Editing Pago Pago, American Samoa

{{Short description|Capital city of American Samoa}}
{{Infobox settlement
<!--See Template:Infobox Settlement for additional fields that may be available-->
<!-- Basic info  ---------------->
| name                        	= Pago Pago <!-- at least one of the first two fields must be filled in -->
| settlement_type             	= Village
| image_skyline               	= {{multiple image
| border                      	= infobox
| total_width                 	= 290
| image_style                 	= border:1;
| perrow                      	= 1/2/2/2
| caption_align               	= center
| image1                      	= Pagopago_amerika_sāmoa.jpg
| caption1                    	= [[Pago Pago Harbor]]
| image2                      	= AmericanSamoaLegislatureBuilding.jpg
| caption2                    	= [[American Samoa Fono]]
| image3                      	= One_of_the_seven_National_Natural_Landmarks_located_on_opposite_side_of_Pago_Pago_Harbor._A_great_mass_of_volcanic_rocks_(c0df8163-056a-ee75-06bf-67995a91f08a).jpg
| caption3                    	= [[Rainmaker Mountain]]
| image4                      	= High_Court_of_American_Samoa.jpg
| caption4                    	= [[High Court of American Samoa]]
| image5                      	= Jean_p_haydon_museum.png
| caption5                    	= [[Jean P. Haydon Museum]]
| image6                      	= Located_at_the_top_of_these_points_are_gun_batteries_that_protected_Pago_Pago_Harbor_after_the_bombings_of_Pearl_Harbor_in_1941_(c2bfff69-0942-32b4-e43a-a02d43f34264).jpg
| caption6                    	= [[Blunts Point Battery]]
| image7                      	= GOVERNMENT_HOUSE_OR_GOVERNOR'S_MANSION.jpg
| caption7                    	= [[Government House (American Samoa)|Government House]]
}}
| pushpin_map                 	= American Samoa central#USA American Samoa
| pushpin_label_position      	= top
| pushpin_mapsize             	=
| nicknames                   	= O le Maputasi ("The Single Chief's House")
<!-- Location ------------------>
| pushpin_map_caption         	=
| coordinates                 	= {{coord|14|16|26|S|170|42|16|W|region:US-AS|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_type            	= [[Sovereign state|Country]]
| subdivision_name            	= {{flag|United States}}
| subdivision_type1           	= [[Territories of the United States|Territory]]
| subdivision_name1           	= {{flag|American Samoa}}
| subdivision_type2           	= Island
| subdivision_name2           	= [[Tutuila]]
| subdivision_type3           	= District
| subdivision_name3           	= [[Eastern District, American Samoa|Eastern]]
| subdivision_type4           	= County
| subdivision_name4           	= [[Maoputasi County|Maoputasi]]
| established_title           	= Became Capital
| established_date            	= 1899
| named_for                   	= [[Pago Volcano]]
| governing_body              	= Village Council
| leader_title                	= Mayor
| leader_name                 	= [[Pulu Ae Ae]]
| elevation_m                 	= 9
| elevation_ft                	= 30
| elevation_min_ft            	= 0
| elevation_min_point         	= [[Pacific Ocean]]
| elevation_max_m             	= 653
| elevation_max_ft            	= 2,142
| elevation_max_point         	= [[Matafao Peak]]
| area_total_km2              	= 8.85
| population_total            	= 3000
| population_as_of            	= 2020
| population_footnotes        	=
| population_density_km2      	= 412.5
| population_note             	=
| population_urban            	= 15,000
| postal_code_type            	= [[ZIP code]]
| postal_code                 	= 96799<ref name="GR7">{{cite web|url=http://tools.usps.com/go/ZipLookupAction!input.action|title=USPS - Look Up a ZIP Code|access-date=February 15, 2012|author=United States Postal Service|year=2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120214204322/https://tools.usps.com/go/ZipLookupAction!input.action|archive-date=February 14, 2012|url-status=live}}</ref>
| area_code                   	= [[Area code 684|+1 684]]
| website                     	= {{URL|https://pagopago.com/}}
| timezone                    	= [[Samoa Time Zone]]
| utc_offset                  	= &minus;11
| blank_name_sec1             	= [[Köppen climate classification|Climate]]
| blank_info_sec1             	= [[Tropical rainforest climate|Af]]
| blank1_name_sec1            	= [[Federal Information Processing Standards|FIPS]] code
| blank1_info_sec1            	= {{FIPS|60|62500}}
| blank2_name_sec2            	= [[Geographic Names Information System|GNIS]] feature ID
| blank2_info_sec2            	= {{GNIS 4|1389119}}<ref name="GR4">{{cite web|url=http://geonames.usgs.gov/pls/gnispublic|title=Geographic Names Information System|access-date=January 31, 2008|publisher=[[United States Geological Survey]]|archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/698t1HjXe?url=http://geonames.usgs.gov/pls/gnispublic/f?p=132:1:3161899225272452|archive-date=July 14, 2012|url-status=live}}</ref>
| coor_type                   	= <!-- can be used to specify what the coordinates refer to -->
| pushpin_relief       	= y
| module  ={{Infobox mapframe |wikidata=yes |marker=village |zoom=12|frame-height=260 | stroke-width=1 |coord={{WikidataCoord|display=i}}}}
}}

'''Pago Pago''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|p|ɑː|ŋ|oʊ| |ˈ|p|ɑː|ŋ|oʊ|}} or {{IPAc-en|ˈ|p|ɑː|ŋ|ɡ|oʊ| |ˈ|p|ɑː|ŋ|ɡ|oʊ|}} {{respell|PAHNG|goh|PAHNG|goh}}; [[Samoan language|Samoan]]: {{IPA|sm|ˈpaŋo ˈpaŋo|audio|LL-Q34011 (smo)-Noaius Paticus-Pago Pago.wav}})<ref name="Harris, Ann G 2004 Page 604">Harris, Ann G. and Esther Tuttle (2004). ''Geology of National Parks''. Kendall Hunt. Page 604. {{ISBN|9780787299705}}.</ref> is the capital of [[American Samoa]]. It is in [[Maoputasi County, American Samoa|Maoputasi County]] on [[Tutuila]], the main island of American Samoa.

Pago Pago is home to one of the deepest natural harbors in the [[South Pacific Ocean]], sheltered from wind and rough seas, and strategically located.<ref name="States Central Intelligence Agency 2016 Page 19">United States Central Intelligence Agency (2016). ''The World Factbook 2016–17''. Government Printing Office. Page 19. {{ISBN|9780160933271}}.</ref><ref name="Grabowski-1992">Grabowski, John F. (1992). ''U.S. Territories and Possessions (State Report Series)''. Chelsea House Pub. {{ISBN|9780791010532}}.</ref>{{rp|52}}<ref name="Kristen-1999">Kristen, Katherine (1999). ''Pacific Islands (Portrait of America)''. San Val. {{ISBN|9780613032421}}.</ref>{{rp|12}} The harbor is also one of the best protected in the South Pacific,<ref name="Leonard-2009">Leonard, Barry (2009). ''Minimum Wage in American Samoa 2007: Economic Report''. Diane Publishing. {{ISBN|9781437914252}}.</ref>{{rp|11}} which gives American Samoa a natural advantage because it makes landing fish for processing easier.<ref name="Leonard-2009"/>{{rp|61}} [[Tourism]], entertainment, food, and [[tuna]] canning are its main industries. As of 1993, Pago Pago was the world's fourth-largest tuna processor.<ref name="Stanley-1993">Stanley, David (1993). ''South Pacific Handbook''. David Stanley. {{ISBN|9780918373991}}.</ref>{{rp|353}} In 2009, the total value of fish landed in Pago Pago — about $200,000,000 annually — is higher than in any other port in any U.S. state or territory.<ref name=NPS2009a>{{cite web |url=https://www.nps.gov/npsa/learn/nature/upload/NatHistGuideAS09.pdf |title=NATURAL HISTORY GUIDE TO AMERICAN SAMOA |publisher=National Park Service |date=2009 |page=48 |access-date=3 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170224140326/https://www.nps.gov/npsa/learn/nature/upload/NatHistGuideAS09.pdf |archive-date=2017-02-24 }}</ref> It is home to the largest tuna cannery in the world.<ref>Hamel, Jean-Francois (2018). ''World Seas: An Environmental Evaluation. Volume II: The Indian Ocean to the Pacific''. Academic Press. Page 636. {{ISBN|978-0-12-805203-7}}.</ref><ref>Chi, Sang and Emily Moberg Robinson (2012). ''Voices of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Experience''. ABC-CLIO. Page 54. {{ISBN|978-1-59884-355-2}}.</ref><ref>U.S. Government Printing Office (2010). ''Impact of Increased Minimum Wage of [i.e. On] American Samoa and CNMI. Committee on Energy and Natural Resources''. Page 13. {{ISBN|978-0-16-081372-6}}.</ref>

