Lot 467
Prince Leleiohoku, Autograph Letter Signed, 1 page, July 3, 1876, reads "My dear Mr Jarrett. Please find enclosed R.A. Lyman's letter, and would like to know from you as soon as possible whether I have to meet Bishop Co's draft for $145.25 for R.A. Lyman's services or not… Yrs truly, Leleiohoku"; stationer's imprint at top left, Very Fine.Estimate $2,000 - 3,000.
A RARE AUTOGRAPHED HANDWRITTEN LETTER FROM PRINCE LELIOHOKU, WHO WOULD DIE LESS THAN ONE YEAR LATER FROM RHEUMATIC FEVER AT THE AGE OF 23. DUE TO HIS YOUNG AGE, HIS LETTERS ARE EXCEPTIONALLY RARE.
Prince William Pitt Leleiohoku II, born William Pitt Kalahoolewa (1855-1877) and adopted at birth by Princess Ruth Keelikolani, was a prince of the Kingdom of Hawaii and member of the reigning House of Kalakaua. He is remembered for composing the Hawaiian War Chant. He was educated at the present day Iolani School, which was called the Saint Alban's College at the time. An accomplished musician, he founded several royal choral societies that survive today including the Kawaihao Church Singing Club. He was named the Crown Prince by his brother Kalakaua in 1874, with the consent of the House of Nobles and granted the title of Prince and style of "His Royal Highness". He became a member of the Privy Council and House of Nobles and ruled as Prince-regent when Kalakaua visited the United States. On April 10, 1877 at the age of 23, Prince Leleiohoku died of rheumatic fever. Because Leleiohoku was unmarried and had no children, his brother King Kalakaua named their sister Liliuokalani Crown Princess.
Realized: $3,750