Fita Fita Barracks

Fita Fita Barrack

NPS

Quick Facts

Location:

Pago Pago

Significance:

Historic

OPEN TO PUBLIC:

No

MANAGED BY:

American Samoa Government

 Following the signing of the Deed of Cession, Commander Benjamin Tilley, who became the first appointed Governor of American Samoa, recruited and enlisted 58 Samoan men into the U.S. Navy. 

These men became known as the Fitafita Guard. Their role was to provide security and support for the Naval station. By World War II, the Fitafita Guard had grown to approximately 100 Samoan men. In 1908, the Fitafita Guards constructed and completed this barracks. The building has continued to serve the government of American Samoa and today houses offices associated with the Department of Public Safety. This is an important building because it reminds us about the first time Samoans enlisted in the U.S military. 

Tags: national park of american samoa