Pago Pago is the only modern urban center in American Samoa<ref name="Kristen-1999"/>{{rp|29}}<ref>United States. Army. Corps of Engineers. Pacific Ocean Division (1975). ''Water Resources Development by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in American Samoa, 1975''. Division Engineer, U.S. Army Engineer Division, Pacific Ocean, Corps of Engineers. Page 36.</ref> and the main port of American Samoa.<ref>Carter, John (1984). ''Pacific Islands Yearbook 1981''. Pacific Publications Pty, Limited. Page 49. {{ISBN|9780858070493}}.</ref><ref>Encyclopædia Britannica (2003). ''The New Encyclopædia Britannica: Volume 25''. Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. Page 288. {{ISBN|9780852299616}}.</ref><ref>C. Balme (2006). ''Pacific Performances: Theatrically and Cross-Cultural Encounter in the South Seas''. Springer. Page 156. {{ISBN|9780230599536}}.</ref> It is also home to the territorial government, all the industry, and most of the commerce in American Samoa.<ref name="Swaney-1994">Swaney, Deanna (1994). ''Samoa: Western & American Samoa: a Lonely Planet Travel Survival Kit''. Lonely Planet Publications. {{ISBN|9780864422255}}.</ref>{{rp|166}} The Greater Pago Pago Metropolitan Area encompasses several villages strung together along [[Pago Pago Harbor]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.samoanews.com/local-news/raiders-draft-shalom-luani|title = Raiders draft Shalom Luani|date = 30 April 2017}}</ref><ref>Mack, Doug (2017). ''The Not-Quite States of America: Dispatches From the Territories and Other Far-Flung Outposts of the USA''. W.W. Norton & Company. Page 62. {{ISBN|9780393247602}}.</ref> One of the villages is itself named Pago Pago, and in 2010, that village had a population of 3,656. The constituent villages are: [[Utulei]], [[Fagatogo]], [[Malaloa, American Samoa|Malaloa]], Pago Pago, [[Satala, American Samoa|Satala]] and [[Atu'u]]. Fagatogo is the downtown area, referred to as "town", and is home to the legislature, while the executive seat is in Utulei. Also in Fagatogo are the [[American Samoa Fono|Fono]], police department, the Port of Pago Pago, and many shops and hotels. In 2000, the Greater Pago Pago area was home to 8,000 residents;<ref name="Lal, Brij V 2000 Page 101">Lal, Brij V. and Kate Fortune (2000). ''The Pacific Islands: An Encyclopedia, Volume 1''. University of Hawaii Press. Page 101. {{ISBN|9780824822651}}.</ref> by 2010 the population had increased to 15,000.<ref>Sparks, Karen Jacobs (2010). ''Britannica Book of the Year 2010''. Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. Page 509. {{ISBN|9781615353668}}.</ref>

[[Rainmaker Mountain]] (Mount Pioa), located near Pago Pago, contributes to a weather pattern that results in the city having the highest annual rainfall of any harbor in the world.<ref>Atkinson, Brett and Charles Rawlings-Way (2016). ''Lonely Planet Rarotonga, Samoa & Tonga (Travel Guide)''. Lonely Planet. Page 147. {{ISBN|9781786572172}}.</ref><ref name="lonelyplanet.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.lonelyplanet.com/american-samoa/tutuila/attractions/rainmaker-mountain/a/poi-sig/1456093/362248|title=Rainmaker Mountain in Tutuila|website=Lonely Planet|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019004653/https://www.lonelyplanet.com/american-samoa/tutuila/attractions/rainmaker-mountain/a/poi-sig/1456093/362248|archive-date=October 19, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="huffingtonpost">{{cite web|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/05/american-samoa-travel_n_5725106.html|website=huffingtonpost.com|title=American Samoa Is The Empty Slice Of Bliss You've Been Craving|date=5 September 2014|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170910025455/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/05/american-samoa-travel_n_5725106.html|archive-date=September 10, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> It stands protectively over the eastern side of Pago Pago, making the harbor one of the most sheltered deepwater anchorages in the Pacific Ocean.<ref name="Sunia-2009">Sunia, Fofo I.F. (2009). ''A History of American Samoa''. Amerika Samoa Humanities Council. {{ISBN|9781573062992}}.</ref>{{rp|3}}

Historically, the strategic location of Pago Pago Bay played a direct role in the political separation of [[Samoa|Western]] and Eastern Samoa. The initial reason that the U.S. was interested in Tutuila was its desire to use Pago Pago Harbor as a coaling station.<ref name="Shaffer-2000">Shaffer, Robert J. (2000). ''American Samoa: 100 Years Under the United States Flag''. Island Heritage. {{ISBN|9780896103399}}.</ref>{{rp|30–31}} The town has the distinction of being the southernmost U.S. capital, and the only one located in the [[Southern Hemisphere]].

==Etymology and pronunciation==
The origin of the name ''Pago Pago'' is uncertain. One hypothesis suggests that it is derived from the [[Samoan language]], where it is interpreted to mean "place of prayer."<ref name="Pago Pago 2024 Page 2">''The city trip guide for Pago Pago'' (2024). YouGuide Ltd. Page 2. {{ISBN|978-1-83706-279-9}}.</ref>

The letter "g" in [[Samoan language|Samoan]] sounds like "ng"; thus Pago Pago is pronounced "pahngo pahngo."<ref name="Cruise Travel Vol 1980 Page 60">''Cruise Travel Vol. 2, No. 1'' (July 1980). Lakeside Publishing Co. Page 60. {{ISSN|0199-5111}}.</ref><ref name="latimes">{{cite news|url=https://latimes.com/travel/deals/la-trb-buses-uber-pago-pago-20151105-story.html|title=Uber, schmuber. Behold the buses of Pago Pago ...|newspaper=LA Times|date=10 November 2015|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021060505/http://www.latimes.com/travel/deals/la-trb-buses-uber-pago-pago-20151105-story.html|archive-date=October 21, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.frommers.com/destinations/samoa/in-depth/language |title=Language in Samoa &#124; Frommer's |access-date=2019-08-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190814033535/https://www.frommers.com/destinations/samoa/in-depth/language |archive-date=2019-08-14 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>Craig, Robert D. (2004). ''Handbook of Polynesian Mythology''. ABC-CLIO. Page 17. {{ISBN|9781576078945}}.</ref><ref>Fraser, Peter (2010). ''More Curious Than Cautious''. Dog Ear Publishing. Page 122. {{ISBN|9781598587708}}.</ref><ref>Leib, Amos Patten (1972). ''The Many Islands of Polynesia''. Schuster Merchandise. Page 60. {{ISBN|9780684130101}}.</ref>

