It's a Cultural Thing

This past month has been Chamorro month where the island celebrates its heritage. They have had events out in town as well as on base. The NEX (that’s military speak for Navy Exchange, which is very similar to Wal-Mart) had a large canopy made from palm frawns set up out front of its doors. Every day for a week someone sat under the hut demonstrating something different; basket weaving, coconut cutting and putting out samples of the local fruits to try. I was very surprised when I went to the home center one day (this is like a very small home depot on base) and the locals that worked there had made all kinds of food for everyone to try. “Grab a plate and have lunch on us” was the greeting when I entered. It was so neat!

Ga'na Point Guam

Today I spent the morning at Ga’na Point. The National Park Service was hosting an event where local weavers taught us how to make Easter baskets out of natural materials. It was a very interesting few hours and I left with a lot more knowledge on various subjects than when I arrived.

Melee the Story teller

First was a story teller who told the Legend of the Coconut Tree and how it came to the island. She sang (it was more like a chant to me) a few lines in the Chamorro language and then spoke it in English. It was a very interesting story and I enjoyed the entertainment as much as all the kids did.

Ranger Kelly

Next Ranger Kelly taught us about the coconut tree. How it germinates and grows from within the coconut and eventually sprouts sending roots out to the ground. She also told us of the many uses that the coconut tree can and has provided for the inhabitants on island for thousands of years. Every part of the tree is used for something. Clothing, stilts for homes, rafts, ropes, food/milk and long leaves called spikes for weaving useful items are just a few.



Basket Weaver and My Instructor

Then they separated everyone into groups and sent us off with a local weaver who taught us how to make a basket. I was very intrigued by all the different designs and each group made a different style basket. Mine could probably use some work but it’s not to shabby for my first attempt. I had a great time taking in some of the heritage of the island and enjoyed meeting some of the people.

Click on any image to view full size!

Styles of Baskets

Starting the basket

Cute lil guy next to me. I had fun helping him

My Basket almost complete!