Title: Hawaii Trip 1/3 — 1959 Voyage to the Islands on the SS Matsonia
Reel ID: L018R008
FORMAT:
16mm motion picture film
FILM TYPE:
Color Kodak Kodachrome
SOUND:
Silent (no synchronized sound
Issues: Small hair on the right side of the frame during much of the reel, as seen in preview.
Description:
The first reel in this charming 1950s Hawaii travel trilogy captures the excitement of a long-anticipated island journey. Opening with a Christmas morning scene, a book gift reveals plans for a 1959 trip to Hawaii, setting the tone for a heartfelt family adventure from the mainland to paradise.
The film follows the voyage aboard the elegant SS Matsonia, departing San Francisco beneath the Golden Gate Bridge and crossing the Pacific toward Honolulu. Upon arrival, the traveler’s camera turns to the island’s iconic landmarks—Diamond Head, Waikiki’s sailboats, and the bustling International Market, alive with street merchants and local color.
Throughout the reel, Hawaii’s vibrant life and tropical beauty shine through: Hula dancers perform in vivid costume, visitors explore a pineapple plantation and hibiscus garden, and gentle ocean waves, beach views, and a glowing sunset behind coconut trees close the film on a perfect note of nostalgia.
A quintessential glimpse of mid-century island tourism, this reel captures Hawaii just as it entered statehood—full of optimism, wonder, and natural splendor.
Tags:
Hawaii, 1959, SS Matsonia, Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, Honolulu, Diamond Head, Waikiki, International Market, Hula dancers, Pineapple farm, Hibiscus garden, Street merchants, Sailboats, Ocean waves, Beach views, Sunset, Coconut trees, Christmas gift, Travel film, Vintage Hawaii, 1950s tourism, Carl Damaske Collection, Analog film, Mid-century travel, Pacific voyage