An early name for Pago Pago was '''Long Bay''' (Samoan: O le Fagaloa), which was a name used by the first permanent inhabitants to settle in the Pago Pago area.<ref name="Shaffer-2000"/>{{rp|26}}<ref>Gray, John Alexander Clinton (1960). ''Amerika Samoa: a history of American Samoa and its United States Naval Administration''. United States Naval Institute. Page 123.</ref><ref name="Gray-1980">Gray, John Alexander Clinton (1980). ''Amerika Samoa''. Arno Press. {{ISBN|9780405130380}}.</ref>{{rp|123}} It was also called O le Maputasi ("The Single Chief's House") in compliment to the Mauga, who lived at [[Gagamoe]] in Pago Pago and was the senior to all the other chiefs in the area.<ref name="Gray-1980"/>{{rp|123}}

For a brief period in the 1830s, Pago Pago was also known as Cuthbert's Harbor, named after British Captain Cuthbert, who was the first European to enter Pago Pago Harbor.<ref>Richards, Rhys (1992). ''Samoa's Forgotten Whaling Heritage: American Whaling in Samoan Waters 1824-1878''. Lithographic Services, Limited. Page 63. {{ISBN|978-0-473-01607-4}}.</ref>

== History ==
{{See also|Tutuila#History}}

Pago Pago was first settled 4,000 years ago.<ref>Stahl, Dean A. and Karen Landen (2001). ''Abbreviations Dictionary''. CRC Press. Page 1451. {{ISBN|9781420036640}}.</ref> The area was initially settled by Polynesian navigators, who established a vibrant community rooted in agriculture, fishing, and the distinct cultural practices of Samoan society.<ref name="Pago Pago 2024 Page 2"/> There is archeological evidence of people living in the Pago Pago Valley at least 1500–1300 years ago.<ref>Sand, Christophe and David J. Addison (2008). ''Recent Advances in the Archaeology of the Fiji/West-Polynesia Region''. Department of Anthropology, Gender and Sociology. [[University of Otago]]. Dunedin: New Zealand. Page 93. {{ISBN|978-0-473-14586-6}}.</ref> The ancient people of Tutuila produced clay pottery known as Samoan Plainware. The majority of these open bowls had plain designs and featured rounded bases. Such pottery has been retrieved from sites in Pago Pago, including at [[Vaipito Valley|Vaipito]]. The production of such pottery ceased approximately 1500 years ago.<ref>Craig, Peter (2009). ''Natural history guide to American Samoa''. [[National Park of American Samoa]]. Page 19. Retrieved on January 20, 2024, from https://www.nps.gov/npsa/learn/education/upload/NatHistGuideAS09.pdf.</ref><ref>Sand, Christophe and David J. Addison (2008). ''Recent Advances in the Archaeology of the Fiji/West-Polynesia Region''. Department of Anthropology, Gender and Sociology. [[University of Otago]]. Dunedin: New Zealand. Page 110. {{ISBN|978-0-473-14586-6}}.</ref> A site in the Vaipito Valley has also revealed more substantial elements, such as constructions made from rocks, like house foundations and terraces (lau mafola).<ref>Rieth, Tim (2008). How Dark Are They? The Samoan Dark Ages, ~1500-1000 BP. Retrieved on January 20, 2024, from https://www.academia.edu/1758604/How_Dark_Are_They_The_Samoan_Dark_Ages_1500-1000_BP.</ref><ref>Sand, Christophe and David J. Addison (2008). ''Recent Advances in the Archaeology of the Fiji/West-Polynesia Region''. Department of Anthropology, Gender and Sociology. [[University of Otago]]. Dunedin: New Zealand. Page 91. {{ISBN|978-0-473-14586-6}}.</ref>

Ceramic findings have been retrieved at Vaipito, an inland area within Pago Pago village. A deposit here is thought to be an old hill-slope below a living area where people threw away their waste. Numerous large ceramic pieces have been retrieved here. The layer with the ceramics dates back to the time between 350 BCE and 10 CE. Another site, Fo’isia, is located approximately 100 meters from Vaipito, at the same elevation inland in Pago Pago. During sewer line construction, the [[American Samoa Power Authority]] noticed many broken pieces of clay pottery. Five dates associated with the ceramics indicate a time range between 370 BCE and 130 CE.<ref>Sand, Christophe and David J. Addison (2008). ''Recent Advances in the Archaeology of the Fiji/West-Polynesia Region''. Department of Anthropology, Gender and Sociology. [[University of Otago]]. Dunedin: New Zealand. Page 103. {{ISBN|978-0-473-14586-6}}.</ref>

===Tongan rule===
The island of Tutuila was part of the [[Tuʻi Tonga Empire]] from the invasion around 950 CE to when Tongans were expelled in [[1250]]. According to Samoan folklore, a warrior from Pago Pago, Fua’au, is associated with driving the Tongans out of Tutuila. According to the legend, Fua’au's fiancé, Tauoloasi’i, was kidnapped and taken to Tonga while sleeping on an exquisite mat known as Moeilefuefue. Filled with anger at the loss of his fiancé and the renowned mat, Fua’au rallied the Tutuilans, encouraging them to revolt against the Tongan rule imposed by [[Lautivunia]].<ref>Pearl, F. B. (2004). The Chronology of Mountain Settlements on Tutuila, American Samoa. [[The Journal of the Polynesian Society]], 113(4), 331–348. Page 334. Retrieved on January 21, 2024, from http://www.jstor.org/stable/20707242.</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://samoanmythology.net/ts-tongan-war-in-tutuila/ | title=TS Tongan War in Tutuila : Samoan Mythology }}</ref>

During the period of Tongan rule, political opponents and defeated Samoan warriors were exiled to Pago Pago. The surrounding settlements effectively functioned as a Samoan penal colony. In response to the oppression, the Samoans, under the leadership of paramount chief [[Malietoa]], eventually revolted against their Tongan rulers.<ref>Todd, Ian (1974). ''Island Realm: A Pacific Panorama''. Angus & Robertson. Page 69. {{ISBN|978-0-207-12761-8}}.</ref> According to one source, it was Chief Fua’autoa of Pago Pago who successfully expelled the Tongans from Pago Pago.<ref>Krämer, Augustin (1994). ''The Samoa Islands: Constitution, pedigrees and traditions''. [[University of Hawaiʻi Press]]. Page 436. {{ISBN|978-0-8248-1633-9}}.</ref>

