On June 14, 2025, Sherman Library & Gardens proudly hosted the centennial commemoration of The Great Rescue of 1925—a defining moment in Corona del Mar’s history. One hundred years ago, Duke Kahanamoku, Gerard Vultee, Owen Hale, Bill Herwig, William McElhannon, Charles Plummer, Thomas Sheffield, Antar Deraga, and J.W. Porter courageously saved 12 fishermen from near-certain tragedy off our coast.

This year, the City of Newport Beach approved The Great Rescue, a commemorative plaque honoring both the brave rescuers and the lives they saved. The plaque will be installed at Vista Point in Corona del Mar, overlooking the very site of the historic rescue.

More than 200 community members gathered for the heartfelt event, which featured live music by Kerry and the Surftones and a keynote conversation with Paul Burnet—author and co-owner of Surfside Sports. Burnet shared vivid stories of the rescue and spoke about its lasting impact. Duke Kahanamoku’s fame and heroic actions pushed Corona del Mar into the national spotlight for the first time in the village’s short history.

Sherman Library & Gardens continues to serve as a vibrant cultural and botanical hub—building bridges between nonprofit organizations, schools, businesses, families, and artists. We were honored to commemorate this centennial alongside partners from the surf and rescue community, the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center (SHACC), the Surfrider Foundation, OpenWater and the Ben Carlson Foundation.

Moments like these are a testament to the strength and spirit of our coastal community—and we’re proud to help preserve and share them.