GEORGE FREETH
FIRST SURFER IN THE UNITED STATES
GEORGE FREETH WAS BORN IN HONOLULU NOVEMBER 8, 1883 OF HAWAIIAN AND IRISH ANCESTRY. AS A YOUNGSTER HE REVIVED THE LOST POLYNESIAN ART OF SURFING WHILE STANDING ON A BOARD. HENRY E. HUNTINGTON WAS AMAZED AT FREETH'S SURFING AND SWIMMING ABILITIES AND INDUCED GEORGE TO COME TO REDONDO BEACH IN 1907 TO HELP THE BUILDING OF "THE LARGEST, WARM SALTWATER PLUNGE IN THE WORLD." |
