On January 25, a plaque commemorating 106 years of the 4-H youth development program in Hawaiʻi will be dedicated on Maui near the site of the state’s first 4-H club. All are welcome to this dedication event, which will celebrate Hawaiʻi 4-H, honor the program’s rich legacy, and connect with the roots of our community’s agricultural heritage. Past participants and their families are encouraged to share their Hawaiʻi 4-H stories.
In 1918, visionary agriculturist and diversified farming advocate Frederick Krauss founded Hawaiʻi’s first 4-H club, the Boys’ Swine Club, which welcomed 31 young members from Maui near Haʻikū at the New Era Homestead. Krauss, who devoted decades to agricultural leadership in the state, helped shape CTAHR’s trajectory. As Hawaiʻi’s land-grant college, CTAHR administers the Hawaiʻi 4-H program, working in collaboration with community partners and volunteers.
The plaque dedication ceremony will take place:
This event will celebrate the achievements of early 4-H members while welcoming new generations to carry forward the spirit of service, learning, and leadership.
Hawaiʻi 4-H is seeking stories from alumni, families, and anyone connected to its history. These reflections will be shared to commemorate the heritage of 4-H in Hawaiʻi and honor the contributions of its early members. Individuals are encouraged to submit their stories to Hawaiʻi State 4-H Coordinator, Jeff Goodwin, at jeffg3@hawaii.edu or by calling (808) 956-4106.