The History of the Hawaiian Railway Society
The Hawaiian Railway Society was formed in 1970 to save what remained of Hawaii's railroad history. This educational, non-profit organization was able to get the remaining stretch of track on Oahu (from Ewa to Nanakuli) placed on the State and National Registers of Historic Sites. Today, the Society has restored about 6.5 miles of track and is working to restore more. Three vintage diesel locomotives have been restored to operation and several steam locomotives have been cosmetically restored. The famous Dillingham parlor car has been restored and is occasionally put on track.
Hawaiian Railway, the operating arm of the Hawaiian Railway Society, has the only active railroad on Oahu. We offer two regularly scheduled rides each Sunday. Monday through Friday, we offer rides to charter groups.
Hawaii has a rich history of railroading. Seven public common carrier railroads ran on four of the islands. At one time or another, 47 sugar plantations had private railway systems, each with from one to nine locomotives. The Military also had its own rail system. Trains ran on all the islands except Niihau and Kahoolawe. Railroading in Hawaii was not like railroading anywhere else in the world. For example, early railroad crossing signs were written in Hawaiian. They read: Akahele I Ke Ka`aahi which means "Lookout for the firecar!"
Akahele I Ke Ka'aahi
"Lookout for the firecar!"
The History of the Hawaiian Railway Society
Rides and Fares
Photos of Operational and Static Displays
How to find us!
Join the group that SAVES trains!!!
Visit the Gift Shop
© 2001 Hawaiian Railway
2/16/04