Kailua Way Back When… The Lani-Kailua Outdoor Circle

It has been a while since we gave an update and I realize I never posted an announcement for the latest booklet about Kailua History. Itʻs a very interesting read! This booklet shares a wealth of photos and history regarding one of Kailua’s secret treasures: the Lani-Kailua Outdoor Circle, unsung heroes of our city’s gorgeous trees.  The volunteer work we all take for granted is the focus of this booklet which has a wealth of information about the way our parks, medians, and schools have been beautified by a dedicated group of volunteers since 1948. Lovingly compiled from the archives and scrapbooks of the LKOC by Diane Harding, it includes many many photos of familiar places that used to look very different that they do now! The booklet was published in December of 2021. Since then, a limited number have been given to Bookends in Kailua for sale, or you may contact us by email to request a booklet. The LKOC also sells copies.

Online Shopping

Another very exciting development is that you may now purchase the Kailua Book directly from UH Press online. This speeds and simplifies the ordering process, and the society is still able to benefit from the sales. The link is on the publications page. The URL is  https://uhpress.hawaii.edu/title/kailua-in-the-wisps-of-the-malanai-breeze/

We want to highlight a new piece of content on our site. One of our booklets, “Kailua Way Back When… Florenceʻs Restaurant was the place to go” has gone out of print, but we have digitized it for the general public. Please feel free to download, print, and share, but do not resale commercially please. This information is intended to be freely shared with the public.

Here is a preview. You may download it using the down arrow icon on the righthand side or the download link underneath the preview window. Enjoy!

Images from 1946: Overhead and Offshore

Return to 1946 and sail amongst our beautiful islands with the Powlison Family and friends aboard the Mokuola. Come watch a 16 mm color film taken by Ted Bredesen (navy photographer who married Puna Peggy 40 years later). It also includes an eruption on the flanks fo Mauna Loa, old-time Waikiki surfing, and area scenery of Kailua, Lanikai, and other islands. Generously shared with the community by Cosette Harms and son Jerrett Harms.

In 1946, Kailua’s population was under 5,000. The biggest store was Harada’s (at Ku’ulei and Kailua). Two churches existed—St. Anthony’s and the “Little White Church” (where Salvation Army is now located). Campos Dairy leased many acres in today’s business district and the surrounding areas. Several dozen homes were standing in and near Lanikai, including the Freeman’s, Tanaka’s, Hedemann’s, and Powlison’s. Mid-Pacific Golf Course, a popular attraction was 17 years old. The Kailua Race Track still existed, as did watermelon farms throughout the Coconut Grove area. Sullivan’s first store, today’s Foodland, would soon be built across from Kalapawai Market (near Kailua Beach), as would Kailua’s first post office nearby.

Everyone is welcome to join us for this free amazing movie and program about 1946 Kailua.

July 29, 2018
3:00 – 4:30 pm

A. & B. Community Room, Suite 202
146 Hekili St., Kailua