Honolulu

Honolulu, the capital of the Hawaiian or Sandwich Islands, is situated on the southern coast of the island of Oahu. It is at once the seat of government and the commercial centre of the Hawaiian state; but it was not originally the capital, and its importance is of modern growth, being due to the fact that its harbour is the only really well-protected port in the Archipelago. The harbour, which has attracted Honolulu first whaling vessels and subsequently traders of all kinds, is not a large one. It is entered through an opening in the coral-reef, is 150 yards wide at the entrance, and extends for rather more than a mile in a north and south direction. The town stands close to the shore, on a narrow plain at the mouth of the Nuuam valley, which runs back between cliffs into the main range of Eastern Mountains. The strip of flat land on which the town is built is naturally bare and dry, and the mountains, which protect the harbour from the north-easterly trade-winds, also keep off the rain, so that the rainfall at Honolulu is much smaller than in some other parts of the islands. Water-works, however, supply irrigation, which keeps the gardens of the town bright with flowers and foliage. The centre of the town is well laid out in rectangular streets, with houses built in European style; most of the appliances of civilisation are to be found, notably telephones; there are fine government buildings, and an interesting public library. The climate is pleasant, the least healthy time being when southerly or south-westerly breezes blow; food-supplies are plentiful; and ships running between America and Asia or Australasia constantly call at the port. The population is estimated at over 20,000, including a large number of foreigners; for the trade is almost entirely in foreign hands, and the town is described as 'having a thoroughly American aspect.' See also HAWAII.