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Hilo
History
In 1901, W.H. ("Willie") Shipman bought the mansion as a surprise for his beloved wife, Mary "Mele" Kahiwaaiali`i Johnson Shipman, who wanted it so badly she could hardly stand it. He did not tell her about it for a month. He paid $13,000. The seller made a profit.
Mary's grandmother was a Hawaiian chiefess, and her grandfather, John Davis, was one
of the first white men to stay in Hawai`i. Willie, a cattle rancher, had
missionary parents, bound for Micronesia, but detained in Hawaii just before Willie's birth. There were no doctors in Micronesia. Willie (W. H. Shipman) spoke fluent Hawaiian from childhood.
Mary, known for her gracious hospitality, counted among her guests her friend, Hawai`i's last queen, Lili`uokalani, and author Jack London, who stayed for a month with his wife Charmian. As quoted by his wife, Jack London said, "To me, Mother Shipman is the First Lady of Hawaii."
Liliuokalani would enjoy a poi luncheon here, then play the Steinway concert grand piano as she enjoyed a cigar. A book of her compositions is available at the piano.
Shipman House Bed & Breakfast Inn
131 Kaiulani Street
Hilo, Hawai`i 96720
Phone/fax (808) 934-8002
Reservations (800) 627-8447
http://www.hilo-hawaii.com
