The King of Fiji, Ratu Cakobau
THESE are events that occurred between 1880 and 1899.
February 3, 1883
NEWS was received in Levuka of the demise of the Tui Viti, and Vunivalu of Bau, Ratu Seru Cakobau.
The Fiji Times reported the high ranked chief had succumbed to a large abscess on the back.
Ratu Cakobau was born on the chiefly island of Bau in 1817.
Though opposed by several powerful chiefs in Bau and the Rewa Province, he obtained the preeminence by force of character and deep diplomatic cleverness, out-witting those whom he could not bear down by force of imperious will.
In 1870, by consent of leading chiefs and allies including white settlers, Ratu Cakobau was made — King of Fiji.
A reprint of an article in 1883 quoted; "He had a proud term of office, brief and clouded however with many anxieties, bristling with difficulties and loaded with vastly increased liabilities, until, with a feeling of relief, he yielded the scepter to the Queen of England. Though haughty with a most patrician pride, and stern as a rock, he could be good hearted and kind, especially to little children."
October 18, 1882
Total population of Fijians was recorded at 114,748.
May 25, 1885
A requisition bearing the names of more than 60 townspeople was presented to the then Warden asking him to call a meeting at an early date with a view to take necessary steps towards annexing Fiji to New Zealand.
May 2, 1888
Tenders were advertised for the opening of Waimanu Rd, Suva.
June 7, 1890
The work of cutting through Butt St was almost complete.
May 23, 1891
A great fire swept through Suva. The entire block of buildings occupied by the leading commercial men of the town, together with their valuable stock, were prey to the flames which started from Pier and continued to Thomson St.
A total of £30,000 ($F85,855.50) was recorded in the damage.
July 17, 1899
Gold was discovered at the upper water area of the Rewa River. Parties were immediately organised to hold expeditions.