Thomas Square

A Piece of Hawaiian History

Hawaii's oldest public park, Thomas Square has been part of Honolulu since 1850, and its 6.5 acres carry stories from the islands' past that might surprise you.

Ever wondered about the park's name? It honors British Rear Admiral Richard Darton Thomas, who played a pivotal role in returning power to the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1843 after a brief and rather awkward period when the British decided to claim the islands for themselves.

More Than a Pretty Park

Thomas Square isn't just historically significant - it's the very spot where King Kamehameha III spoke the words that would eventually become Hawaii's state motto: "Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina i ka Pono" (The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness).

This happened on July 31, 1843, when Admiral Thomas formally ended the five-month British takeover led by Captain Lord George Paulet. Hawaiians still commemorate this moment every July 31st during Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea or Restoration Day, highlighting the park's significance in Hawaiian history.

The stone wall at the northeast corner with lush trees providing shade

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

What You'll Find There

Surrounded by neatly trimmed mock orange hedges, the park features a cascading fountain at its center that's particularly striking in the evening when lit up with colorful lights.

Tree lovers will appreciate the magnificent banyan trees offering generous shade - ideal for those hot Hawaiian afternoons. The flowering shower trees and Hawaiian "fish poison" trees add character to the landscape. Some of these leafy giants have been standing for over a hundred years, silently watching Honolulu transform around them.

There's plenty of lawn space for spreading out a picnic blanket or just lounging with a good book. If you look carefully, you might notice the pathways form the pattern of a British flag - a subtle nod to the park's historical connections.

Mature banyan trees create a canopy around the center of the park

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Modern Touches with Historical Respect

In 2018, the park received a meaningful addition: a 12-foot high bronze sculpture of Kamehameha III stands proudly alongside a flagpole flying the Hawaiian flag. This installation marked the 175th anniversary of Hawaiian sovereignty being restored.

It's worth noting that Thomas Square is one of just four sites in Hawaii where the Hawaiian flag can fly solo, without the U.S. flag alongside it - a small but significant honor.

Though the park has seen several updates over the decades, its most substantial renovation was completed back in 1967, yet it maintains its historical charm.

A bronze sculpture of King Kamehameha III stands prominently in Thomas Square

Photo: Daniel Ramirez (CC BY 2.0)

A Park for Everyone

Today, Thomas Square functions as a community gathering place. You'll find it hosting cultural events and activities year-round, including the King's Runner 10k run.

We've seen healthcare workers from nearby Straub Hospital enjoying their lunch breaks under the shade of those century-old trees. of those century-old trees. The central location makes it an ideal escape from urban life - a place to walk your dog, meet friends, or simply enjoy a moment of quiet reflection.

Beyond its history and greenery, the park offers an accessible outdoor space for small gatherings and activities in the middle of bustling Honolulu.