Mother Waldron Park
Interactive Park Map
About the Location
Historic Significance
Mother Waldron Park is a 3.4-acre urban park located in the Kakaako district of Honolulu, Hawaii. The park incorporates the extant lands of the original Mother Waldron Playground, which was constructed in 1937 and named after Margaret "Mother" Waldron, a beloved teacher and community figure in Kakaako.
The park is listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Hawaii State Register of Historic Places as an Art Deco Park. It features distinctive Art Deco and Art Moderne design elements, including a historic one-story comfort station designed by architect Harry Sims Bent.
Location and Accessibility
Mother Waldron Park serves as a vital recreational space in the densely populated Kakaako area. The park's central location, bordered by Coral Street, Halekauwila Street, and Cooke Street, makes it easily accessible to residents and workers in the community.
Evolution and Preservation
The park has undergone several changes since its inception, including boundary modifications in the 1990s due to urban redevelopment projects. Despite these alterations, it retains much of its historic integrity and continues to function as an important community gathering place and recreational facility.
Contemporary Character
In recent years, the park has become known for the colorful street art adorning nearby buildings, adding a contemporary artistic element to its historic character. The juxtaposition of modern murals with the park's Art Deco features creates a unique visual environment that reflects the evolving nature of the Kakaako neighborhood.
