History
Charles Kauha: The Forgotten Hawaiian Surfer of 1898
19
May
May
Charles Kauha: The Forgotten Hawaiian Surfer of 1898
Surfing isn’t just a sport in Hawaii—it’s a way of life, woven into the islands’ cultural fabric for centuries. While names like Duke Kahanamoku shine brightly in surfing lore, there are unsung heroes who helped shape the sport’s early days. One such figure is Charles Kauha, a Hawaiian surfer immortalized in the first known photograph of a surfer, taken in 1898 on Oahu. This post dives into Kauha’s story, the roots of Hawaiian surfing, and why his legacy still resonates with today’s wave riders.
Who Was Charles Kauha?
Charles Kauha may not have statues or surf contests named after him, but his image—captured by photographer Frank Davey in 1898—offers a rare glimpse into surfing’s past. The black-and-white photo shows Kauha riding a wave off Oahu, standing tall on a wooden alaia board, a traditional Hawaiian surfboard. Little is known about Kauha’s personal life, but his presence in this historic image speaks volumes about the everyday Hawaiians who kept surfing alive during a time of cultural upheaval.
In the late 19th century, Hawaii was undergoing massive change. The overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893 and annexation by the United States in 1898 threatened native traditions, including surfing. Yet, Kauha and others persisted, riding waves as an act of cultural defiance and joy. For modern audiences, Kauha’s story is a reminder that even the “ordinary” can leave an extraordinary mark.
The Significance of the 1898 Surf Photo
The photograph of Charles Kauha isn’t just a cool vintage snapshot—it’s a historical treasure. Taken by Frank Davey, it’s considered the earliest known image of a surfer in action. The photo captures Kauha mid-ride, his stance steady, embodying the skill and grace of ancient Hawaiian surfers. This image predates the global spread of surfing, offering proof that the sport was thriving in Hawaii long before it hit California or Australia.
For today’s surfers, this photo is a vibe. It’s raw, unfiltered, and free of commercial gloss—a pure moment of connection between man, board, and ocean. It’s the kind of authenticity that modern audiences crave, especially in an era where social media often overshadows genuine experiences. Sharing this image on platforms like Instagram could spark conversations about surfing’s roots and inspire a new generation to honor its heritage.
Surfing’s Ancient Hawaiian Roots
To understand Charles Kauha’s place in history, we need to rewind to surfing’s origins. Known as he‘e nalu (wave sliding), surfing was a cornerstone of ancient Hawaiian culture, practiced by everyone from ali‘i (chiefs) to maka‘āinana (commoners). Boards like the alaia, which Kauha likely used, were crafted from native woods like koa and shaped with precision. Surfing wasn’t just recreation; it was spiritual, competitive, and communal.
By the time Kauha was photographed, surfing had faced challenges. Missionaries in the 19th century discouraged it, viewing it as frivolous or indecent. Yet, Hawaiians like Kauha kept the tradition alive, passing it down through generations. For modern readers, this resilience mirrors the fight to preserve indigenous cultures today—a cause that resonates deeply with younger, socially conscious audiences.
Why Charles Kauha Matters Today
So, why should a surfer from 1898 matter to you? Charles Kauha represents the unsung heroes who carried surfing through tough times. His story aligns with values modern surfers hold dear: connection to nature, cultural pride, and authenticity. In an age of crowded lineups and corporate-sponsored contests, Kauha’s image reminds us of surfing’s pure essence—just a person, a board, and the ocean.
Kauha’s legacy also inspires action. Today’s surfers can honor him by supporting efforts to protect Hawaii’s coastlines, learning about native Hawaiian culture, or simply appreciating the history behind every wave they ride. For the eco-conscious and culturally curious, Kauha’s story is a call to engage with surfing’s past while shaping its future.
Bringing Charles Kauha’s Story to Life
Ready to dive deeper into Charles Kauha’s world? Visit Oahu’s historic surf spots like Waikiki or check out the Bishop Museum, which houses artifacts from surfing’s early days. Share the 1898 photo on social media with #CharlesKauha to spark discussions about surfing’s unsung pioneers. And next time you paddle out, channel Kauha’s spirit—ride with purpose, respect the ocean, and keep the aloha alive.
Charles Kauha may be a footnote in history, but his wave-riding moment in 1898 echoes through time. Let’s celebrate this forgotten Hawaiian surfer and the timeless culture he represents.
