The prototype for the fictional Charlie Chan was Chang Apana, a Honolulu detective, who was born on December 26, 1871 in Waipio, Oahu, Hawaii.
Detective Apana had a remarkable career as a police officer and detective. He was employed with the Honolulu Police Department for 34 years (1898-1932). During his career, he engaged in many colorful crime-solving adventures.
To countless fans of Charlie Chan, Detective Apana will always be remembered as the inspiration for the greatest detective in American literature.
Happy Birthday, Chang Apana. You are remembered by the fans of Charlie Chan and by the people of Hawaii.
