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Jean P. Haydon Museum: A Cultural Gem of American Samoa

Explore American Samoa's rich heritage at the Jean P. Haydon Museum in Fagatogo, showcasing Samoan culture, history, and art.

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The Jean P. Haydon Museum in Fagatogo, American Samoa, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Samoan Islands. Named after the wife of former Governor John M. Haydon, the museum features exhibits ranging from traditional Samoan artifacts to contemporary art, offering visitors a comprehensive view of the island's unique identity.

A brief summary to Jean P Haydon Museum

Local tips

  • Check out the museum's website or call ahead to confirm opening hours, as they may vary.
  • Take your time to explore the exhibits and learn about the history and culture of American Samoa.
  • Ask the museum staff about guided tours for a more in-depth and enriching experience.
  • Visit the Sogelau Memorial Park, which is part of the museum complex.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Jean P. Haydon Museum is located in downtown Fagatogo, across from the U.S. Post Office. From the Pago Pago port, it's approximately a 5-minute walk. Exit the port and walk straight toward the center of town. The museum will be on your right. There are no costs associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving via aiga bus from another part of Tutuila, all buses converge at the main bus depot located directly behind the Fagatogo Market. From the bus depot, walk towards the front of the market; the museum will be across the street. Bus fares vary depending on the distance traveled, but a short trip within the Pago Pago area typically costs $0.75 - $1.00. Be aware that buses do not operate on Sundays.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Pago Pago. A short taxi ride within Fagatogo should cost approximately $2.00 - $3.00, as taxi rates are government regulated. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. From Pago Pago International Airport to the museum by taxi will cost $17-$21.

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Discover more about Jean P Haydon Museum

The Jean P. Haydon Museum, situated in the heart of Fagatogo, is a vital repository of American Samoa's local history and culture. Established in 1970 and officially opened in 1973, the museum is named after Jean P. Haydon, the First Lady of American Samoa from 1969 to 1974, who played a crucial role in initiating its collection. The museum's collections are housed in a building with a rich history itself. Constructed in 1917 as the U.S. Naval Station Tutuila Commissary, the building later served as the island's post office from 1950 to 1971 before being converted into the museum. The building's architecture reflects a distinctive Naval style adapted to the tropical climate, featuring concrete construction designed to imitate rough-cut stone. Inside, visitors can explore a diverse array of exhibits that highlight various aspects of Samoan culture and history. These include traditional crafts, tools, and household items, as well as ancient navigational charts, traditional clothing, and ceremonial items. The museum also features exhibits on natural history, tapa making, traditional tattooing, war clubs, kava bowls, and historic photographs. Noteworthy items include the Fala o Futa, a fine mat of its kind in Samoa, and cannons from the Kaimiloa, a warship from King Kalākaua of Hawai'i. The museum also acknowledges American Samoa's role in the U.S. Apollo space missions, displaying lunar rocks brought back from the Moon and an American Samoa flag carried to the Moon by Apollo 11. The museum is the official repository for collections of artifacts for American Samoa.

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