March 1 is the feast day of St. David - the patron saint of Wales. The most famous Welshman in Hawaii was Isaac Davis. From the National Park Service (at this link),
The end of the 1700s was marked by increased visits to the Hawaiian Islands by European explorers. With their trade ships, warships, cannon, and military experience, the foreigners were considered assets by the warring chiefs.
Kamehameha was particularly astute on this point and took captive two young seamen, John Young (Lancaster, England) and Isaac Davis (Pembrokeshire, Wales). Young and Davis proved their courage and loyalty in battle and became close, trusted lieutenants to Kamehameha, aiding in his rise to power. Their relationship lasted far beyond the battlefield and into civilian life, with Young eventually becoming governor on the Island of Hawai'i, and Davis on the island of O'ahu.
In honor of St. David's Day, I share my pictures of Welsh Castles cared by CADW, the guardian of Welsh heritage (at this link).
 The Roman amphitheater at Caerleon  Caerphilly Castle, guarding a town known for its cheese. |
Victorian sink in Castle Coch
The clock tower at Cardiff Castle
Tintern Abbey, founded in 1131 for Cisercian monks
What do you know about Wales? One randomly selected commenter wins a book choice from my convention stash. This giveaway is open to all readers. Comments are open through Saturday, March 2, 10 pm in Hawaii. I'll post the winner on Sunday, March 3.
Mahalo,
Kim in Hawaii
White Castle (sans hamburgers)
