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Duke Ran Gas Stations, then Served 13 Terms as Sheriff
Hawaii Business - Star Advertiser
Ninety-nine years ago, Duke Kahanamoku competed in his first Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden. He won the gold medal in the 100-meter freestyle swim and a silver medal with the relay team. He returned to the Olympics in 1920, 1924 and 1932, winning three gold and two silver medals.
But what did he do after the Olympics?
The head of Union Oil in Hawaii asked Duke whether he wanted a job. “I said heck yes, I’m not too proud to pump gas. I did it because it was something to do,” Kahanamoku said in 1965.
His service station career didn’t last long. Duke found his calling and ran for sheriff of the City and County of Honolulu in 1935.
He served 13 terms and then was appointed as the city’s official greeter and ambassador of good will after that.
Photo courtesy BISHOP MUSEUM
