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Blunts Point Battery: A WWII Coastal Defense

Explore Blunts Point Battery in American Samoa: A historic WWII site with stunning views of Pago Pago Harbor and rich military history.

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Blunts Point Battery, located on Matautu Ridge near Pago Pago, American Samoa, is a well-preserved World War II coastal gun battery. It offers visitors a glimpse into the island's strategic importance during the war and provides stunning views of Pago Pago Harbor. The site is accessible via a moderately challenging hiking trail.

A brief summary to Blunts Point Battery

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as the trail to the battery can be moderately challenging.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no amenities available on-site.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos.
  • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of Pago Pago Harbor and the well-preserved historical structures.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Utulei village, head southeast on Route 001. Follow the road for approximately 1 mile. Look for the trailhead on your right, marked with signs for Blunts Point Battery. The hike to the battery is moderately challenging and takes about 30-45 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the main bus depot in Fagatogo, take an 'aiga bus heading towards the Eastern District. Ask the driver to drop you off at Utulei. From Utulei, follow the walking directions to the Blunts Point Battery trailhead. Bus fare is approximately $2.50. Buses operate until around 5:00 PM Monday to Friday, with reduced service on Saturdays and limited service on Sundays.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout Tutuila. A taxi from Pago Pago to the Blunts Point Battery trailhead will cost approximately $10-$15. Agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey. From the trailhead, follow the hiking directions to the battery.

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Discover more about Blunts Point Battery

Blunts Point Battery, also known as Blunts Point Naval Gun or Matautu Ridge Gun Site, is a historic gun battery that played a crucial role in the defense of American Samoa during World War II. Situated on Matautu Ridge near Pago Pago, this site offers a unique blend of military history and scenic beauty. In 1940, as tensions escalated, the U.S. government began fortifying American Samoa. United States Marines installed two 6-inch naval guns at Blunts Point, with another battery at Breakers Point on the opposite side of the harbor. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941 and the subsequent capture of Guam, American Samoa became a vital strategic base, the only major American base in the Western Pacific. It was further fortified in anticipation of a potential attack. Although no attack came, American Samoa served as a critical supply and training point for American military actions in the Pacific. The battery has been recently restored and is in good condition. Visitors can explore the well-preserved gun emplacements and fortifications by hiking the Blunts Point Trail. The trail offers moderately difficult hiking and rewards hikers with panoramic views of Pago Pago Harbor and the surrounding coastline. Interpretive signs along the trail provide historical context, enriching the visitor experience. Blunts Point Battery was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987, recognizing its significance as a rare example of a World War II Pacific coastal gun that remains in relatively pristine condition. The site is open to the public daily, offering an opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the sacrifices made during the war.

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