Address
79 S. Nimitz Hwy, Honolulu, 96813
TMK
(1) 2-1-001:005
SHPD Historic Site Number
Not Yet Available
Historic Designations:
Hawai‘i Register of Historic Places
Abstract
The Matson Navigation Co. Building was constructed in 1952 by the Territorial Board of Harbor Commissioners established after Annexation. It is significant under Criterion A in the categories of Commerce and Maritime History for its association with the Matson Navigation Company and the Territorial Board of Harbor Commissioners. The Harbors Commission oversaw the development of Honolulu Harbor, Hawai’i’s main seaport, during the islands’ territorial era. Matson moved into the building at the brink of the jet age, entered the shipping business and nulled its passenger ships by the early 1960s. The building is also eligible under Criterion C as an excellent example of modern design and a distinctive International Style. Designed by Charles Wagner, elements of the style include its cantilevered canopy, smooth stucco walls, and expanses of ribbon windows.
This list of Hawaii’s historic properties is provided as a public service by Historic Hawaii Foundation. It is not the official list of properties designated on the Hawaii State Register of Historic Places. For official designations and determinations of eligibility, contact the State Historic Preservation Division of the Department of Land and Natural Resources of the State of Hawaii at 808-692-8015.