Historic Monuments in Laie, Hawaii (2005-06)

Laie, Hawaii

The Lanihuli House

The Mormon Historic Sites Foundation has worked with Hawaii Reserves, Inc., the Mormon Pacific Historical Society, and the Laie Community Association to commemorate several buildings of significance in the early history of the Church in Hawaii. MHSF was involved in preparing two markers which were dedicated on July 28, 2006 commemorating the Lanihuli Home and the Social Hall.

The Lanihuli Home was built in 1893 and served as a visual symbol of the Latter-day Saints in Hawaii. It also served as the mission home for the Hawaiian mission until 1919. It was used as a women's dormitory until it was torn down in 1958 to make room for the expansion of the Church College of Hawaii (now BYU-Hawaii).

The Laie Social Hall was dedicated as a gathering place for the Latter-day Saints on September 30, 1913. It was constructed to hold activities such as dances, plays, and movies. After the Laie Chapel was destroyed by fire, the Social Hall served as the chapel. It was also razed in 1958 with the expansion of the Church College.

Last year, MHSF was involved in a commemorative project where two markers were dedicated as well. First, the LDS Hawaii Mission School was the location where David O. McKay had an experience which led to the establishment of what is now Brigham Young University - Hawaii. It was constructed in about 1915 and the operation of the school was transferred to the Territory of Hawaii in 1927. Second, the Laie Plantation Store was also recognized. The Laie Plantation Store served the Laie community between it's establishment in 1913 and 1986. The plantation railroad ran along the west side of the store until 1946 when the railroad was discontinued. With the establishment of the Church College of Hawaii in 1955, Charles K.C. Goo was invited to manage the store. The monuments were dedicated on October 20, 2005 in connection with BYU-Hawaii's Golden Jubliee Celebration.