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Ceremonial Hawaiian Paddle for President Barack Obama
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Ceremonial Hawaiian Paddle for President Barack Obama
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

Ceremonial Hawaiian Paddle for President Barack Obama

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.054884
Object Type Paddle
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Date 2009
Medium wood (koa), leather, glass, shell, plant material
DimensionsOverall - 3D H 2 1/4 in x W 10 3/4 in x D 52 in (5.7 cm x 27.3 cm x 132.1 cm )

Physical DescriptionCommemorative Native Hawaiian canoe paddle with a personal inscription to the President from Hawaiian restaurateur and chef, Alan Wong. The koa wood paddle has a smooth polished surface with a black leather cord at one end with an amber-toned glass bead and shell charm and a twine bow tied at the bottom of the shaft.
Historical NoteThis gift was given by the Hawaiian chef and restauranteur Alan Wong on the occasion of the Presidential Luau at the White House on June 25, 2009, which Wong catered. This paddle was held in the West Wing from 2009 until 2016.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to President Barack Obama during the Obama administration. It was received through the Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional Details
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Barack Obama Presidential Library. The Barack Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62
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