Take a trip back in time at Hawaiian Mission Houses

If you and your family have never visited Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives, or if it’s been a while since you’ve been there, the Family Day Open House Saturday would be the perfect time — it’s one of only two days a year the site offers free admission.

“The major highlights of our open house event are the free tours and family activities based on common activities for people in the 19th century,” said Mike Smola, event organizer and curator of public programs at Hawaiian Mission Houses. “Included in this are demonstrations of the replica of the first printing press in Hawaii and a chance to weave lau hala with the Ulana Me Ka Lokomaika‘i weaving guild.”

There will also be an 11 a.m. history theater presentation featuring Kevin Keaveney as the Rev. William Richards who was known for his efforts to gain international recognition for the independence and sovereignty of the Hawaiian Kingdom.

At 12:30 p.m., Uncle Wayne and the Howling Dog Band performs children’s music.

The event “is a chance to experience 19th-century Hawaii in a way you never have before, while also learning about the ways that the missionaries and alii cooperated and navigated their relationship in the early- to mid-1800s,” Smola said.