“What could be so special about a church?” you might ask yourself. Well, let me tell you about Central Union Church. It is more than just a building. Central Union Church is a living testament to Honolulu’s rich history and its deep connection to New England’s traditions.
Central Union Church’s story starts in 1833. It began with the Seamen’s Bethel near the Honolulu waterfront. This chapel served the spiritual needs of sailors. These sailors came to Hawaii on whaling and trading ships. English-speaking townspeople joined them for worship. This was because Hawaiian was spoken in the Missionary churches.
By 1837, the church was formally organized as Oahu Bethel. Later, in 1852, it became Bethel Union. A second church, Fort Street Church, was established. In 1886, a fire destroyed Bethel Union Church. The congregation then joined Fort Street Church. In 1887, they officially merged creating Central Union Church.
In 1892, Central Union Church built a stone church. It was located at Beretania and Richards Streets near Queen Lili’uokalani’s residence. However, noise and ventilation became issues. So, the church moved to its current location at Beretania and Punahou Streets.
In 1920, Dr. Albert Palmer chose an 8.3-acre site. This land was once “Woodlawn”. It was the home and dairy farm of B.F. Dillingham. Emma Louise Dillingham, his widow, sold the land. She had been a member since the Bethel Union days.
The sanctuary was completed in 1924. It reflected a traditional New England style. Soon, Central Union Church became known as the “Church in the Garden”. This name came from its beautiful grounds.
Central Union Church also has strong ties to New England. Many members were descendants of early missionaries. The church wanted to honor their heritage. While architect Cram preferred Gothic Revival style, the congregation wanted to evoke New England memories.
The lava rock used to build Central Union Church came from Moiliili. This is where the University of Hawaii’s lower campus is now. Inside, the columns feature pineapple and palm leaves instead of acanthus. French doors and windows fill the space with light and air.
The origins of Central Union Church go back to 1832. Oahu Bethel Church offered the first English Christian services in the Islands. It served seamen and foreign residents. In 1853, Honolulu residents formed the Second Foreign Church. This became Fort Street Church in 1856. After the 1886 Chinatown fire, the two churches united. They built Central Union Church at Beretania and Richards streets.
By 1888, Central Union Church’s growing membership caused overcrowding. The lot was too small for a new stone building. So, they arranged for churchgoers to hitch their horses at Punahou School. The cornerstone was laid in 1891.
Increased traffic and congestion led to another move. Members even flew over Honolulu to find the perfect site. In 1920, they chose the Dillingham estate. The Dillinghams had been members of Bethel Union.
To design the new building, they hired Cram and Ferguson from Boston. Stone from the old church was used in the new foundation. “Open Air Services” were held on the new grounds in 1922. By 1924, the new Central Union Church was complete.
As you stand here today, remember the journey of Central Union Church. From its humble beginnings with the Seamen’s Bethel to its current serene setting, Central Union Church represents a blend of history, faith, and community. It stands as a symbol of Honolulu’s past and a beacon for its future.