What Is the Guam Congress Building?
This is the territorial capitol of Guam!
What Makes It Historical?
Three years after the U.S. recaptured Guam from Japan, the process of rebuilding was well underway, including the construction of a new seat of territorial government in Hagåtña. Designed by Pacific Island Engineers, this rectangular building was constructed by Brown & Root Pacific Bridge & Maxon Construction, breaking ground September 2, 1947 and wrapping up July 8, 1948. This building kicked off the restoration of Hagåtña at large after it was decimated during World War II!
But when it opened, this building left a lot unclear. For starters, the dedication speech by Naval Governor, Charles A. Pownall, was a reminder that Guam was still under military rule. This led to clashes between the governor and Congress, represented in meetings by Speaker Antonio Won Pat. When Congress attempted to subpoena naval members suspected of wrongdoing, the governor overrode the subpoenas, leading to a unanimous walkout on March 5, 1949!
This walkout, introduced by Carlos P. Taitano, shocked the mainland, and on August 1, 1950, Congress passed the Organic Act of Guam, establishing a civil government on Guam and U.S. citizenship status for island residents, minus the ability to vote in national elections. Beyond that, Congress has rejected amendments to the Organic Act, and the creation of a Guam Constitution has stalled at draft. Nonetheless, the quest for self determination goes on into modern times inside the Guam Congress Building!
How Can I #HelpTheHelpers?
- Volunteer with the Guam Preservation Trust!
- Donate to the Guam Preservation Trust!
- Be a responsible visitor! Please respect the signs and pathways, and treat all structures and artifacts with respect. They’ve endured a lot to survive into the present. They’ll need our help to make it into the future!
How Do I Get There?
163 Chalan Santo Papa Street
Hagåtña, GU 96910
(Take Me There!)
When Should I Visit?
The Guam Congress Building is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM!
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