Washington Place – Honolulu, Hawaii

When I was in the historic area, I looked for ornate architecture surrounded by fences, or giant statues as a sign of significant buildings. With a very un-Hawaiian name, Washington Place attracted my attention for a different reason. The ceremonial entrance flags and the crisp well-maintained mansion are not nearly as fancy and grand — but attractive and well-proportioned.

This greek revival palace was started in 1841 by the American sea Captain, John Dominis. It is best known as the home of Queen Lili’uokalani, who arrived in 1862. You can read the short history here.

In 1921, it became the Executive Mansion for the Territorial Governor of Hawaii. It remained the governor’s residence until 2008. When a new building was constructed behind the house.

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