Paschoal Hall

Paschoal Hall was the primary community center with movie nights, dances, and more.

NPS / Hannah Schwalbe

Quick Facts

Location:

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

Amenities

3 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Parking - Auto, Restroom

Kalaupapa's 350-seat social hall was the heart and soul of the community. Built around 1915, patients and the administration used the hall to host community events such as movies, dances, concerts, and political rallies. The hall would also host celebrity entertainers for decades. During events, strict rules segregated Hansen's patients from non-patients. These rules required non-patients to sit only in the upper balcony seats and to enter from separate entrances.

The building is typical of Hawaiian plantation-style architecture. It was remodeled in 1935-1936 to include the installation of walkways, curbs, and the improvements of the grounds. In 1958, it was named in honor of Manuel Gomes Paschoal, a territorial legislator who championed Kalaupapa's residents' rights, privileges, and welfare. Eventually, the building went through a major restoration project from 2008-2012.

The many celebrity entertainers that appeared in Paschoal Hall included Shirley Temple, John Wayne, Irving Berlin, the von Trapp Family Singers, and Hawai'i's own Don Ho. Paul Robeson, the world-renowned actor, singer, and advocate of racial equality, performed here in 1948. He noted that at Kalaupapa, he sang for "the most inspiring audience [he'd] ever had."

Visitors are welcome to explore the exhibits inside the building.