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Lana‘i Culture & Heritage Center
PRESERVING & PROTECTING THE PAST
Aloha mai
Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center in Hawai‘i is a community that preserves and celebrates the island’s heritage and its ever-evolving culture. We share the historical narrative of pre-western contact to eras of ranching, plantation and tourism. Our goal is to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the island’s unique cultural landscape and history. Our vibrant collection of programs bring the community together to celebrate a thriving culture, educate youth and families, restore the land and preserve historic places.
Museum Open
Monday – Friday | 11 am – 3 pm
Museum Open | Monday – Friday | 11 am – 3 pm
A few ways we made an impact in 2024
Preserve the Past
Lāna’i’s rich history stretches back over a millennium, beginning with the arrival of Polynesian voyagers. For centuries, Native Hawaiians carefully stewarded the island, developing a unique culture and way of life. This era of indigenous management lasted until the late 18th century when Western contact initiated a period of profound transformation.
In the 1850s, ranching emerged as the first major Western economic endeavor on Lāna’i, persisting for about 100 years. The 70-year agricultural boom of pineapple reshaped not only the land but also the social fabric of the island, attracting workers from all over the world, creating a vibrant melting pot of cultures, and fundamentally altering the traditional way of life.
Empowering Culture
In transient times and outmigration of those raised on Lāna‘i, we champion education for students, and empower islanders and visitors to celebrate a story that continues to unfold. Beyond the museum, our mission embraces ‘āina-based curriculum and cultural workshops. Our events strengthen the bond between people and community, the past and the present. We offer stewardship opportunities that support harmony with the land. In the past 50 years of tourism and transition, we are an island of enduring identity – always bringing the past forward in our journey of sustainability and conservation.
Preserve the Past
Lāna’i’s rich history stretches back over a millennium, beginning with the arrival of Polynesian voyagers. For centuries, Native Hawaiians carefully stewarded the island, developing a unique culture and way of life. This era of indigenous management lasted until the late 18th century when Western contact initiated a period of profound transformation.
In the 1850s, ranching emerged as the first major Western economic endeavor on Lāna’i, persisting for about 100 years. The 70-year agricultural boom of pineapple reshaped not only the land but also the social fabric of the island, attracting workers from all over the world, creating a vibrant melting pot of cultures, and fundamentally altering the traditional way of life.
Empowering Culture
In transient times and outmigration of those raised on Lāna‘i, we champion education for students, and empower islanders and visitors to celebrate a story that continues to unfold. Beyond the museum, our mission embraces ‘āina-based curriculum and cultural workshops. Our events strengthen the bond between people and community, the past and the present. We offer stewardship opportunities that support harmony with the land. In the past 50 years of tourism and transition, we are an island of enduring identity – always bringing the past forward in our journey of sustainability and conservation.
Second Annual Lāna‘i Culture and Heritage Center Golf Tournament is presented by Foundations Hawaii. Seeking teams, sponsors and auction donors to champion our mission. Contact us to help. Sponsor our mission and participate in the tournament: $3,250 Nā‘ū Sponsor includes: 4 participants + hole signage and $2,250 Kauna‘oa Sponsor includes: 4 participants + entry signage.
Volunteer with Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center to work and preserve the historic Ka Lanakila Church at Keōmoku. The church was built in 1903 and was in regular use until 1951 when the last of the Keōmoku community moved to the uplands of Lāna‘i. Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center restored and stabilized the church between
News & Stories
In every moment, we create history, leave a legacy and share memories. Lāna‘i’s living culture is a collection of experiences that we share now and carry forward to the future.
Lānaʻi Culture & Heritage Center restores island Heiau
February 2025 – Lāna'i Culture & Heritage Center and volunteers restoring Hiʻi Agricultural Heiau.
Reflecting on 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025
January 2025 – Lāna'i Culture & Heritage Center expresses our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and enthusiasm for our mission.
Kānepu‘u Caregivers
August 2024 – Lāna‘i Culture and Heritage Center and nearly 90 community volunteers teamed together to protect Kānepu‘u Preserve.
News & Stories
In every moment, we create history, leave a legacy and share memories. Lāna‘i’s living culture is a collection of experiences that we share now and carry forward to the future.
Lānaʻi Culture & Heritage Center restores island Heiau
February 2025 – Lāna'i Culture & Heritage Center and volunteers restoring Hiʻi Agricultural Heiau.
Reflecting on 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025
January 2025 – Lāna'i Culture & Heritage Center expresses our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and enthusiasm for our mission.
Kānepu‘u Caregivers
August 2024 – Lāna‘i Culture and Heritage Center and nearly 90 community volunteers teamed together to protect Kānepu‘u Preserve.