Once a small Hawaiian fishing village, Kailua-Kona grew to become the political, social, and commercial center of Kona in the 19th century. When King Kamehameha I chose Kailua to be his home, Kailua became the capital of Hawai`i for several years. Historic structures such as Hulihe`e Palace, Moku`aikaua Church, and St. Michael’s Catholic Church indicate Kailua-Kona's importance as a royal residence and center for early missionary activity.