Albert Spencer Wilcox Building facts for kids
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Albert Spencer Wilcox Building
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Kauaʻi Museum
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 Location in Hawaii
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| Location | 4428 Rice Street Līhuʻe, [[Kauaʻi|Kauaʻi]], Hawaii |
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| Area | 0.5 acres (0.20 ha) |
| Built | 1924 |
| Architect | Hart Wood |
| NRHP reference No. | 79000760 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | May 31, 1979 |
The Albert Spencer Wilcox Building is a special old building in Līhuʻe, on the island of [[Kauaʻi|Kauaʻi]], Hawaii. It first opened in 1924 as a library, a place where people could borrow books. Later, this building became the Kauaʻi Museum. The museum shares the history and culture of Kauaʻi island. In 1979, it was added to both the Hawaiʻi Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places. These lists recognize important historical sites.
Contents
The Building's History as a Library
The very first library on Kauaʻi island likely started in 1900. It was set up by Reverend John Mortimer Lydgate at his church in Līhuʻe. After moving to a temporary spot in 1921, a permanent home for the library was needed.
Funding the New Library
On February 3, 1922, a generous offer was made. Emma Kauikeolani Wilcox, who was the wife of a well-known businessman and politician named Albert Spencer Wilcox (1844–1919), offered US$75,000. This money was for building a public library on Kauaʻi.
Designing and Opening the Library
In October 1922, an architect named Hart Wood was chosen to design the new building. It was named in honor of Albert Spencer Wilcox. John Hansen was the main builder. The building was finished and opened in 1924. It became the first public library on the island of Kauaʻi.
The Building's History as a Museum
In April 1954, a group of people started raising money for a museum. They wanted to build it right next to the library. Juliet Rice Wichman led this group. She was the granddaughter of another important businessman and politician, William Hyde Rice.
Opening the Kauaʻi Museum
A new building for the museum was designed by architect Kenneth Roehrig. This new building was named for William Hyde Rice. Juliet Rice Wichman became the museum's first director. She also helped start the National Tropical Botanical Garden.
On December 3, 1960, the museum opened its doors to the public in the Rice building. Later, in 1969, the state of Hawaii built a brand new library building. This meant the original Wilcox building was no longer needed as a library.
Expanding the Museum Exhibits
Because the Wilcox building was now empty, it was decided to use it for more museum exhibits. The Kauaʻi Museum expanded into the Wilcox building, opening this new section in December 1970.
Protecting the Historic Building
The Wilcox building is important because of its history. It was officially listed on the Hawaiʻi Register of Historic Places on February 17, 1979. This means it's recognized as a special historical site in Hawaii.
It was also added to the National Register of Historic Places listings in Hawaii on May 31, 1979. This is a national list of places important to American history. The building is located at 4428 Rice Street in Līhuʻe.
See also
- Albert Spencer Wilcox Beach House, Hanalei, Hawaii, also NRHP-listed
Images for kids
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Kauaʻi Museum, 4428 Rice Street, Lihue, Hawaii
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The gift shop in the Kauaʻi Museum
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Kauaʻi Museum in the Albert Spencer Wilcox Building
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Captain James Cook Lands at Waimea Bay, Kauaʻi on January 20, 1778, an exhibit at the Kauaʻi Museum
