Lyman House Museum

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.

Hours:
Monday through Saturday: 10 am to 4:30 pm
Mission House Tours: 11 am and 2 pm
Archives section is accessible only by appointment
Closed on: New Year's Day, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Admission:
Adults: $10
Seniors: $8
Children (ages 6-17): $3
Family: $21
Kama'aina Adults: $8
Kama'aina Seniors: $6
Kama'aina Children (ages 6-17): $3
Kama'aina Family: $17
University Students: $5

Lyman House Museum Overview

Main building features New England-style architecture and was built in 1839, it is the oldest wood frame house on the island
House features furniture and household items from Rev. and Mrs. Lyman and other missionary families
Modern annex contains Hawaiian artifacts (Island Heritage Gallery) and a fine collection of rocks and minerals (Earth Heritage Gallery)