Almost all of Lahaina’s historic buildings were damaged or completely destroyed in the August 2023 wildfire. Building foundations and some historic building materials remain; though significant planning, funding, coordination, and community engagement is needed to rebuild these historic structures. The fires also destroyed several of Lahaina’s museums, the Na ʻAikane o Maui Hawaiian cultural center, as well as many irreplaceable historical artifacts. A new museum space in Lahaina would provide a space to share the history of Lahaina and house artifacts, while a multicultural center would provide a space to learn, practice culture and strengthen the spiritual, mental and physical health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Lahaina has a rich history and culture, and it important to preserve and revitalize these historical and cultural spaces for the community.
This project will honor the culture and history of Lahaina by partnering with Lahaina community members, supporting government agencies, historic property owners, and community groups involved in historic and cultural preservation and restoration. This project includes key efforts such as:
- Preservation and/or reconstruction of historic buildings in Lahaina lost to the fire
- Creation of a museum in Lahaina to share the history of Lahaina with the community and visitors
- Establishment of a multicultural center for community members to gather and celebrate culture and heritage
- Recording oral histories from survivors and residents of Lahaina and Kula to capture their experiences and memories before the fire, the day of, and after the fire
- Possible feasibility study to designate Lahaina as a National Heritage Area
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