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Guam Institute: A Window to the Past

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Discover Guam's history at the Guam Institute, a beautifully restored landmark in Hagåtña.

The Guam Institute, also known as the Jose P. Lujan House, is a historical landmark in Hagåtña. Built in 1911, it served as one of Guam's first private schools and stands as a testament to the island's rich history, architecture, and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Guam Institute

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a quieter experience.
  • Check for special events or workshops to enhance your visit.
  • Explore the surrounding area for additional historical landmarks and scenic views.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in central Hagåtña, begin at the Governor Joseph Flores Memorial Park. Head east on Route 1 (Marine Corps Drive), the main road. Walk for approximately 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Padre Palomo Street. Turn left onto Padre Palomo Street and walk straight for about 0.2 miles. The Guam Institute is located at 157 Padre Palomo Street on your right. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From the nearest bus stop in Hagåtña, take a bus that travels towards the northern part of the island. Check the bus schedule, as buses may not run frequently. Alight at the bus stop closest to the intersection of Route 1 and Padre Palomo Street. Walk south on Padre Palomo Street for about 0.2 miles to find the Guam Institute at 157 Padre Palomo Street on your right. Bus fares average around $3 per ride.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available at hotels and major shopping centers. A taxi from Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport to Hagåtña is estimated to cost between $50 and $60. Once in Hagåtña, a short taxi ride to the Guam Institute will likely cost the standard flag rate of $2.40, $4.00 for the first mile, and $0.80 every ¼ mile thereafter. Confirm the metered rate with the driver before starting your trip.

Discover more about Guam Institute

The Guam Institute, or Jose P. Lujan House, is a significant historical site located in Hagåtña, Guam. Constructed in 1911 by Jose Pangelinan Lujan, a Chamorro carpenter and cabinet maker, the two-story structure showcases a blend of Spanish and American architectural influences. The building is one of the few remaining pre-World War II houses in Hagåtña, making it a valuable link to Guam's past.Initially, Lujan intended to rent the house to U.S. Naval officers, reflecting the island's transition from Spanish to American rule in the early 20th century. However, from 1928 to 1941, the house became home to the Guam Institute, one of the first and most successful private schools on the island. Founded by Nieves M. Flores, the school played a vital role in educating many of Guam's future political and civic leaders. The Institute closed in December 1941 due to the Japanese invasion.The building withstood the Japanese occupation and American bombing during World War II, though it sustained damage. It was further damaged by Typhoon Pamela in 1976. However, thanks to its listing on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1977, the owner secured federal funds to restore the building between 1980 and 1982. The Guam Preservation Trust completed a meticulous rehabilitation in 2010, preserving its architectural integrity and revitalizing it for use as their offices and for community use. Today, the Guam Institute stands as a symbol of resilience, preserving and sharing the cultural heritage of Guam.

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