Sumay Cemetery: A Silent Witness to Guam's History

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.