[HAWAIIAN IMPRINT] - [John S. EMERSON]

He Hoakakaolelo No Na Huaolelo Beritania, I Mea Kokua I Na Kanaka Hawaii E Ao Ana Ia Olelo

Lahainaluna: Mea Pai Palapala o ke Kulanui, 1845. 8vo. (9 1/4 x 5 1/2 inches). x, 184pp. Text in two columns.

Expertly bound to style in dark blue straight grain morocco backed contemporary marbled paper covered boards. Some dampstaining.

Provenance: Dr. Benjamin F. Hardy (signature dated 1856 on front free endpaper and ink inscription on title, "First book of the language of Hawaii")

The first English-Hawaiian dictionary.

"The first English-Hawaiian dictionary, and one of the most important publications of the Lahainaluna Press" (Forbes). In the preface, Rev. Emerson states: "The design of this work is primarily to aid Hawaiian youth of intelligence in acquiring a knowledge of the English language; and it is intended, in connection with the grammar, to furnish them adequate help, under the direction of the living teacher, until they can use the English Dictionary with English Definitions." This copy contains the contemporary ownership signature of Dr. Benjamin F. Hardy, who was one of the original members of the first Board of Health in Hawaii established by King Kamehameha in 1851.

Forbes 1551; Judd 277; DAB IX, p.381.

Item #25392

Price: $7,500.00