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Historic McCully House Damaged by Fire in Honolulu

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/2 .. c-mccully-house-damaged-by-fire-in-honolulu.html
  Published in House and Home on Sunday, January 25th 2026 at 2:57 GMT by Honolulu Star-Advertiser
      Locales: Hawaii, UNITED STATES

Honolulu, Hawai?i - A pall of smoke hung over Honolulu this morning as a fire damaged the beloved McCully House, a vital piece of the city's historical fabric. The Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) responded swiftly to the blaze, which erupted around 6:15 a.m., successfully preventing the fire from escalating and impacting nearby structures. While the physical damage is significant, the absence of injuries is a profound relief for the community.

The McCully House, a stately Victorian-era residence built in 1904, stands as a testament to Honolulu's rich architectural history. Designated as a historic landmark, it has long served as a visual anchor for the McCully neighborhood and a tangible link to the city's past. Its characteristic details - intricate woodwork, a wide veranda, and a sense of timeless elegance - are hallmarks of the period and contribute significantly to Honolulu's unique character.

"We received the call and dispatched multiple units to the location," explained HFD spokesperson Captain Keanu Silva. "The fire was contained within approximately 30 minutes. The building sustained damage, primarily to the roof and one side." The rapid response of the HFD undoubtedly minimized the extent of the devastation, though the damage is still considerable. Initial assessments suggest the roof structure and a substantial portion of one exterior wall suffered the brunt of the fire's impact. The cost of repairs is expected to be significant, and the long-term implications for the building's structural integrity remain to be seen.

Crucially, there were no occupants in the house at the time of the fire, and thankfully, no injuries were reported. This fortunate circumstance underscores the importance of early detection and swift emergency response. The investigation into the cause of the fire is already underway. HFD fire inspectors are meticulously examining the scene, gathering evidence, and interviewing witnesses to determine the origin and contributing factors to the blaze. While the investigation is ongoing, it's crucial to avoid speculation until a formal determination is made. Possible causes range from electrical malfunctions and faulty wiring to accidental ignition or, less likely, arson.

The community response has been one of sadness and concern. Residents like Emily Wong expressed deep disappointment at witnessing the damage to such a cherished landmark. "It's heartbreaking to see a piece of our history damaged like this," Wong stated, echoing the sentiments of many in the McCully neighborhood and beyond. There's a strong desire within the community to see the McCully House restored to its former glory, a process that will undoubtedly require significant resources and expertise.

The immediate future holds a period of assessment and planning. The McCully House is currently closed to the public, allowing for thorough damage evaluations by structural engineers and preservation specialists. These experts will assess the extent of the structural damage and develop a comprehensive restoration plan. Securing funding for the restoration will be a key challenge, likely requiring a combination of public and private support. Historic preservation often relies on grants, fundraising initiatives, and the generosity of community members who recognize the value of safeguarding cultural heritage.

The McCully House fire serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerability of historic structures and the importance of proactive fire prevention measures. It also highlights the resilience and deep connection the Honolulu community feels towards its historical landmarks. The focus now shifts to the challenging but vital task of ensuring the McCully House's survival and its eventual return as a vibrant symbol of Honolulu's past, present, and future.