Colin died in 1992. In 2005, Maui Land & Pineapple’s managers decided to divest the company of real estate unrelated to the core business, and entered into an agreement to sell Kaluanui to a couple from Texas. The Hui’s board and staff, horrified by the thought of losing the organization’s beloved home, launched a grass-roots capital campaign to “Save the Hui — Buy Kaluanui,” and raised sufficient funds to place an offer on the property. When the Texas couple learned how passionately the Maui community wanted to preserve the estate for Hui No‘eau, they graciously exited the purchase agreement, and The Hui became the proud owner of Kaluanui.
Nowadays, the public is welcome to explore the historic estate and imagine it as it was a hundred years ago, when Harry and Ethel first moved into their new home. The main house holds a gallery in what was once the Baldwins’ living room; here, The Hui displays up to eight community art exhibits each year. A history room occupies the former maid’s quarters, with memorable artifacts relating to Kaluanui and Upcountry Maui. Harry’s study is now a gallery shop, featuring works by local artists. Several of the estate’s outbuildings serve as open studios, where artists and students hone their craft, and welcome drop-in visitors. (The Hui conducts a variety of art classes for all ages, including some that are a single session.)
Visit, and you can take a guided or self-guided tour. Kaluanui is also available for weddings and other special events. The estate is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Find more information at HuiNoeau.com.
Laurel Murphy is a Maui author whose forthcoming book spans five generations of the Baldwin Family on Maui.
