Mission Houses Museum is owned and governed by the Hawaiian Mission Children’s Society (HMCS), a private, non-profit organization and genealogical society founded in 1852 by the children of the American Protestant missionaries to Hawai'i. The Museum was established in 1920 to preserve three of the historic structures that served as the family homes and headquarters of the first Christian mission to Hawai'i. It is accredited by the American Association of Museums, and in 1965, the site was designated a Registered National Historic Landmark. The houses, built between 1821 and 1841 have now been restored as a museum and are furnished with original artifacts and period reproductions. Chamberlain House Galleries offers a dynamic changing exhibition program inspired by the Museum and Library’s permanent collections.
Exhibits
Organized in conjunction with the 11th Textile Society of America Biennial Symposium (September 24-27, 2008), Fundamental Fiber: Lauhala, Tapa & Quilts will feature 19th and 20th century objects from the Museum’s permanent collections. Fiber arts traditions are well ingrained in Hawai'i’s ancient, modern and contemporary cultures. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to view rarely seen pieces from the permanent collections while providing a forum for local weavers and quilt makers to interact and share current techniques and trends. Fundamental Fiber: Lauhala, Tapa & Quilts Exhibition Dates: September 19, 2008 to January 3, 2009
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