New virtual exhibit celebrates plantation era centennial

September 2022 - On September 30, 2022, Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center (Lāna‘i CHC) launched its first-ever virtual exhibit as part of the centennial celebration of plantation life. This milestone marks 100 years since pineapple pioneer James Dole purchased the island in 1922.

The “Beyond the Labor: Plantation Life on Lāna‘i” exhibit is accessible through the Virtual Exhibits tab or via the link above. Lāna‘i CHC Executive Director Shelly Preza, who has deep family roots on the island, explains, “There was so much more to our plantation history than just work. Plantation people built the foundation of our community and shared a strong sense of responsibility to each other and to this place.” After studying at Kamehameha Schools and Harvard University, Shelly returned to Lāna‘i to give back. She says, “This exhibit highlights their vibrant lives and honors their legacy.”

A Unique Look at Plantation Life

The web exhibit shares rare photographs and audio recordings of first-hand accounts that have never been publicly available before. These materials come from Lāna‘i family collections connected to the plantation era. When James Dole purchased Lāna‘i for $1.1 million, pineapple production transformed the island’s economy for the next 70 years.

This new industry attracted immigrant families from Japan, the Philippines, Korea, China, Puerto Rico, and other places. Their cultures combined to shape the vibrant Lāna‘i community that exists today.

Celebrating Culture and Community

Lāna‘i CHC offers a fresh perspective that goes beyond economics and labor. The exhibit presents daily life as civic-minded, culturally rich, and joyful. Many immigrants found hope and community on the island during those decades. Popular clubs, like the Sea Scouts and Boys and Girls Scouts, helped foster belonging.

Sports such as tennis, little league, archery, and bowling brought people together. Bon dances and hula performances enriched the social scene. Islanders also lived closely with nature through fishing, diving, and hunting—activities that shaped their identity.

The online exhibit allows thousands of former residents to reconnect with the island’s history, despite Lāna‘i’s current small population of around 3,000.

Preserving History for Future Generations

Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center aims to expand its archives and invites the community to contribute historic or family photographs. This exhibit is part of ongoing efforts to digitize and protect Lāna‘i’s heritage.

The exhibit receives support from the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority’s Community Enrichment program.