===Old Pago Pago===
Until 1722, Pago Pago, like several other villages in American Sāmoa such as [[Fagasā, American Samoa|Fagasā]] and [[Vatia, American Samoa|Vatia]], existed as a ridge-top settlement. This upland community, now part of the National Park of American Sāmoa, was strategically situated to provide safety during a period marked by inter-island conflicts involving [[Sāmoa]], [[Fiji]], [[Tahiti]], and [[Tonga]]. The elevated location offered protection from coastal raids, as attackers arriving by boat posed a significant threat to shoreline settlements. By 1772, the majority of families had relocated from the highlands to the coast, establishing new homes near the shoreline. However, oral histories indicate that a few households continued to reside or farm in the upland areas into the late 19th century. Archeological findings at the site of Old Pago Pago include ancient rock walls, building foundations, and graves. Some of these graves are believed to belong to chiefs or ceremonial figures, such as a ''taupou'' (a ceremonial maiden), with legends suggesting one may have been interred in a bonito boat. The remnants of Old Pago Pago are accessible via the [[Mount ‘Alava]] Trailhead at [[Fagasā Pass]], just west of [[Vaipito Valley]].<ref>Linnekin, Jocelyn, Hunt, Terry, Lang, Lang and McCormick, Timothy (November 2006). "Ethnographic Assessment and Overview: National Park of American Samoa". Technical Report 152. Pacific Cooperative Parks Study Unit. [[University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa]].</ref>

When Westerners first visited Tutuila, the Mauga was the leading matai (chief) of Pago Pago.<ref>Lutali, A.P. and William J. Stewart. The Chieftal System in Twentieth Century America: Legal Aspects of the Matai System in the Territory of American Samoa.  4 Ga. J. Int’l & Compar. L. 387 (1974). Page 390. Retrieved on January 20, 2024, from https://digitalcommons.law.uga.edu/gjicl/vol4/iss2/8/.</ref>

===19th century===
[[File:PAGO_PAGO_BAY.png|thumb|right|250px|An 1896 illustration of Pago Pago.]]
[[File:American Naval Base, Samoan Islands.png|thumb|right|250px|From 1878 to 1951, it was a [[Coaling station|coaling]] and repair station for the [[United States Navy|U.S. Navy]], known as [[United States Naval Station Tutuila|US Naval Station Tutuila]].]]
[[File:A glimpse of the isles of the Pacific (1907) (14780577521).jpg|thumb|right|250px|Boatmen in Pago Pago, 1907]]
[[File:Pago_Pago,_Samoa_LOC_15482942648.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Pago Pago as seen in the early 1900s]]
[[File:HHMS_Kaimiloa_anchored_at_Honolulu_Harbor.jpg|thumb|right|250px|HHMS ''[[Kaimiloa]]'' in 1887]]
[[File:Карта_к_статье_«Панго-Панго»._Военная_энциклопедия_Сытина_(Санкт-Петербург,_1911-1915).jpg|thumb|right|250px|1914 map of Pago Pago]]
In 1791, Captain [[Edward Edwards (Royal Navy officer)|Edward Edwards]], leading the British warship HMS ''[[HMS Pandora (1779)|Pandora]]'' in the pursuit of the [[Bounty mutineers]], arrived at Pago Pago Harbor. During their search, the crew stumbled upon a French military uniform belonging to one of [[Jean-François de Galaup, comte de Lapérouse|Pérouse]]’s men, who had been killed at [[Aʻasu, American Samoa|Aʻasu]] in 1787.<ref>U.S. National Park Service (1988). “National Park Feasibility Study: American Samoa”. Page 29. Retrieved on December 23, 2024, from https://npshistory.com/publications/npsa/feasibility-study.pdf</ref><ref>Salmond, Anne (2011). ''Bligh: William Bligh in the South Seas''. [[Penguin Books Limited]]. {{ISBN|978-1-74228-781-2}}.</ref>

In 1824, [[Otto von Kotzebue]] is believed to have discovered the entrance to [[Pago Pago Harbor]], according to one source.<ref>Gilson, Richard Phillip (1970). ''Samoa 1830 to 1900: The Politics of a Multi-cultural Community''. [[Oxford University Press]]. Page 68. {{ISBN|978-0-19-550301-2}}.</ref>

In 1836, the English whaler ''Elizabeth'', captained by Cuthbert, became the first European vessel to enter Pago Pago Harbor. Captain Cuthbert is credited with ‘discovering’ Pago Pago and naming it Cuthbert Harbor.<ref>Knox, Thomas W. (1889). ''The Boy Travellers Australasia''. Page 140.</ref>

In the 1830s, two missionaries were assigned to Tutuila Island: Reverend Archibald W. Murray and his wife to Pago Pago and Reverend Barnden to [[Leone, American Samoa|Leone]]. They landed at [[Fagasā, American Samoa|Fagasa Bay]] and hiked over the hill to the High Chief Mauga in Pago Pago. Mauga welcomed the missionaries and gave them support. RMS {{ship|RMS|Dunottar Castle||2}} later moved to Pago Pago, becoming the second ship to enter [[Pago Pago Harbor]].<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|79–80}} Under the auspices of Maunga, Murray established a wooden residence in Pago Pago, where he endeavored to exemplify Christian living.<ref>Neems, Hugh (2014). ''Beyond The Reef''. Page 19. {{ISBN|978-1-291-73914-5}}.</ref><ref>Gray, John Alexander Clinton (1960). ''Amerika Samoa: A History of American Samoa and its United States Naval Administration''. [[United States Naval Institute]]. Page 38. {{ISBN|978-0-87021-074-7}}.</ref>

In 1834, [[Matthew Hunkin]] arrived in Pago Pago and served as a companion to Archibald Murray, both residing under the patronage of High Chief Mauga. Together, they conducted visits to villages situated along the eastern end of Tutuila. Subsequently, both men relocated to [[Leone, American Samoa|Leone]], where Murray undertook preparations to establish the [[Mission Institute for Pacific Islanders]] at [[Fagalele Boys School|Fagatele]], situated on the outskirts of Leone.<ref>Neems, Hugh (2016). ''A Vision Shared''. George Lambert. Page 45. {{ISBN|978-0-9557282-3-5}}.</ref>

Beginning in 1836, whaling vessels started calling at [[Pago Pago Harbor]], quickly transforming it into a favored stopover. Crews found it to be a secure place to rest, take on supplies, and carry out repairs. As of 1866, whalers no longer visited the Samoan Islands as whaling activities had shifted farther north.<ref>Gilson, Richard Phillip (1970). ''Samoa 1830 to 1900: The Politics of a Multi-cultural Community''. [[Oxford University Press]]. Pages 2, 144 and 183. {{ISBN|978-0-19-550301-2}}.</ref>

In 1837, Tutuila’s chiefs and Captain [[Charles Bethune]] of H.M.S. ''[[HMS Conway (1832)|Conway]]'' reached an agreement on Pago Pago’s first documented commercial port regulations, finalized on December 27 of that year.<ref>Gilson, Richard Phillip (1970). ''Samoa 1830 to 1900: The Politics of a Multi-cultural Community''. [[Oxford University Press]]. Pages 147 and 149. {{ISBN|978-0-19-550301-2}}.</ref><ref>Gray, John Alexander Clinton (1960). ''Amerika Samoa: A History of American Samoa and its United States Naval Administration''. [[United States Naval Institute]]. Pages 40-41. {{ISBN|978-0-87021-074-7}}.</ref>

On May 9, 1838, the [[London Missionary Society]] established a church in Pago Pago.<ref>Sorensen, Stan and Theroux, Joseph. The Samoan Historical Calendar, 1606-1997. Government of American Samoa. Page 113.</ref><ref>Gray, John Alexander Clinton (1960). ''Amerika Samoa: A History of American Samoa and its United States Naval Administration''. [[United States Naval Institute]]. Page 41. {{ISBN|978-0-87021-074-7}}.</ref><ref>Aitaoto, Fuimaono Fini (2021). ''Progress and Developments of the Churches in the Samoan Islands: Early 21St Century''. LifeRich Publishing. Page 96. {{ISBN|978-1-4897-3586-7}}.</ref>

