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About Us |
Biography of Founder Queen Emma (continued) |
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The British did not indulge children, while the Hawaiians did. Dr. Rooke did his best not to allow Emma to be spoiled rotten by Grace, her hanai (Hawaiian for adopted) mother, whom she called Kiawai.
Emma grew up speaking both Hawaiian and English, the latter "with a perfect English accent." She began formal schooling at age 5 in the Chief's Children's School, where she was quick and bright in her studies.
At age 13, Dr. Rooke hired an English governess, Sarah Rhodes von Pfister, to tutor young Emma. He also encouraged reading from his extensive library. As a writer, he influenced Emma's interest in reading and books. By the time she was 20 years old, she was a beautiful and accomplished young woman.
She was 5'2," slender, well-proportioned, with large, beautiful black eyes. Her musical talents as a fine vocalist, talented pianist and good dancer were well known. She was also a skilled horsewoman.
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