Merchant Street in downtown Honolulu stands as a testament to Hawai‘i’s rich commercial and civic history. Officially recognized as the Merchant Street Commercial and Civic Historic District, this area offers a captivating glimpse into the islands’ past, tracing back to its early days as a vital economic and administrative hub. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Merchant Street’s story is now further clarified and expanded, solidifying its place as a landmark of significant historical and architectural value.
Originally designated in 1973, the recent amended nomination of the Merchant Street district brings to light a more detailed understanding of its contributing features and historical narrative. This revised recognition encompasses a deeper exploration of the district’s evolution, architectural characteristics, and the addition of two iconic structures: the Honolulu Star-Bulletin Building and the Alexander & Baldwin Building. Furthermore, the updated documentation highlights previously unacknowledged resources, such as the site of the original Honolulu Hale and several notable objects that contribute to the street’s historic ambiance. These include the granite and lava rock curbs and sidewalks that line the street, historic cannons, and even a remnant of a cast-iron storefront, each telling a silent story of bygone eras.
The renaming to “Merchant Street Commercial and Civic Historic District” emphasizes the area’s dual role in Honolulu’s development. It distinguishes this district as more than just a collection of old buildings; it represents the heart of early Honolulu’s commercial and civic life in the post-contact, pre-territorial, and Territorial periods of Hawai‘i. As one of Honolulu’s first formally established streets and a primary economic center, Merchant Street holds exceptional significance under Criterion A of historical importance. It rightfully earned the moniker ‘Honolulu’s Wall Street’, housing pivotal institutions such as the Honolulu Stock Exchange, major banks, insurance companies, and the offices of influential sugar factors and commission agents. Notably, four of the ‘Big Five’ companies, which significantly shaped Hawai‘i’s economy, maintained their headquarters within this district, underscoring Merchant Street’s central role in the islands’ economic power structure.
Beyond its commercial importance, Merchant Street is also celebrated under Criterion C for its remarkable collection of well-preserved historic commercial and municipal buildings. These structures, dating from the mid-19th to mid-20th centuries, represent a diverse range of architectural styles and showcase the evolving urban landscape of Honolulu. This concentration of intact historical buildings makes Merchant Street a valuable architectural showcase, reflecting different periods of Honolulu’s growth. In addition, the district’s significance under Criterion D acknowledges its potential as an archaeological site, hinting at buried historical resources that could further illuminate Honolulu’s past.
For those seeking to delve into the historical fabric of Honolulu, Merchant Street offers an enriching experience. It serves as a tangible link to the city’s formative years, inviting visitors and residents alike to explore the legacy of Hawai‘i’s commercial and civic development. While resources like the Historic Hawaii Foundation provide valuable public information, for official designations and detailed eligibility confirmations, it is recommended to contact the State Historic Preservation Division, reinforcing the district’s recognized and protected historical status.
