David McHattie Forbes
David McHattie Forbes (July 21, 1863–1937) was an influential plant manager, judge and explorer with substantial achievements in the Hawaiian Islands at the turn of the 19th century. Born in Scotland as son of Alexander and Mary (McHattie) Forbes, he died in Hilo, Hawaii; educated in common schools and night school, Scotland; married Cassie Lougher at Waiakea, Hilo, August 7, 1895; five children, Blodwen F., Merlyn M, Allister M., Dyfrig M., Betty F. Started to work in private estate nurseries of Moray, Scotland, 1879; forests of same estate, 1882; nurseries of Dixon & Co., Edinburgh, 1883; Foreman Forester, estate of Fletchers Saltonhall,1885; came to Kukuihaele, Hawaii, 1887, for H. W. Purvis; when plantation was transferred to Pacific Sugar Mill Company, went with that concern as timekeeper; became head luna and succeeded Von Mergerseñ as manager, 1894; returned to Scotland, 1910, returning to Waiakea, Hawaii in 1912. Was member of Hamakua Roadboard; served as 1st Lieut, in army of Provisional Government. Is 32° Mason, B. P. O. E.; member of Royal Arboricultural Society of Scotland. Listed in "Men of Hawaii".[1]
Kukuihaele is the site of the original Hawaiian Island stand of cinchona trees, from which quinine is made. It was planted by David McHattie Forbes in the early 1900s.[2]
A Banyan Tree still stands in his honor at Banyan Drive in Hilo, Hawaii, also known as the "Hilo Walk of Fame." Throughout the years celebrities in all walks of life have planted small banyan sapling to have them grow into the giant memorials.
References
- ^ Men of Hawaii: Being a Biographical Reference Library, Complete and Authentic, of the Men of Note and Substantial Achievement in the Hawaiian Islands : Volume 1. By John William Siddall. Published by Honolulu Star-Bulletin, 1917
- ^ http://www.city-data.com/city/Kukuihaele-Hawaii.html