HONOLULU (KHON2) – We all know that downtown Honolulu has many buildings.
But within those buildings, there are some gems that have been preserved from yesterday and one of those building is the building that we are in know.
It is known as the Judiciary Building but its name is Ali’iōlani Hale and it was 150 years ago this month.
There will be an event this Saturday to celebrate such an occasion, but within this building, there is also 150 years of history.
So, to find out more about that, we are here with Ahukini Fuertes who is the Hawaiian Language Education Specialist.
You know what I think is fascinating is that many of us pass by this building every single day but many not take notice.
We are right across the street from ‘Iolani Palace, this is the building with the King Kamehameha the Great statue right in front.
But what are some of the milestones or some significant points of this building that we all should be aware of?
“Well, in 1874 when the building opened its doors, it was the official capitol building for the Kingdom of Hawai’i housing the legislative hall which is where we are seated now currently,” says Fuertes.
“It was also the home of Hawai’i Supreme Court and served as the seat of government for the Kingdom of Hawai’i throughout the monarchy period. Today, the building serves as the administrative headquarters for the Hawai’i State Judiciary but what is very unique about it is that it has been the home to the Supreme Court of Hawai’i since its establishment.”
Allow me to add one more to Ahukini’s list: Ali’iōlani Hale was one of the tallest buildings in Honolulu at its time.
Cant say that anymore, but to celebrate the 150 years of this building, we are here with Keahe Davis who is the Education Director.
For the public though and this weekend’s event, what can they expect?
“So, they can expect to have a great time here,” says Davis.
“We are going to be working with Hawaiian Mission Houses, with their theatre there. So, we will have some historical figures for the folks to speak with. Folk like Emma Nakuina who was the curator of the museum, the National Museum here at Ali’iōlani Hale. Also, William C Parke who was marshal during the Kingdom period, and William Richards.”
150 years into this for Ali’iōlani Hale.
What are your hopes for the next 150 years?
“We continue to be a resource for the people of Hawai’i,” says Davis.
“So, in addition to the event we have this Saturday, of course we are open Monday through Friday to the public. Folks are welcome to come in and tour our exhibits. We also have school group tours as well as teacher professional development opportunities.”
For this weekend’s event, doors open at 12:30p.
For the days throughout the week, services and tours will be available for the public.
For all that information, click here.