Sumay Cemetery: A Window to Guam's Past

Sumay Cemetery stands as a poignant reminder of Guam's rich and complex history. Located on what is now Naval Base Guam, it's the final vestige of Sumay, a once-vibrant village that was a cultural and commercial hub before World War II. The village was destroyed during the Battle of Guam in 1944, and its residents were displaced. The cemetery, likely established in the late 19th century, provides a tangible link to the past. Although many grave markers were destroyed during the war, those that remain offer a glimpse into the lives of the Chamorro, Spanish, and American individuals who shaped Guam's story. Inscriptions in Chamorro, Spanish and English mark the graves. The cemetery is small, about 0.7 acres, and is enclosed by a decorative wall that was constructed in 1934. The wall itself bears scars from the bombing during the 1944 invasion. Visiting Sumay Cemetery offers a chance for reflection and remembrance. It's a place to honor those who came before and to learn about the resilience of the Chamorro people. The cemetery is maintained by local village leaders. Access to the cemetery requires access to Naval Base Guam.