In November 1853, the ship Lexington from Nantucket anchored at Lahaina on Maui to resupply and make repairs. The Lexington was one in a long series of New England vessels that found safe haven at this historic Pacific port and helped create lasting economic and cultural connections between America and Hawaii.
In recognition of these historic connections, the Nantucket Historical Association wishes to express its support for the people of Maui and offer condolences to those who have lost loved ones, livelihoods, and treasures in the wildfires at Lahaina. We recognize the profound impact this natural disaster is having on the community and stand in solidarity with those who have been displaced and those who are working tirelessly to aid the recovery.
The tragedy in Lahaina serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of our natural landscapes and our built heritage to the realities of the world’s climate emergency. It is imperative that we work together to safeguard our communities and build resilience in the face of these new challenges.
If you would like to support those impacted by these wildfires, consider donating to the Hawaii Community Foundation: https://www.hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/strengthening/maui-strong-fund
Image: receipt for the purchase and delivery of water to ship Lexington from P. Nahaolilua at Lahaina, Nov. 15, 1854.