Today’s blog post will be brief, as I have just begun reading the First Edition of Michael Rossi’s book, Capturing Kahanamoku.
I stumbled upon this book by chance just a week before its release on October 21, 2025. Consequently, I ordered it immediately, and I was pleased to receive it two days after its launch.
As I delved into its pages, one particular detail captured my attention: a photograph of the finished cast of David Kahanamoku on display at the American Museum of Natural History. Being Duke’s brother, I naturally have a vested interest in the Kahanamoku family, as they are all connected.
I visited the Museum of Natural History’s website, but unfortunately, I did not find any exhibits related to him. Therefore, I decided to send an email in hopes of receiving a response, and this is what I wrote.
Subject: Inquiry Regarding David Kahanamoku’s Cast and Postcards
I hope this message finds you well. I apologize if my questions seem unusual, but I am unsure which department to contact and hope you might assist me with my curiosity.
Recently, a book titled “Capturing Kahanamoku” by Michael Rossi was released. Within its pages, I noticed an image accompanied by the caption, “The finished cast of David Kahanamoku on display at the American Museum of Natural History.”
As a blogger focused on Duke Kahanamoku, the Father of Modern Surfing, I am particularly interested in his younger brother, David. This connection has prompted my inquiry.
Could you please confirm whether David’s cast is still on display at your museum?
Additionally, I would like to know if you offer any postcards featuring David Kahanamoku or related imagery. I explored your website but was unable to locate any postcards for sale.
If there are no postcards available for purchase and David’s display remains, may I kindly request your permission to take a photograph of him? The image in the book is rather dark, and a clearer version would be greatly appreciated for use as my default image when writing the blog.
I lived many States from your museum and the chances of visiting is none this is why here I am reaching out.
I would greatly appreciate any information you can provide, as I would love to incorporate your response into my blog.
Thank you very much for your assistance.
PS…I would like to continue my writing.
I also searched online for a direct email address for Michael Rossi, as I am eager to inquire whether he would be willing to autograph my book. I am considering purchasing another copy.
Owning this book is particularly significant for me, as it is my very first new publication on the subject of Kahanamoku. I must admit, I felt quite emotional earlier because all the other books I have collected related to Duke are used.
I am genuinely excited about the possibilities that lie ahead, as I anticipate discovering additional insights that may connect with my personal experiences and inspire another blog post.
Once I complete my reading—giving myself a month to do so—I plan to write a blog about the book, sharing my feelings and thoughts on the content.
That is all for now.
