LIHU‘E — The Koke‘e Natural History Museum first opened its doors on Nov. 28, 1953, by the Kaua‘i Historical Society (KHS).
The following year, the KHS turned over the Koke‘e Museum to the newly formed Hui o Laka, a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization whose founders — Joseph “Koke‘e Joe” Souza Jr., Ruth Hanner and Isabel Faye — had a vision of creating a museum of natural history for Koke‘e.
Hui O Laka was formed in 1954 to operate the then-fledgling Koke‘e Natural History Museum.
Following decades of helping people, the Koke‘e Natural History Museum celebrates 70 years by inviting people to visit and “remember its history” on Nov. 25 and 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
During the two-day celebration, people displaying the Hui O Laka membership card will receive an additional 5 percent discount on purchases made at the museum’s gift shop. Hui O Laka members usually receive a 10 percent discount.
For people wishing to become a member, registration is available at the www.kokee.org website by clicking the “Get Involved” tab.
Beyond the usual 10 percent — an additional 5 percent during Nov. 25 and 26, Hui O Laka members will receive a discount on stays at the neighboring CCC Camp.
Hui O Laka members also receive a member’s newsletter and discounted pricing for workshops and on other activities sponsored by Hui o Laka. Members also receive an invitation to the Hui O Laka annual membership meeting.
“Our little museum gift shop offers an extensive selection of Hawaiian books, fine local art, gifts and exhibits that tell the stories of natural and cultural history that include use of the forest, development of the irrigation system and the recreational trail system,” the museum said.
“We are open 365 days a year, and our main source of income is donations at the door, memberships, grants and souvenir sales.”
Souza, according to the Hui O Laka history, engineered the relocation and rebuilding of two World War II era buildings to the north edge of Kanaloahuluhulu Meadow where they are now known as the Koke‘e Lodge and Koke‘e Natural History Museum.
Hanner and Faye recruited the help of the Kaua‘i Historical Society to create the first exhibits in the museum before the doors opened in 1953.
For more information call 808-335-9975.
