Donations ease financial
woes of Plantation Village

Increases in gifts and attendance
boost the confidence of officials

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By Rosemarie Bernardo
rbernardo@starbulletin.com

With more than $80,000 in donations and grants pouring into Hawaii Plantation Village, officials at the once financially troubled museum are certain that they can keep the Waipahu historic attraction open indefinitely.

"We're sure we will survive," said Executive Director Lynn Valiente.

The outdoor museum, built in 1992, is a complex of original plantation structures and replica homes. The museum aims to re-create the ambience of the multiracial laborers who worked on Hawaii's plantations from the late 1800s to the 1940s.

The village, at 94-695 Waipahu St., was in danger of shutting down in mid-July due to dwindling revenues and lack of visitors. But since the Star-Bulletin published a story and an editorial in June detailing the museum's plight, donations have flowed in.

Between June and October, residents and local organizations gave donations ranging from $20 to $6,000. Attendance also has increased by 30 percent, Valiente said.

"Everything is falling into place," said Moana Espinda, vice president of the village's heritage center.

A fund-raiser held at the Waikele Golf Course two months ago generated nearly $12,000, while a chicken sale raised about $4,000, Valiente said. The Hawaii Tourism Authority provided an $18,000 grant to help support upcoming events at the museum.

Also, the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts will award a grant of about $18,000.

Museum officials have been trying to boost its visitor count, Valiente said. They contacted representatives from Kintetsu International Hawaii Co. and Japan's biggest travel agency, JTB Corp., to draw more visitors.

Admission to the Hawaii Plantation Village is $7 for adults, $5 for kamaaina and military personnel, $4 for seniors and $3 for youth ages 5 to 12.

Museum officials also hope to generate more revenues by hosting wedding receptions and perhaps opening a coffee bar at the museum.

Board members are now focusing on a five-year plan that will include activities that will promote the museum as a cultural and educational destination.

A Web site for the plantation village has been recently created that includes the map of the village and a schedule of upcoming activities. Those interested can go to www.hawaiiplantationvillage.org.