the King, and the one who served his country with great honor had died at sea on his way home on the 3rd of December 1844. He was 36 years of age.
All Hawai`i wailed and mourned for the loss of this great champion of their Kingdom.
Today we honor Timoteo Ha`alilio for his service, his grace, his humility and his ultimate sacrifice in securing the recognition of the Hawaiian Kingdom as a sovereign, independent country.
