The Most Powerful Member Of The Government

by Gino Gosiaco

Dr. Judd was a missionary doctor. He later officially became Minister of Finance, but he acted more like a prime minister. Dr. Judd Helped out with the kingdoms finance and kept them in good order. Dr. Judd saw the national debt was paid and he did as much as he could to keep the government strong and functional. Dr. Judd was a little bit like Ka'ahumanu, somewhat autocratic, and this is how he got into trouble. He spoke Hawaiian language very well. He was a personal friend of the king, Kamehameha III (Kauikeaouli). Some of his best work was in foreign affairs for Hawaii.

Dr. Gerrit Parmele Judd was born on April 23, 1803 in Paris, New York. He married Laura Fish on September 20, 1827 in Clinton, New York. Together they had nine children: 5 girls, 2 boys, and a set of twins (a boy and girl.)

Dr. Judd came to Hawaii in 1827. While he was coming to Hawaii he wrote a book called "Anatomia." (about the anatomy of the human body). Dr. Judd wrote secret documents and hid it in the royal tombs. He used Ka'ahumanu's coffin as his desk. James Marshall carried these secret documents during the Paulet Episode.

Judd became one of the most powerful members of the Hawaiian government.