Hawaiian Mission Houses

The Hawaiian Mission Houses are the oldest standing western structures in Hawaii. Built between 1821 and 1841, the timbers for the first house were cut and fitted in Boston. The initial house introduced New England style architecture to Hawaii. Originally utilized as housing for the missionaries, the buildings exist today as living house museums open to the public.

The Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives includes three restored houses, two of which are the oldest houses in Hawaii, and a research archives which provides a unique glimpse into 19th-century Hawai`i both onsite and online. The extensive education programs expand the site’s relevance and positive impact on the community, and the visitor experience is further enhanced by an orientation center and a gift shop. The site was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1965 and is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums since 1972 with re-accreditation earned in 2010. HMH is the business name of the Hawaiian Mission Children’s Society, a not-for-profit organization and genealogical society founded in 1852, and was formerly known as Mission Houses Museum.

The Hawaiian Mission Houses is located at 553 South King Street in downtown Honolulu. They are located directly across the street from Honolulu Hale and nearby Iolani Palace.