If you’re one of the billion or so people who use Google.com, you no doubt spotted the tribute to Duke Kahanamoku on what would have been his 125th birthday.
Though many have forgotten him, Kahanamoku was one of the most accomplished athletes in American history, an Olympic gold medalist and world-record holder in swimming. He was also a surfer, movie actor and politician.
Here’s his New York Times obituary from Jan. 23, 1968, which dubs him “Hawaii’s best-known citizen.”
Duke Kahanamoku Dies at 77: Leading Swimmer of His Time
Duke Kahanamoku, the Olympic swimming star, whose international sports career spanned 20 years and who became Hawaii’s best-known citizen, died today at Kaiser Foundation Hospital.