In 1839, the Sāmoan Islands experienced its first recorded [[epidemic]], which resulted in the death of High Chief Mauga of Pago Pago. After his passing, Manuma assumed the title.<ref>Gilson, Richard Phillip (1970). ''Samoa 1830 to 1900: The Politics of a Multi-cultural Community''. [[Oxford University Press]]. Page 112. {{ISBN|978-0-19-550301-2}}.</ref><ref>Gray, John Alexander Clinton (1960). ''Amerika Samoa: A History of American Samoa and its United States Naval Administration''. [[United States Naval Institute]]. Pages 41-42. {{ISBN|978-0-87021-074-7}}.</ref> After the death of his stepbrother Pomale, Manuma provoked controversy within the Christian community by eloping with Pomale's widow. As a result, the ''aiga'' deposed him from his position. Nevertheless, Manuma was later reinstated, and he presided as the Mauga of Pago Pago until his death in 1849.<ref>Gray, John Alexander Clinton (1960). ''Amerika Samoa: A History of American Samoa and its United States Naval Administration''. [[United States Naval Institute]]. Page 43. {{ISBN|978-0-87021-074-7}}.</ref>

As early as 1839, American interest was generated for the Pago Pago area when Commander [[Charles Wilkes]], head of the [[United States Exploring Expedition]], surveyed Pago Pago Harbor and the island. Wilkes' favorable report attracted so much interest that the U.S. Navy began planning a move to the Pago Pago area. During his time in Pago Pago, Wilkes negotiated a set of “Commercial Regulations” with the matais of Pago Pago under the leadership of Paramount Ali'i Mauga. Wilkes' treaty was never ratified, but captains and Samoan leaders operated by it.<ref> Sunia, Fofō Iosefa Fiti (2001). ''Puputoa: Host of Heroes - A record of the history makers in the First Century of American Samoa, 1900-2000''. Suva, Fiji: Oceania Printers. Page 183. {{ISBN|982-9036-02-2}}.</ref> Rumors of possible annexation by Britain or Germany were taken seriously by the U.S., and the U.S. Secretary of State [[Hamilton Fish]] sent Colonel [[Albert Steinberger]] to negotiate with Samoan chiefs on behalf of American interests.<ref>Freeman, Donald B. (2010). ''The Pacific''. Routledge. Page 167. {{ISBN|9780415775724}}.</ref> American interest in Pago Pago was also a result of Tutuila's central position in one of the world's richest whaling grounds.

On August 8, 1844, [[Archibald Wright Murray]] wrote a letter recounting how the Tutuilans, at one point, prepared to vacate their settlements and negotiate with the French while taking refuge in the highlands. Recognizing Pago Pago Harbor as the island’s most significant lure for European powers, they planned to cede it to [[France]] in return for a pledge safeguarding Tutuila’s independence.<ref>Gilson, Richard Phillip (1970). ''Samoa 1830 to 1900: The Politics of a Multi-cultural Community''. [[Oxford University Press]]. Page 125. {{ISBN|978-0-19-550301-2}}.</ref>

In 1871, the local [[Steamship|steamer]] business of W. H. Webb required coal and he sent Captain E. Wakeman to Samoa in order to evaluate the suitability of Pago Pago as a coaling station. Wakeman approved the harbor and alerted the [[U.S. Navy]] about [[German Empire|Germany]]'s intent to take over the area. The U.S. Navy responded a few months later by dispatching Commander [[Richard Meade (equestrian)|Richard Meade]] from [[Honolulu]], Hawaii to assess Pago Pago's suitability as a naval station. Meade arrived in Pago Pago on {{USS|Narragansett|1859|6}} and made a treaty with the Mauga for the exclusive use of the harbor and a set of commercial regulations to govern the trading and shipping in Pago Pago. He also purchased land for a new naval station.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|137–138}} High Chief Mauga of Pago Pago stated his wish for the village to be recognized as Tutuila Island’s capital.<ref>Gilson, Richard Phillip (1970). ''Samoa 1830 to 1900: The Politics of a Multi-cultural Community''. [[Oxford University Press]]. Page 279. {{ISBN|978-0-19-550301-2}}.</ref>

In 1872, the chief of Pago Pago signed a treaty with the U.S., giving the American government considerable influence on the island.<ref>Levi, Werner (1947). ''American-Australian Relations''. University of Minnesota Press. Page 73. {{ISBN|9780816658152}}.</ref> It was acquired by the United States through a treaty in 1877.<ref>Dixon, Joe C. (1980). ''The American Military and the Far East''. Diane Publishing. Page 139. {{ISBN|9781428993679}}.</ref> One year after the naval base was built at [[Pearl Harbor]] in 1887, the U.S. government established a naval station in Pago Pago.<ref>Stanley, George Edwards (2005). ''The Era of Reconstruction and Expansion (1865–1900)''. Gareth Stevens. Page 36. {{ISBN|9780836858273}}.</ref> It was primarily used as a fueling station for both naval- and commercial ships.<ref>Pafford, John (2013). ''The Forgotten Conservative: Rediscovering Grover Cleveland''. Regnery Publishing. Page 61. {{ISBN|9781621570554}}.</ref>

During the [[Tutuila War]] of 1877, all buildings in Pago Pago were destroyed. The war emerged during a tumultuous period, where Samoans were sharply divided over the future direction of their government. In response to the growing threat posed by the Puletua — a rising opposition faction — the Samoan leadership based in [[Apia]] sent [[Le Mamea Makalau|Mamea]] to Washington, D.C. to negotiate an agreement with the U.S. While Mamea was abroad, the Puletua launched a rebellion, escalating the situation into full-scale war in Tutuila. To regain control, government forces stationed in [[Leone, American Samoa|Leone]] advanced toward Pago Pago, where the rebel leader Mauga was headquartered. The troops burned every building in Pago Pago and pursued Mauga along with several hundred followers to [[Aunuʻu, American Samoa|Aunu’u Island]]. The Puletua faction on Tutuila, led by the former U.S. Consul to [[Kingdom of Samoa|Sāmoa]], S. S. Foster, who had moved to Pago Pago after his dismissal, and Mauga, found Aunu’u incapable of supporting their forces. Consequently, they returned to Tutuila where they soon surrendered.<ref>Gray, John Alexander Clinton (1960). ''Amerika Samoa: A History of American Samoa and its United States Naval Administration''. [[United States Naval Institute]]. Page 65. {{ISBN|978-0-87021-074-7}}.</ref><ref>Pearl, Frederic and Sandy Loiseau-Vonruff (2007). “Father Julien Vidal and the Social Transformation of a Small Polynesian Village (1787–1930): Historical Archaeology at Massacre Bay, American Samoa”. [[International Journal of Historical Archaeology]]. 11(1): pages 37-39. ISSN 1092-7697.</ref>

In 1878, the U.S. Navy first established a coaling station, right outside [[Fagatogo]]. The United States Navy later bought land east of Fagatogo and on Goat Island, an adjacent peninsula. Sufficient land was obtained in 1898 and the construction of [[United States Naval Station Tutuila]] was completed in 1902. The station commander doubled as [[Governor of American Samoa|American Samoa's Governor]] from 1899 to 1905, when the station commandant was designated Naval Governor of American Samoa. [[American Samoa Fono|The Fono]] (legislature) served as an advisory council to the governor.<ref name="Rottman-2002">Rottman, Gordon L. (2002). ''World War II Pacific Island Guide: A Geo-military Study''. Greenwood Publishing Group. {{ISBN|9780313313950}}.</ref>{{rp|84–85}}

