Day 123: Government House, Pago Pago, American Samoa

📌APIA Every Day (123) - The Government House, located in Pago Pago, American Samoa, has served as the residence for U.S. naval commandants and later governors since the early 1900s. Captain U. Sebree initiated its construction in 1903, choosing a site with strategic views to host foreign dignitaries and represent American presence in the region. The house became an important venue for diplomatic interactions, hosting officials from Germany, France, Italy, New Zealand, and other nations.

During World War I and the subsequent seizure of German Samoa by New Zealand, diplomatic activities at Government House increased. The building continued to play a significant role during and after World War II, temporarily housing military governors and serving as a symbol of American governance in the South Pacific. In 1951, the administration of American Samoa transitioned from naval to civilian control, but Government House remained the official residence of the elected governor. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 and designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1990.

LEARN MORE:

National Park Service: Government House National Register of Historic Places Registration Form

Visit Pago Pago: Government House

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