-
Doug Askman (center, in blue) at Aloha Tower with HPU students from his 'History of Hawai'i' course.
-
A current storytelling board that will be updated in the new project.
HPU is launching an exciting new educational initiative at Aloha Tower, aimed at refreshing the historical displays with updated content and personal stories. Starting this fall, HPU students in Professor Douglas Askman’s “History of Hawai‘i” course will lead the project, just in time for the 100th anniversary of Aloha Tower’s construction in 2026. This initiative will include a community-based effort, with residents and visitors encouraged to share their memories and experiences to ensure the displays reflect a wide range of voices and perspectives from throughout the years.
Doug Askman discussing the Aloha Tower storytelling project with students from his 'History of Hawai'i' course.
“Aloha Tower has stood as a witness to many pivotal moments in Hawai‘i’s history. This unique project gives us an opportunity to hear directly from the community and bring those personal stories to life. By sharing your memories, we can celebrate the legacy of Aloha Tower together, not just as a landmark, but as a living part of Hawai‘i’s rich heritage. I’m excited to see how these stories will connect us to the past and inspire future generations,” said Askman.
The new exhibits will offer an immersive experience, incorporating images, stories, and possibly sound and video to help visitors step back in time and feel what life was like at the Tower decades ago. What did Aloha Tower feel like during the bustling boat days? What was it like to arrive by ship and be greeted with leis and warm aloha? These rotating exhibits will creatively capture the energy and excitement of those moments, providing both historical information and a true sense of place for today’s visitors.
The displays will also showcase the building’s unique architecture and its role as a beacon for vessels arriving at Honolulu Harbor. Completed in 1926 at Pier 9, Aloha Tower stood as Hawai‘i’s tallest structure at 184 feet, welcoming travelers from around the world.
During World War II, the Tower took on a new role when the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941 led to it being placed under military control. Public access was restricted, and the once-bright white structure was painted in camouflage to protect it. The U.S. Navy used Aloha Tower as a control center for Pacific convoys, and it remained under guard throughout the war. It wasn’t until 1947 that civilian control was restored, and the tower returned to its iconic look.
Now, as HPU students work to bring fresh perspectives to Aloha Tower’s rich history, we’re calling on you for help. If you or someone you know has stories, photos, or videos of Aloha Tower or the marketplace, HPU would love to hear from you!
Share your Aloha Tower memories by sending a direct message to HPU on Instagram or Facebook (@hawaiipacificu) or emailing Askman at daskman@hpu.edu. All submissions will be reviewed and considered for inclusion in the updated displays. This project will continue into 2026, celebrating the vibrant history of Aloha Tower and honoring its place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
All photos by Michael Matsushita.
