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Guam Institute: A Window into Guam's Past

Explore Guam's Chamorro heritage at the Guam Institute, a pre-war landmark in Hagåtña dedicated to preserving the island's unique cultural narratives.

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The Guam Institute, housed in the Jose P. Lujan House in Hagåtña, stands as a testament to Guam's pre-war history and Chamorro heritage. Built in 1911, the building served as the home of the Guam Institute, the island's most successful private school of the pre-World War II era, from 1928 until the Japanese invasion in 1941. Today, it is a historical landmark and home to the Guam Preservation Trust.

A brief summary to Guam Institute

Local tips

  • Check the schedule for special events or workshops to engage with local customs and traditions.
  • Take a guided tour for in-depth insights into Guam's history and the significance of the Guam Institute.
  • Allow extra time to explore other historical sites and attractions in the surrounding Hagåtña area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Guam Institute is located at 157 Padre Palomo Street in Hagåtña. If you are already in the Hagåtña area, such as near the Plaza de España or the Guam Museum, walking is a convenient option. From the Guam Museum, walk towards Padre Palomo Street, which is a short walk away. Turn right onto Padre Palomo Street, and the Guam Institute will be on your left. Walking will not incur any costs.

  • Public Transport

    The Guam Regional Transit Authority (GRTA) operates bus routes that connect most villages on Guam with Hagåtña. From various locations on Guam, take a bus heading towards Hagåtña and disembark near the Guam Museum. From there, walk towards Padre Palomo Street, which is a short 5-minute walk. Turn right onto Padre Palomo Street, and the Guam Institute will be located on your left. Bus fares are approximately $3.00 per ride.

  • Taxi/Ride Share

    Taxis are available at hotels and major shopping centers. You can also use ride-sharing services. Input 'Guam Institute' or the address '157 Padre Palomo Street, Hagåtña, 96910, Guam' into the app. Depending on the starting location, the cost may range from $15 to $25. Taxi flag rate is $2.40, $4.00 for the first mile, and $0.80 every ¼ mile thereafter.

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Discover more about Guam Institute

Located in the heart of Hagåtña, the Guam Institute offers visitors a glimpse into Guam's rich history and Chamorro culture. The building itself, also known as the Jose P. Lujan House, was constructed in 1911 by Jose Pangelinan Lujan, a carpenter and cabinet maker. It is one of the few houses in Agana that survived World War II. From 1928 to 1941, the house was home to the Guam Institute, the island's only successful private school during that period. The school was founded by Nieves M. Flores, a Filipino attorney. Many prominent local figures, including Archbishop Felixberto Flores, Chief Judge Joaquin Perez, and Governor Ricardo Bordallo, were students at the Guam Institute. The building suffered damage from Typhoon Pamela in 1976 but was restored in the 1980s with federal grant funds. Today, the Guam Preservation Trust is dedicated to preserving Guam's historic sites, culture, and perspectives. The Guam Institute hosts exhibits and cultural events that highlight Guam's history, from its ancient Chamorro roots to its colonial past and the impact of World War II. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and historical documents that tell the story of Guam's evolution.

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