That House - Diamond Head Lighthouse

Article by Elaine Terry, Photos by David Croxford

Issue Date: January 2008

Built in 1899, the Diamond Head Lighthouse stands tall as an architectural heirloom from Hawaii’s past, a symbol of Hawaii’s dependence on ocean voyage, then and now. The U.S. Coast Guard uses the former lighthouse keeper’s dwelling as the living quarters for Rear Adm. Sally Brice-O’Hara, commander of the 14th District.
It’s a great property for entertaining, she says. “I think people are surprised once they come on the property to see how much space we do have between the keeper’s cottage and the lighthouse. It’s on that lawn area where we do most of our entertaining.”

Her husband, Bob O’Hara, enjoys climbing up the lighthouse and reading, or enjoying an after-dinner drink. “It’s wonderful,” the admiral says. “As you can imagine, the view is priceless. We really feel privileged to be the current occupants.”