Despite the Samoan Islands being a part of the United States, the [[United Kingdom]] and Germany maintained a strong naval presence in the area. Twice between 1880 and 1900, the U.S. Navy came close to taking part in a shooting war while its only true interest was the establishment of a coaling station in Pago Pago. The U.S. quietly purchased land around the harbor for the construction of the naval station. It rented land on Fagatogo Beach for $10/month in order to store the coal. Admiral [[Lewis Kimberly]] was ordered to Pago Pago while in [[Apia]] waiting for transportation home after the hurricane of 1889. In Pago Pago, he selected a site for the new coaling station and naval base. In June 1890, the [[U.S. Congress]] passed an appropriation of $100,000 for the purpose of permanently establishing a station for the naval and commercial marine. With the appropriation, the [[United States State Department|State Department]] sent Consul [[Harold M. Sewall]] from Apia to Pago Pago to buy six tracts of land for the project. Some parts were previously owned by the Polynesian Land Company, while other tracts were still owned by Samoan families. For the defense of the harbor in event of a naval war, the U.S. Navy wanted to purchase headlands and mountainsides above the Lepua Catholic Church which directly faced the harbor's entrance.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|138–139}}

In 1883, a conflict began at [[Pago Pago Bay]] between Mauga Lei and Mauga Manuma. The dispute revolved around the entitlement to the title "Mauga". Mauga Lei's actions led to widespread dissatisfaction among the residents of [[Fagatogo, American Samoa|Fagatogo]] and [[Aua, American Samoa|Aua]], culminating in the [[Taua o Sa’ousoali'i]] conflict. The residents of [[Fagasā, American Samoa|Fagasā]] joined Pago Pago village in an effort to overthrow Mauga Lei and support Manuma. The uprising forced Mauga Lei's forces to [[Aunuʻu, American Samoa|Aunuʻu]]. Mauga Lei, who had a close friendship with King [[Malietoa Laupepa]], secured intervention through two warships to resolve the hostilities. Intervention came in the form of a peace mission led by HMS ''[[HMS Miranda (1879)|Miranda]]'', under Captain [[Sir William Acland, 2nd Baronet|William A. Dyke Acland]], and supported by the German gunboat SMS ''[[SMS Hyäne (1878)|Hyäne]]''. Both Mauga Lei and Mauga Manuma were summoned to a peace conference aboard the HMS ''Miranda''. Both initially resisted boarding the ship but eventually relented after diplomatic pressure. The agreement that followed emphasized reconciliation and required both parties to disarm publicly.<ref>Churchward, William Brown (1887). ''My Consulate in Samoa: A Record of Four Years' Sojourn in the Navigators Islands, with Personal Experiences of King Malietoa Laupepa, His Country and His Men''. [[Richard Bentley and Son]]. Pages 335-346.</ref><ref>Ryan, James and Joan Schwartz (2021). ''Picturing Place: Photography and the Geographical Imagination''. [[Taylor & Francis]]. {{ISBN|978-1-000-54878-5}}.</ref> The conflict led to the deaths of 12 people.<ref>Edwards, Elizabeth (2021). ''Raw Histories: Photographs, Anthropology and Museums''. [[Taylor & Francis]]. {{ISBN|978-1-000-18129-6}}.</ref>

In 1887, the ''[[Kaimiloa]]'', a 171-ton steamer and the only warship in the fleet of [[King Kalākaua]] of [[Hawai‘i]], was sent on a diplomatic mission to the Sāmoan Islands as part of the Hawaiian monarch's initiative to create a united Polynesian kingdom. The journey included visits to several key locations, including Pago Pago, which was an important trading hub at the time. Historical accounts document the trade of the Kaimiloa's cannons to the Samoans, with at least one of these cannons now preserved and on display at the [[Jean P. Haydon Museum]].<ref>Chappell, David A. (2016). ''Double Ghosts: Oceanian Voyagers on Euroamerican Ships''. [[Taylor & Francis]]. {{ISBN|978-1-315-47911-8}}.</ref><ref>Cook, Kealani (2016). ''Return to Kahiki: Native Hawaiians in Oceania''. [[Cambridge University Press]]. Page 95. {{ISBN|978-1-107-19589-9}}.</ref>

In 1889, [[Robert Louis Stevenson]] paid a visit to Pago Pago.<ref>{{cite encyclopedia|title=Robert Louis Stevenson|encyclopedia=Encyclopedia Britannica|date=5 February 2019}}</ref>

On May 27, 1893, a branch of the [[The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints|LDS Church]] was established in Pago Pago. The church had first arrived on the island in 1863 and became formally organized on Tutuila in 1888.<ref>Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. ''Family and Church History Department (2005). Deseret News 2006 Church Almanac: Joseph’s Journeys''. [[Deseret Book Company]]. Page 285. {{ISBN|978-1-59038-556-2}}.</ref>

In 1898, a [[California]]-based construction and engineering firm was contracted to build the coal depot. The naval engineer in charge was W. I. Chambers. On April 30, 1899, Commander [[Benjamin Franklin Tilley]] sailed from [[Norfolk, Virginia]] on {{USS|Abarenda|AC-13|6}} with a cargo of coal and steel for the project. The U.S. Navy was the only American agency present in the area, and it was made responsible for administering the new territory.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|139–140}}

In 1899, Pago Pago became the [[administrative capital]] of American Samoa.<ref name="britannica.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Pago-Pago|title=Pago Pago {{pipe}} American Samoa|website=Britannica.com|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019061343/https://www.britannica.com/place/Pago-Pago|archive-date=October 19, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>Carpenter, Allan (1993). ''Facts about the Cities''. Wilson. Page 11. {{ISBN|9780924208003}}.</ref> Pago Pago and Tutuila Island were formally part of the [[Kingdom of Samoa]] until 1899, when they became U.S. territory.<ref>Lavatai, Sanele Faasua (2018). ''The Ifoga Ritual in Samoa in Anthropological and in Biblical Perspectives''. Missionshilfe Verlag. Page 116. {{ISBN|978-3-946426-06-6}}.</ref><ref>Tu’u’u, Misilugi Tulifau Tofaeono (2002). ''History of Samoa Islands: Supremacy & Legacy of the Malietoa''. Tuga'ula Publication. Page 427. {{ISBN|978-0-9582199-1-4}}.</ref>

On April 17, 1900, the first [[American flag]] was raised at Sogelau Hill above the site of the new wharf and coaling facilities in Fagatogo. For the ceremony, a group of invitees from [[Apia]] arrived with German Governor Heinrich Solf onboard {{SMS|Cormoran|1892|6}}. USS ''Abarenda'', home of B. F. Tilley and his new government, was in the harbor. American consul Luther W. Osborn arrived from Apia, and many spectators arrived from American Samoa villages and other countries. Tilley was the master of ceremonies and began the program by reading the Proclamation of the President of the United States, which asserted American sovereignty over the islands. Next was the reading of the Order of the Secretary of the Navy, followed by chiefs who read the [[Deed of Cession of Tutuila|Deed of Cession]], which they had written and signed. Before raising the flag, reverend E. V. Cooper of the [[London Missionary Society]] (LMS) and reverend Father Meinaidier of the Roman Catholic Mission offered prayers. Students from the LMS school in [[Fagalele Boys School|Fagalele]] sang the national anthem. The two ships, ''Comoran'' and ''Abarenda'', fired the national salutes.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|145–146}}<ref name="Shaffer-2000"/>{{rp|111}} The [[Deed of Cession of Tutuila]] and [[Aunu'u]] Islands was signed on [[Gagamoe]], and formalized the relationship between the U.S. and American Samoa. Gagamoe is an area in Pago Pago which is the Mauga family's communal and sacred land.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.asbar.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1826:5ASR3d254&catid=85 |title=American Samoa Bar Association |access-date=2019-09-08 |archive-date=2020-01-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200110180207/http://www.asbar.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1826:5ASR3d254&catid=85 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>Stoler, Ann Laura and Willy Brandt (2006). ''Haunted by Empire: Geographies of Intimacy in North American History''. Duke University Press. Page 88. {{ISBN|9780822337249}}.</ref>

