Founded in 2003, The H.M. Dowsett Foundation’s mission is to acquire, restore, preserve and display artifacts of Hawaii. The focus of our efforts so far have been with the Hawaiian canoe and calabash. We also seek ways to introduce canoe paddling to our youth.  The preservation of the Hawaiian canoe, their involvement of youth in the ocean were the passions of H.M. Dowsett.

• The Foundation receives artifacts through donations from individuals, corporations and other non-profits. On occasion the foundation has purchased distressed artifacts in need of restoration.
   
• The most recent acquisitions, in 2008, were 4 koa canoes from the Outrigger Enterprise Inc. / Outrigger Hotels.  These canoes were once owned by Spence and Cliff Weaver or the SpenceCliff Restaurants.  Three of the canoes will be restored and go on display at Outrigger Hotels.
   
• In 2005 we acquired the “Toots” canoe, owned by Molokai Hoe founder, Toots Minville. This canoe raced in the very first Molokai race in 1952.
   
• In December 2004 we acquired a Hawaiian canoe from the Brooklyn Museum of Arts & Sciences. It was donated to them in 1892 and was on display for several decades and eventually went into storage for nearly 50 years. It has now returned to Hawaii for restoration and eventual permanent display.