Lyman House Museum
Lyman House Museum in Hilo is one of Hawaii's most respected museums, blending cultural heritage, natural history, and missionary-era architecture. Built in 1839, the historic mission house is now home to engaging exhibits on Hawaiian geology, traditions, and global artifacts including Chinese antiquities.
Lyman House Museum, Big Island
The Lyman House Museum in Hilo features a collection of galleries showcasing Hawaiian culture, history and natural wonders in a historic mission house. The house was built in 1839 for missionaries David and Sarah Lyman, and today, almost a century later, is one of the most esteemed museums in Hawaii.
The two main galleries are the Earth Heritage Gallery, which showcases Hawaii's natural wonders, and the Island Heritage Gallery, where you'll find relics from all over the Big Island. Among the highlights in the Earth Heritage Gallery are mineral and shell collections, a 10-foot (3 m) tiger shark and remains of the only two flightless birds native to Hawaii – the flightless goose and the Hawaiian rail. The Island Heritage Gallery takes you back through time with samples of native clothing, fishing and hunting tools, and models of old Hawaiian huts.
Also, a popular stop is the Shipman Gallery of Chinese Art, named after the family whose civic works were instrumental in the development of East Hawaii. The gallery houses the family's private collection, which includes pieces dating back 3,000 years.
Key Features of Lyman House Museum
- Historic mission house: Built in 1839 for missionaries David and Sarah Lyman and preserved as a cultural landmark
- Earth Heritage Gallery: Features mineral displays, a preserved tiger shark, and extinct flightless bird specimens
- Island Heritage Gallery: Exhibits on Hawaiian life, including tools, clothing, and models of early Hawaiian dwellings
- Shipman Gallery of Chinese Art: Contains rare antiquities dating back 3,000 years from the Shipman family's collection
- Educational exhibits: Highlights Hawaii's geological evolution, flora and fauna, and cross-cultural influences
- Central location: Conveniently located in downtown Hilo, near other historic and cultural landmarks
|
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of the Lyman House?
The Lyman House was built in 1839 and is one of the oldest surviving missionary homes in Hawaii. It's now a museum preserving Hawaiian culture and natural history.
What exhibits are on display at the museum?
The museum showcases natural history exhibits like a preserved tiger shark and native birds, as well as Hawaiian cultural artifacts, clothing, tools, and Chinese art.
How long should I plan to spend at the Lyman House Museum?
Most visitors spend 1–2 hours exploring the exhibits, galleries, and historic house.
Where is it located?
The museum is located at 276 Haili Street in Hilo, Hawaii (96720), near downtown and other cultural attractions.