Your Guide to the Guam Museum Exhibit

I Hinanao-ta, Nu I Manaotao Tano - I CHamoru Siha: “The Journey of the CHamoru People”

Immerse yourself in the captivating story of Guam with a visit to the Senator Antonio M. Palomo Guam Museum and Chamorro Educational Facility in Hagåtña. This expansive 6,200 square foot (576m²) gallery, located on the second floor, is the first of its kind on the island, offering a truly unique and interactive experience.

Step into a world where history comes alive through state-of-the-art technology and the most comprehensive display of Guam’s history and culture ever assembled in the CHamoru language. Designed to inspire and inform visitors of all ages, backgrounds, and languages, this remarkable exhibit features:

• Over 300 meticulously curated artifacts
• Thousands of evocative images
• Engaging audio narratives
• Compelling short films

These elements are thoughtfully woven together across seven distinct galleries, guiding you through the rich historical and CHamoru narrative of Guam. Each descriptive panel is presented in both English and CHamoru, and for an even more accessible experience, simply scan the accompanying QR codes to translate the text into Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, and Korean.

Your journey through time begins in the Queuing Room, a vibrant space beyond a breathtaking floor-to-ceiling mural depicting "Fo’na Creating the People of Guam." Here, you'll find a diverse collection of local artwork showcasing pivotal eras in Guam's history, culture, and society. As you move through this captivating display, a welcoming video will greet you before you enter the Orientation Theater. This mini-theater experience will instantly transport you to the ancient CHamoru past, starting with an animated creation story of Guam before transitioning to live-action footage illustrating how the seafaring CHamorus first settled on the island.

The Guam Museum is generally open:

• Tuesday - Friday: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Saturday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
• Sunday and Monday: Closed

It's always a good idea to check their official website (guammuseumfoundation.org) or call them directly at (671) 989-4455 before your visit, as hours can sometimes be adjusted for special events or holidays.

The History of the Guam Museum: Key Milestones

The dream of a Guam Museum began long ago, fueled by a desire to preserve the island's unique history and CHamoru culture.

• Early Beginnings (1920s): The idea for a museum was first championed in 1926 by the Guam Teachers Association, led by Dr. Ramon Sablan. There was a strong call to collect artifacts and protect Guam's heritage, especially after many historical items were sent off-island for study.
• First Museum Established (1930s): The first official Guam Museum opened its doors in 1933 at the Plaza de España in Hagåtña, authorized by Governor Edmund Root. It was initially operated by the American Legion, with Hiram Elliott as its first director and Joaquin T. Aguon as its first curator. This early museum aimed to showcase the "most interesting and curious artifacts of the ancient Chamorro civilization."
• World War II Impact: World War II brought devastation. Many artifacts were taken to Japan during the occupation, and the museum building was destroyed during the American liberation of Guam in 1944.
• Post-War Recovery: While some items were recovered after the war, plans to rebuild the museum itself were put on hold for many years.