HONOLULU (KHON2) — In the ahupuaʻa of Waikīkī, which lies in the moku of Kona here on Oʻahu, stands a street named after a personal friend to the King. 

We are speaking of Hollinger St.

Arriving in Hawaiʻi in 1885, Thomas Hollinger became a well-known resident of Honolulu.

Befriending King David Kalākaua and other notables, Hollinger served as the royal blacksmith.

Specializing in hand-made lightweight racing plates for ponies, he became known as “Honest Tom.”

When a horse came in first place just under the wire, the saying was “Honest Tom made the shoes.”

Following weeks of an illness, Thomas Hollinger passed away in December of 1922 at the age of 66.

Tom Hollinger had multiple children, including son Ben Hollinger who became influential in both business and public life.

For example, he was instrumental in the first public playgrounds and the Honolulu Zoo.

Did you know that the zoo’s first large animal was a 3-year-old African elephant? 

Thanks to Mr. Hollinger.

In 1914, Ben Hollinger became the first Park Director when the City and County of Honolulu acquired responsibility over Kapiʻolani Park.

He began collecting animals, which included a 2,500-pound elephant named Daisy for approximately $2000.

Making her debut at the zoo on September 10, 1916, Daisy became a sensation as the first elephant on the islands.

Over time, Daisy became ill-tempered and feared. 

In 1933, she attacked her caretaker, killing him.

Subsequently, Daisy was unfortunately put down by police and her body was laid to rest at sea.

Did you know?  Now you do!