Mo'oheau Park and Bandstand

Mo'oheau Park was established in the early 1900's as a place for community gatherings and youth activities, and the first bandstand was dedicated near the current site in 1905. The land and the original bandstand were said to have been donated by Admiral George C. Beckley, a descendant of Hawaiian royalty associated with the Wilder Steamship Company. The name Mo'oheau was used by male descendants of the Hilo chief Ho'olulu, who helped hide the bones of Kamehameha the Great after his death in 1819, and Admiral Beckley and his son were known to use the name. The current bandstand was destroyed several times by tsunami activity and rebuilt each time with similar roof and floor plans. Earlier designs were two story and included lady resting rooms and sport team facilities, or restrooms on the floor. Mo'oheau Bandstand became the traditional home of the Hawai'i County Band, which began in 1883, and it has hosted countless public events, music concerts, and celebrations. Since the 1950's, the site has also been a traditional statewide location for political gatherings and Democratic election eve rallies.

Hilo, Hawaii · United States