The exact number of civilian casualties resulting from the Pearl Harbor attack are still open to debate today, but on the 10th anniversary of the attack in 1951, the Aloha Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution cast about for a suitable way of commemorating the event. They came up with this plaque, which was dedicated on Feb. 21, 1952.

It reads "In Memory of Those Civilians Who Lost Their Lives in Hawaii as a Result of the Japanese Attack on Hawaii, December 7, 1941" and is signed "Placed by Aloha Chapter NSDAR." Acting Gov. Frank G. Serrao gave a speech as it was unveiled.

The Aloha Chapter of the DAR had a reputation for doing things differently from the conservative, mostly East-Coast organization. For example, when the national organization condemned the notions of foreign aid, interracial marriage, firearms registration and the United Nations, the Aloha Chapter strongly protested.

The plaque was retained and cleaned as part of the Hawaii State Library's renovation a couple of years ago. It is however, often difficult to see these days, because it's generally hidden behind a hot-dog cart.