Anna Ranch Heritage Center in Waimea preserves the ranch and home of Anna Lindsey Perry-Fiske, known as Hawaii’s First Lady of Ranching. Walk the gardens and grounds, where signs explain Hawaiian history and ranching, with green hills rising around the property. The restored ranch house displays Anna’s furniture, gowns and riding costumes on guided tours booked in advance. You can also learn about paniolo life and the ranch’s family history, or plan around an event featuring Hawaiian food, music and hula.
Anna Lindsey Perry-Fiske and the ranch
Anna Lindsey Perry-Fiske became one of Hawaii’s leading ranchers and was known as the First Lady of Ranching. The property traces its history to the 19th century and remained in the same family for five generations. Anna managed the ranch from 1939 until her death in 1995.
She introduced new cattle breeds and ranching methods. Her life also connected the working ranch to paniolo culture, including the tradition of pā‘ū riding. The center preserves this part of Waimea’s history as a museum and community gathering place.
The restored ranch house
The ranch compound has been restored, including the historic house associated with Anna. A guided tour takes you inside to see furniture, gowns, riding costumes and other personal belongings. Tours are by appointment, so arrange one before travelling to the property.
The grounds can also be explored on a self-guided walk. Interpretive signs explain Hawaiian history and culture, while the gardens and surrounding green hills give the site its rural setting.
Ranch work and demonstrations
The heritage center preserves more than the family home. The property includes a blacksmith shop and barn, and a blacksmith and saddlemaker have been described as working on site. A visit can offer a look at the crafts tied to ranch life, alongside the history of cattle ranching on Hawaiʻi Island.
Waimea’s ranching story reaches back to the era of King Kamehameha I. Anna Ranch provides a place to learn about that history through the family property and its displays.
Events at the heritage center
The center also hosts occasions and cultural events. Some evenings include Hawaiian food, song and hula, bringing performance and gathering into the ranch setting. Weddings and other events are held on the grounds as well.
Check the center’s website for current tour arrangements and events before visiting. The property is at 65-1480 Kawaihae Road in Waimea.
Häufige Fragen
Do I need to book a tour of the ranch house?
Yes. Guided tours of the historic house are by appointment, so book in advance.
Can I visit the grounds without a guided tour?
Yes. You can walk the grounds and gardens on a self-guided visit and read the interpretive signs.
What can you see inside the ranch house?
The house displays Anna Lindsey Perry-Fiske’s furniture, gowns, riding costumes and other memorabilia.
When is Anna Ranch Heritage Center open?
The listed opening days are Tuesday and Thursday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Check the center’s website before your visit.
