Waimea, Kauaʻi
March 11, 1933
Alohikea First Citizen of the Garden Island
Alfred U. Alohikea, Garden Islander who once sang his way into the legislature, and who is known as the author of many lovely Hawaiian songs. — Photo by Hawaii Tourist Bureau
One of Kauaʻi's most interesting characters is Alfred U. Alohikea, taro planter at Hanalei. His greatest love is for the valley there. Its beach of white sand is considered the most beautiful in Hawaiʻi. Its vast rice fields are matchless in the territory. There are mountains too with numerous waterfalls to make the place a grand scenic spot.
As the composer of "Hanohano Hanalei" or "grand Hanalei," Mr. Alohikea is known throughout Hawaiʻi. The song, an unusually beautiful tune, tells of the wonders of Hanalei. It is one of the most popular Hawaiian numbers ever recorded by a talking machine.
As mention of Duke Kahanamoku, former world champion swimmer, is synonymous to Honolulu, so is Alfred Alohikea to the Garden Island. He would be Kauaʻi's choice for a messenger of goodwill to any land. Mr. Alohikea was the hit last week at the special broadcast of the Hawaii Tourist Bureau excursion at Waimea, a short way from the spot where Capt. James Cook first landed on these islands in 1778.
He sang "Hanohano Hanalei" to the huge delight of his radio audience. Invariably, as he strums his guitar and releases his rich singing voice, his face is wreathed in a broad smile, his eyes shine with glee.
Mr. Alohikea sang his way to a seat in the territorial house of representatives in 1928.
"I am the composer of 'Hanohano Hanalei,' phonograph records of which are played all over the world, and if you elect me, I promise make good laws like my songs."
— Alfred U. Alohikea, campaign speech