Aloha kakahiaka,

We’re back with more intriguing news to share. Here at Hānaiakamalama, demolition work continues at a steady pace. Work in the Edinburgh Room has exposed the exterior siding from the back wall of the original home. This back wall of the Palace was covered up in 1864 with the addition of the Edinburgh Room and hasn’t been seen in its entirety for 157 years! Because of this recent discovery, we’re left with a small keepsake – a foot long piece of muslin preserved within the walls of the home. During the initial construction of the Edinburgh Room, muslin was used to attach wallpaper directly to the siding with tacks. To remain historically accurate to the restoration period, we will replicate this practice as we continue restoring the home.

Additionally, work is also being done on the front steps, leading up to the entrance. As the demolition commenced, a State archeologist immediately halted the project with the unearthing of coral blocks hidden beneath the concrete of the lower steps and landing. These large slabs of coral, featured in the picture below, were a common building material of the time period as coral beds were prevalent throughout the islands. What could’ve been a troublesome wrench in the restoration has become an unforeseen blessing. These coral blocks will now be preserved and featured in the architecture of Hānaiakamalama! 

Stay tuned for more updates next week, as we continue the restoration process.