Many Upcountry kupuna still remember the days when Makawao was a real cow town, with paniolo riding through on horseback.
At the Makawao History Museum located in the heart of Makawao town on Baldwin Avenue, displays of authentic Hawaiian-style saddles, spurs, boots, lariats and branding irons help tell the story of the island’s ranching history, while early cook stoves, telephones, ice boxes and other artifacts help youngsters imagine what Maui life was like before electricity, cars, and tourists.
Admission to this community-run museum is free. For $2, you can buy a map for a walking tour of Makawao’s historic sites and buildings.