Examination of Honolulu Schools: 1857

Within a few days it has been our privilege to attend the examination of the Royal School, and the Honolulu Free School, (formerly Oahu Charity School).

Verily, a school-teacher toiling from day to day to impart the rudiments of an English education to the children of our city, deserves to be well paid, and merits the gratitude of parents. Our readers will, of course, understand us as referring to the faithful teacher, as we believe the teachers of these schools really are. It is trying and responsible work, but still encouraging. We can speak of improvements, for we know what these schools were, and what they are now.

The Royal School is made up almost exclusively of the more advanced pupils, gathered from the native schools in which the English language is taught. Most of the scholars in this school now speak the English language with propriety and distinctness.

The Honolulu Free School is made up of pupils gathered from various sources. It would be difficult to determine exactly how many nations are there represented. We have frequently visited the school for the last fifteen years, but never saw it appear better than it did on the day of its last semi-annual examination.

Source: The Friend, Honolulu: June 25, 1857.