===20th century===
[[File:SADIE THOMPSON BUILDING.jpg|thumb|right|250px|English author [[W. Somerset Maugham]] stayed at [[Sadie Thompson Inn]] during his 6-week visit to Pago Pago in 1916.]]
[[File:Blunts Point Battery - American Samoa - 1986.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Guns were emplaced at [[Blunts Point Battery|Blunts]] and [[Breakers Point Naval Guns|Breakers Points]] in 1940–42, covering Pago Pago Harbor.]]
[[File:World_War_II_encampments_on_American_Samoa.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Remains of a World War II encampment above [[Utulei, American Samoa|Utulei]].]]
[[File:American_Samoa_tramway_remains.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The historic tramway on the World War II Heritage Trail]]
At the beginning of the 20th century, Pago Pago became American Samoa's [[port of entry]].<ref name="Gray-1980"/>{{rp|179}}

On April 11, 1904, the first public school in American Samoa, called ''Fagatogo'', was established in the [[Naval Station Tutuila|naval station]] area. The school had two teachers and forty students at the time of its opening.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.amsamoa.edu/files/archive/ITTProgram.pdf |title=American Samoa Community College (ASCC) Trades & Technology Program (TT&P): "Assessment & Strategic Vision Report" |publisher=American Samoa Community College |page=7 |date=17 April 2005 |access-date=28 November 2022}}</ref>

From December 16, 1916, to January 30, 1917, English author [[W. Somerset Maugham]] and his secretary and lover, [[Gerald Haxton]], visited Pago Pago on their way from [[Hawai'i]] to [[Tahiti]]. Also on board the ship was a passenger named Miss Sadie Thompson, who had been evicted from Hawaii for prostitution. She was later the main character in the popular short story, ''[[Rain (short story)|Rain]]'' (1921), a story of a prostitute arriving in Pago Pago.<ref name="nps">{{cite web|url=https://npgallery.nps.gov/pdfhost/docs/NRHP/Text/03000582.pdf|date=February 2, 2009|title=NFS Form 10-900-a OMB Approval No. 1024-0018 {{pipe}} Thompson, Sadie, Building, Eastern AS|publisher=National Register of Historic Places|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228152712/https://npgallery.nps.gov/pdfhost/docs/NRHP/Text/03000582.pdf|archive-date=February 28, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Delayed because of a quarantine inspection, they checked into what is now known as [[Sadie Thompson Inn]]. Maugham also met an American sailor here, who later appeared as the title character in another short story, ''Red'' (1921).<ref name="britannica.com"/><ref>Rogal, Samuel J. (1997). ''A William Somerset Maugham Encyclopedia. Greenwood Publishing Group''. Page 244. {{ISBN|9780313299162}}.</ref> The Sadie Thompson Inn was added to the [[U.S. National Register of Historic Places]] in 2003.

In 1920, [[Mauga Moi Moi]], the highest ranking chief of Pago Pago, initiated the [[Mau movement in American Samoa|Mau movement]].<ref>Lal, Brij V. and Kate Fortune (2000). ''The Pacific Islands: An Encyclopedia''. [[University of Hawai'i Press]]. Page 101. {{ISBN|978-0-8248-2265-1}}.</ref>

====First and Second World Wars====
In May 1917, when the U.S. joined [[World War I]], two German ships anchoring in Pago Pago were seized. The 10,000-ton ''Elsass'' was towed to Honolulu and turned over to the U.S. Navy, while its smaller [[gunboat]], ''Solf'', was refitted in Pago Pago and given the name {{USS|Samoa}}. Wireless messaging between Pago Pago and Hawaii was routed through [[Fiji]]. As the British censored all messages through Fiji, the Navy quickly upgraded the facilities to go directly between Pago Pago and Honolulu.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|188}}

On January 10, 1938, the flying boat ''[[Samoan Clipper]]'' exploded just after leaving Pago Pago Harbor. Pilot [[Edwin Musick]] and his crew of six died in the accident.<ref>Stanley, David (1989). ''South Pacific Handbook''. [[Moon Publications]]. Page 358. {{ISBN|978-0-918373-29-8}}.</ref><ref>Cashman, Sean (1989). ''America in the Twenties and Thirties: The Olympian Age of Franklin Delano Roosevelt''. [[NYU Press]]. Page 524. {{ISBN|978-0-8147-7208-9}}.</ref>

Pago Pago was a vital naval base for the U.S. during [[World War II]].<ref>Labor, Earle (2013). ''Jack London: An American Life''. Farrar, Straus and Giroux. Page 272. {{ISBN|9781466863163}}.</ref> Limited improvements at the naval station took place in the summer of 1940, which included a [[United States Marine Corps|Marine Corps]] airfield at [[Tafuna, American Samoa|Tafuna]]. The new airfield was partly operational by April 1942, and fully operational by June. On March 15, 1941, the Marine Corps' 7th Defense Battalion arrived in Pago Pago and was the first Fleet Marine Force unit to serve in the [[South Pacific Ocean]]. It was also the first such unit to be deployed in defense of an American island. Guns were emplaced at [[Blunts Point Battery|Blunts]] and [[Breakers Point Naval Guns|Breakers Points]], covering Pago Pago Harbor. It trained the only [[United States Marine Corps Reserve|Marine reserve]] unit to serve on active duty during World War II, namely the 1st Samoan Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. The battalion mobilized after the attack on Pearl Harbor and remained active until January 1944.<ref name="Rottman-2002"/>{{rp|85–86}}

In January 1942 Pago Pago Harbor was shelled by a [[Empire of Japan|Japanese]] [[submarine]], but this was the only battle action on the islands during World War II.<ref>Rill, James C. (2003). ''A Narrative History of the 1st Battalion, 11th Marines During the Early History and Deployment of the 1st Marine Division, 1940–43''. Merriam Press. Page 32. {{ISBN|9781576383179}}.</ref> On January 20, 1942, the 2nd Marine Brigade arrived in Pago Pago with about 5,000 men and various supplies of weaponry, including cannons and tanks.<ref>Kennedy, Joseph (2009). ''The Tropical Frontier: America's South Sea Colony''. University of Hawaii Press. Page 207. {{ISBN|9780980033151}}.</ref>

On August 24, 1943, Pago Pago and the [[U.S. Naval Station Tutuila Historic District|U.S. Naval Station]] was visited by First Lady [[Eleanor Roosevelt]].<ref name="usembassy">{{cite web|url=http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2012/07/eleanor-roosevelt-in-the-pacific/|title=David Huebner - US Ambassador to New Zealand|access-date=November 28, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130227065234/http://blogs.newzealand.usembassy.gov/ambassador/2012/07/eleanor-roosevelt-in-the-pacific/|archive-date=February 27, 2013}}</ref><ref name="samoanews">{{cite web |url=http://samoanews.com/local-news/dedication-va-clinic-centerpiece-vp-pence-visit-amsam |website=samoanews.com |title=Dedication of VA Clinic centerpiece of VP Pence visit to AmSam |date=19 April 2017 |access-date=November 28, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171026213828/http://samoanews.com/local-news/dedication-va-clinic-centerpiece-vp-pence-visit-amsam |archive-date=October 26, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

