In 1835 construction began on a permanent stone structure. Completed in 1837, Mokuʻaikaua Church sits today much as it did almost 200 years ago. It remains an active church.
Mokuʻaikaua Church represents a combination of New England architecture, Big Island of Hawaii materials (lava rock and coral-based mortar) with cast off ballast from sailing ships built in as well. The church's 112-foot-high steeple is the tallest structure in Kailua. The church is 118 feet long and 46 feet wide.
It is said that the lava rock used in the construction of the church's walls came from a 15th century heiau (temple) that once stood at this location. Mortar consists of a combination of sand, crushed coral gathered from the nearby sea, and oils from kukui nuts used as a bonding agent.
