Maui senior citizens get a lesson in history

On April 23, a group from Kaunoa Senior Services gathered with their tour leaders from Lahaina Restoration Foundation’s Community Education Committee at Hale Pa‘ahao (Old Lahaina Prison) during their “History With Our Kupuna” tour.
LAHAINA – Lahaina Restoration Foundation recently provided Maui senior citizens a free tour of Lahaina’s rich history through its program called “History With Our Kupuna.”
In partnership with Kaunoa Senior Services, this third-year program was coordinated by LRF’s Community Education Committee chaired by Andy Kutsunai.
Seniors traveled through 15 of Lahaina’s historic sites and museums, mostly on foot led by both Kutsunai and fellow Board Member Karee Carlucci, and escorted by Kaunoa Senior Services Program Assistant Leslie Hiraga.
At Kamehameha Iki Park and Malu-ulu-o-lele Park, representatives from Hui O Wa’a Kaulua (Timmy Gilliom) and the Friends of Moku’ula (Kalapana Kollers) shared their knowledge and discussed current projects of restoration.
Other stops included the Waiola Churchyard, Lahaina Hongwanji Mission, Hale Pa’ahao (Old Prison), various Lahaina harbor front sites, Baldwin Home Museum, Plantation Life Museum at The Wharf Cinema Center and the Pioneer Mill site at the restored smokestack.

Lahaina Restoration Foundation held the first annual Chinese Kite Festival on May 3-5 at the Wo Hing Museum. Loretta Lau gave a musical Guzheng performance at the event.
Attendees expressed their appreciation of the history shared.
One senior noted, “The program was well-planned and executed. I’m so grateful to the volunteers who gave their time to make this a worthwhile excursion for us.”
Another added, “The tour far exceeded my expectations. Lots of great info in a short time.”
Many said they are anxious to share the information with their family and friends.
The foundation’s Community Education Committee thanked everyone who attended, as well as partners and organizations for their assistance in making the tour possible.
Transportation, refreshments and lunch were provided by Kaunoa Senior Services, and all tour materials and visits were arranged through the foundation.
- Lahaina Restoration Foundation held the first annual Chinese Kite Festival on May 3-5 at the Wo Hing Museum. Loretta Lau gave a musical Guzheng performance at the event.