Bowling Green Celebrates Duncan Hines Legacy with National Triumphs!

Bowling Green, Kentucky, USA - Bowling Green’s own Duncan Hines is basking in the spotlight of national recognition, as the legacy of this celebrated figure continues to inspire contemporary achievements. Recently, Western Kentucky University (WKU) made waves at the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) competition, marking a notable achievement for the university and the local community.

The WKU Concrete Canoe team secured third place at the ASCE Civil Engineering Student Championship held at California Polytechnic State University from June 27 to 29, 2025. Their canoe, aptly named “Sweet Crete,” was more than just a remarkable engineering feat; it paid homage to Hines, a Bowling Green native and revered WKU alum. Team captain Evan Brittenham couldn’t be prouder, stating that celebrating Hines‘ legacy through their work was a unique honor, as highlighted by WNKY.

A Nod to the Community

Not only did the WKU Concrete Canoe team impress at the competition, but they also garnered accolades for their overall contributions. They received the Robert Ridgway Award for being the most outstanding ASCE student chapter in the nation and finished as a runner-up for the ASCE Richard J. Scranton Award for exceptional community service—all impressive achievements that underline their commitment to both engineering excellence and civic engagement.

On a related note, Cumberland Trace Elementary students are also involved in celebrating Hines‘ legacy. Recently, they competed in the National Junior Beta Club Competition in Florida after winning at the Kentucky state level. Their project, focusing on “Duncan Hines Days” and “Why Duncan?!”, showcased the importance of community service and leadership, impacting their peers and communities. It’s heartening to see that Hines‘ influence extends into the education sector—truly a testament to his enduring impact, as outlined by WKU.

The Man Behind the Brand

Duncan Hines, born on March 26, 1880, in Bowling Green, was not just an author and food critic, but a pioneer in the culinary world. His restaurant ratings for travelers transformed dining out in America. After a varied career including working as a traveling salesman, Hines and his wife kicked off the process of compiling a guide to the best eateries across the country, eventually publishing „Adventures in Good Eating.“ This book became a hit and set the stage for the food product brand that still bears his name today.

In a twist of fate, Hines transitioned from restaurant critic to food producer, and by the late 1950s, his name graced a range of products including cake mixes. The brand changed hands multiple times and now falls under the umbrella of Conagra Brands. With a portion of U.S. Route 31W north of Bowling Green named Duncan Hines Highway, and a dedicated exhibit at WKU’s Kentucky Museum, the legacy of this local hero continues to be celebrated at every turn, as detailed in Wikipedia.

From college competitions to community service initiatives, the spirit of Duncan Hines is well and truly alive in Bowling Green. It seems there’s always something more to discover within his legacy—a legacy that not only brings local pride but also serves as a source of inspiration for future generations.