Peter Hose facts for kids

Peter Hose (pronounced José), also known as the "Hula Cop", was a special police officer from Honolulu, Hawaii. He was born on September 29, 1881, and passed away on January 4, 1925. Peter Hose was famous for his unique way of directing traffic, using fun, dance-like hula movements! He was also the very first police officer of African descent in Honolulu.

Early Life

Peter Hose was born in Kahauiki, on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. This was on September 29, 1881. His father came from Cape Verde, an island nation off the coast of Africa. His father was a citizen of Portugal.

The Hula Cop's Story

Peter Hose joined the Honolulu Police Department. He made history as the first African-American officer on the force. He became a traffic cop, helping cars and people move safely.

What made him special was how he directed traffic. He used movements inspired by the traditional Hawaiian hula dance! People loved watching him. He was also known for being very friendly to everyone.

Crowds would often gather just to see Peter Hose perform his "traffic hula." Even the famous actor Charlie Chaplin watched him when he visited Honolulu in 1917. Peter Hose and Charlie Chaplin even played a fun trick on the city! During Chaplin's visit, Chaplin pretended to direct traffic in Hose's place.

Peter Hose left the police force for a short time. He worked as an overseer for school janitors. But he soon returned to the Honolulu Police Department. He served as a police officer for 18 years in total. Peter Hose passed away at his home on January 4, 1925, from tuberculosis. His family was with him.