Hawaii is home to over 80 historical societies, preservation organizations, and heritage groups. From major institutions in Honolulu to island societies preserving local heritage, these organizations maintain vital connections to Hawaii's rich past.
Featured Historical Societies
Lahaina Restoration Foundation
Location: Lahaina, HI
Founded: 1962
Preserves and interprets old capital of Hawaiian Kingdom. Operates historic sites including Baldwin Home Museum and documents whaling era that shaped Maui's economy. The organization's collections and programs illuminate important aspects of Hawaii's heritage, including plantation era, Polynesian voyaging
Bishop Museum
Location: Honolulu, HI
Founded: 1889
Premier institution for Hawaiian and Pacific Island culture, history, and natural sciences. Founded by Charles Bishop to honor Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, last descendant of Kamehameha dynasty
Website: bishopmuseum.org
Hawaiian Historical Society
Location: Honolulu, HI
Founded: 1892
Preserves and promotes Hawaiian history through research library, publications, and educational programs
Website: hawaiianhistory.org
Iolani Palace
Location: Honolulu, HI
Founded: 1882
Only royal palace on American soil and official residence of Hawaiian Kingdom's last two monarchs. Restored to Victorian splendor interpreting Hawaiian monarchy 1882-1893. The organization's collections and programs illuminate important aspects of Hawaii's heritage, including Polynesian voyaging, plantation era
Website: iolanipalace.org
Kauai Museum
Location: Lihue, HI
Founded: 1960
Preserves Garden Island's unique history from Polynesian settlement through plantation era. Collections include Hawaiian artifacts, missionary materials, and natural history specimens
USS Arizona Memorial
Location: Honolulu, HI
Founded: 1962
Commemorates December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor and honors 1,177 sailors killed aboard USS Arizona. Managed with National Park Service as World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument
Website: nps.gov/valr
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Know of other Hawaii historical societies? Help us expand this directory by submitting organizations you're familiar with.
Submit a Society →Additional Hawaii History Resources
- Hawaiian Historical Society - Statewide history organization
- Hawaii State Historic Preservation Division - State historic preservation programs
- Hawaii State Archives - State archives in Honolulu