In the 1930s, when the nation was in the throes of the worst economic depression in its history, and international incidents pointed toward World War II, a Hollywood child megastar made Hawai‘i totally forget its troubles.

Shirley Temple, the dimpled moppet, with blond ringlets and a charming smile, had appeared in Hollywood musicals—in 1934 alone, five of them, including Bright Eyes, in which she sang “On the Good Ship Lollipop.” By the age of seven, Shirley was among the greatest Hollywood box-office attractions of all times and spectacularly assisted in the manufacture of celluloid dreams. She was given a Special Academy Award for her contribution to motion picture entertainment.

When Shirley and her parents arrived on July 29, 1935, on the luxury liner Lurline, the Star-Bulletin headlined, “Depression in U.S. is Ended.” Shirley was greeted by Sheriff Duke Kahanamoku, the captain of the U.S. Navy Yard, and 10,000 cheering men, women, and children, who jammed Pier 11. From dockside she sang “On the Good Ship Lollipop.” The governor welcomed her to ‘Iolani Palace, where she again sang the famous song. She monopolized the front pages during her entire three-week visit. As the newspapers said, she softened everyone's hearts.

Shirley Temple later retired from movies and made other, quieter trips to the Islands. Her 1935 visit has remained a landmark, however, in enthusiastic Island welcomes for celebrities.

By Helen G. Chapin