Did Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani ever imagine her grand palace would become a school? Here at Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani Middle School, echoes of royalty intertwine with the energy of learning. The school stands on the very ground where Keoua Hale, the princess’s magnificent palace, once stood. This site is steeped in history, dating back to 1883. Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani, a descendant of King Kamehameha I, commissioned this Victorian-style mansion. It was said to be even grander than Iolani Palace. Sadly, she never resided here. Illness struck after the housewarming luau, and she passed away shortly after in May 1883. The palace then passed to Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, who also passed away within its walls a year later. The legacy of royalty didn’t end there. In 1908, the building transformed into Central Grammar School. The current structure of Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani Middle School was built in 1926. The school transitioned to a junior high in 1928, an intermediate school in 1932, and finally a middle school in 1997. It serves grades 6 through 8. The school’s history was further solidified in 1994 when the buildings were added to the Hawaii Register of Historic Places. Today, Princess Ruth Ke‘elikōlani Middle School honors its namesake. Every year on February 9th, the school celebrates her birthday, remembering the woman whose generosity provided the land for this place of learning. Students here walk the same halls where royalty once walked, a connection that imbues their education with a unique sense of history and place.
Building 90
Built in 1913 Building 90 stands proudly. It’s a testament to the past. This three-story concrete structure initially served a