Sumay Cemetery: A Silent Witness to Guam's History

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Explore Guam's past at Sumay Cemetery, a historic site on Naval Base Guam, offering a glimpse into the island's Chamorro heritage and WWII history.

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Sumay Cemetery

Sumay Cemetery, located on Naval Base Guam, is a poignant reminder of the village of Sumay, a once-thriving Chamorro community destroyed during WWII. Established in the late 19th century, it is the oldest historic-era cemetery on the island, offering a glimpse into Guam's past.

A brief summary to Sumay Cemetery

CMP3+CJ9, Apra Harbor, GU

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photographs.
Respect the solemn nature of the site; maintain quiet and mindful behavior during your visit.
Consider learning about the local history before your visit to appreciate the significance of the cemetery.
Bring water and wear comfortable shoes, as you may want to walk around and explore the surroundings.
Take time to read the inscriptions on the graves; they often provide insight into the lives of the individuals buried there.

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Getting There

Car

From anywhere in Apra Harbor, head towards Sumay Drive. Follow Sumay Drive until you see signs for Sumay Cemetery. Turn onto CMP3+CJ9, which will lead you directly to the cemetery entrance. Note that access to the cemetery requires access to Naval Base Guam. Parking is available near the cemetery entrance.
Public Transport

From Umatac Bay, take the Guam Bus (Route 1) towards Apra Harbor. Get off at the stop closest to CMP3+CJ9. From there, walk approximately 10-15 minutes to reach Sumay Cemetery. Follow the road signs and ask locals for directions if needed. Be prepared for some walking, as public transport may not drop you off directly at the cemetery. Bus fare is around $4 for a day pass.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Apra Harbor, but note that some taxi drivers only accept cash. A taxi ride from Naval Base Guam Unaccompanied Housing Center to Regal Guam (a similar distance) is approximately 298 PHP. Ensure the driver is familiar with Naval Base Guam and Sumay Cemetery. Note that access to the cemetery requires access to Naval Base Guam.

Discover more about Sumay Cemetery

Nestled within the grounds of Naval Base Guam, Sumay Cemetery stands as a historical landmark and a somber tribute to a bygone era. This small, roughly square cemetery, enclosed by a decorative wall, occupies approximately 0.7 acres. Established in the late 19th century, with the oldest legible marker dating back to 1911, it serves as the last tangible remnant of the village of Sumay.Sumay was once a vibrant center of Chamorro culture and commerce. However, its fate was sealed when the naval base expanded, leading to the relocation of its residents to Santa Rita. The village was further devastated during the Battle of Guam in 1944, leaving the cemetery as one of the few surviving testaments to its existence. While official cemetery records were lost in the war, the site is meticulously maintained, offering a serene space for reflection.Walking through the cemetery, visitors can observe inscriptions in Chamorro, Spanish, and English, reflecting the island's diverse cultural influences. Though many grave markers were damaged or lost during the war, those that remain provide insight into the lives and stories of those who once called Sumay home. The cemetery's location within the naval base requires visitors to obtain access, adding a layer of solemnity to the experience. It's a place to remember the resilience of the Chamorro people and the sacrifices made during the war.