September 11, 1852: Richardson v. Kekeanui

In this civil matter, Richardson brought suit against Kekeanui for the debt of $2.50 owed for a pair of shoes meant for Kekeanui’s wife. In the introductory paragraph provided below, Circuit Court Judge John Richardson first provides the procedural history of the case. Specifically, that the case was originally heard by District Judge Harbottle (for the district of Kipahulu and Kaupo) who ruled in favor of the plaintiff. The case was brought before Judge Richardson in his chambers. The case provides interesting insight into the value and exchange rate for commodities and services–for example, the value of olonā, paʻakai, and hauling baggage in exchange for a pair of women’s shoes.

An excerpt of this case is provided below.

Available in Judiciary Branch Records, 242-2 Civil and Criminal Minute Books of 2d CC, Judge John Richardson, July 1852-December 1853.

Josepih [sic?] Richardson e kue ana ia Kekeanui no ka aie i na dala elua a me hapalua no ka paa kamaa.

Ua hana mua ia keia hihia imua o Aikake Harbolte Lunakanawai Apana o Kpahulu a me Kaupo, a ua hooholoia ka olelo mamuli o ka aoao hoopii, a ua hoohalahala ka mea i hoopiiia, a ua hoopii hou mai, elike me ke kanawai no na hoopii ma na aha Apana a i ka Lunakanawai Kaapuni ma kona Keena. A hookolokolo hou ia laua i keia la.