On October 7, 1949, the USS ''[[USS Chehalis (AOG-48)|Chehalis]]'', a World War II oil and gas tanker, exploded and sank in Pago Pago Harbor. It remains the only shipwreck from that era found in the harbor and lies just over 100 feet beneath the current fuel dock. Measuring 90 meters in length, the wreck continues to be considered a source of pollution impacting the water quality as of 2002.<ref>Wright, Dawn J. (2002). ''Undersea with GIS''. [[ESRI Press]]. Page 48. {{ISBN|978-1-58948-016-2}}.</ref><ref>https://npshistory.com/publications/npsa/brochures/naval-ww2-history.pdf</ref>

====1960s====
Pago Pago was an important location for [[NASA]]'s [[Apollo program]] from 1961 to 1972. [[Apollo 10]], [[Apollo 11]], [[Apollo 12]], [[Apollo 13]], [[Apollo 14]] and [[Apollo 17]] landed by Tutuila Island, and the crew flew from Pago Pago to Honolulu on their way back to the mainland.<ref name="tripod">{{cite web|url=http://members.tripod.com/~Tavita_Herdrich/apollosummary.html|website=members.tripod.com|title=Apollo At American Samoa Summary|access-date=November 28, 2017}}</ref><ref name="nasa">{{cite web|url=http://history.nasa.gov/alsj/a17/a17steen.html|website=history.nasa.gov|title=Kevin Steen|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226001536/https://history.nasa.gov/alsj/a17/a17steen.html|archive-date=December 26, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> At [[Jean P. Haydon Museum]] are displays of an [[Flag of American Samoa|American Samoa-flag]] brought to the Moon in 1969 by Apollo 11, as well as moonstones, all given as a gift to American Samoa by President [[Richard Nixon]] following the return of the Apollo Moon missions.<ref name="fodors">{{cite web|url=http://www.fodors.com/world/australia-and-the-pacific/american-samoa/things-to-do/sights/reviews/jean-p-haydon-museum-584573|title=Jean P. Haydon Museum Review {{pipe}} Fodor's Travel|website=fodors.com|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023230753/http://www.fodors.com/world/australia-and-the-pacific/american-samoa/things-to-do/sights/reviews/jean-p-haydon-museum-584573|archive-date=October 23, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> The museum was officially opened in October 1971 with an opening featuring [[Margaret Mead]] as a guest speaker. The [[National Endowment for the Arts]] provided a start-up grant. The most valuable asset was an exquisite mat reputed to be the ''Fala o Futa'', the first important fine mat of Samoa, donated by Senate President HC Salanoa S.P. Aumoeualogo. The other major contribution was a cannon which came off ''[[Kaimiloa]]'', a 171-ton steamer and the only warship in the fleet of [[King Kalakaua]] of Hawai'i. The Hawaiian king sent the ship to the Samoan Islands in an effort at creating a Polynesian kingdom.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|313}}

In 1965, the Tramway at [[Mount {{okina}}Alava]] was constructed as access to the TV transmission equipment on the mountain. It ran from atop Solo Hill at the end of the Togotogo Ridge above [[Utulei, American Samoa|Utulei]]. It ascended {{convert|1.1|mi|abbr=off|sp=us}} across [[Pago Pago Harbor]] and landed at the {{convert|1598|ft|abbr=on}} Mount {{okina}}Alava. It was one of the world's longest single-span cablecar routes.<ref name="Swaney-1994"/>{{rp|167}}<ref name="Stanley-2004">Stanley, David (2004). ''Moon Handbooks South Pacific''. David Stanley. {{ISBN|9781566914116}}.</ref>{{rp|475}}<ref>Dalton, Bill and David Stanley (1979). ''South Pacific Handbook''. David Stanley. Page 73. {{ISBN|9780804813136}}.</ref>

President [[Lyndon B. Johnson]] and First Lady [[Lady Bird Johnson]] visited Pago Pago on October 18, 1966. Johnson remains the only U.S. president to have visited American Samoa. [[Lyndon B. Johnson Tropical Medical Center]] was named in honor of the president.<ref name="ucsb">{{cite web|url=http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=27945|website=presidency.ucsb.edu|title=Lyndon B. Johnson: Remarks Upon Arrival at Tafuna International Airport, Pago Pago, American Samoa.|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525021435/http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=27945|archive-date=May 25, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Landing ahead of the [[Air Force One]] was the press plane that carried seventy news reporters. The two-hour visit was televised throughout the country and the world. Governor H. Rex Lee and traditional leaders crammed ceremonies, entertainment, a brief tour, and a school dedication: the Manulele Tausala, Lady Bird Johnson School. The President gave a speech where he laid out the American policy for its lone South Pacific territory. The President and First Lady returned to American Samoa in December 1966, on their way to Prime Minister's [[Harold Holt]]'s funeral in Australia. Governor [[Owen Aspinall]] offered a quiet welcome as the [[White House]] asked for there to be no ceremonies during the visit. Around 3,000 spectators went to the [[Pago Pago International Airport]] to see the President.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|292}}

In May 1967, Governor [[H. Rex Lee]] signed a law making Pago Pago a [[duty-free]] port. Excise taxes, however, were imposed on automobiles, firearms, luxury goods, and auto parts. The excise tax was heaviest on secondhand motor vehicles and machinery. It was nicknamed the "Junk Bill" as it intended to keep out old used merchandise.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|285}}

====1970s and later====
In November 1970, [[Pope Paul VI]] visited Pago Pago on his way to Australia.<ref>Cassidy, Edward Idris (2009). ''My Years in Vatican Service''. Paulist Press. Page 52. {{ISBN|9780809145935}}.</ref><ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|292}}

Shortly after Christmas in 1970, a village fire destroyed the legislative chambers and adjacent facilities. It was decided that the new Legislature would be placed permanently in the center of the township of Fagatogo, the traditional Malae o le Talu, at a cost of $500,000. A triple celebration in October 1973 marked the dedication of the new Fono compound, its 25th anniversary, and the holding in Pago Pago of the Pacific Conference of Legislators. First Lady Lillian "Lily" Lee unveiled the official [[seal of American Samoa]] carved on ''ifelele'' by master wood-carver [[Sven Ortquist]], which was mounted in front of the new Fono. The Arts Council Choir sang the territorial anthem, "Amerika Samoa", as composer HC [[Napoleon Andrew Tuiteleleapaga|Tuiteleleapaga Napoleone]] conducted. The territorial bird, lupe, and flower, mosooi, were officially announced during the same ceremony.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|302}}
[[File:Pago_Pago_Airport_tarmac.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Pago Pago International Airport]]
[[File:The_2007_Annual_Pago_Pago_Championship_Busfest_-_panoramio.jpg|thumb|right|250px|2007 Annual Pago Pago Championship Busfest]]
Shipping in and out of Pago Pago experienced an economic boom from 1970 to 1974. Flights into Pago Pago International Airport continued to increase in the early 1970s, with the Office of Tourism reporting 40,000 visitors and calling for the construction of additional hotels. Service to American Samoa by air was offered by [[Pan American World Airways|Pan American]] (four weekly flights), [[Air New Zealand]] (four weekly flights), and [[Union de Transports Aériens|UTA]] (four weekly flights). From 1974 to 1975, records show that 78,000 passengers moved by air between the two Samoas and that [[Polynesian Airlines]] collected $1.8 million from the route.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|311}} Pago Pago Harbor became a popular stop for yachts in the early 1970s.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|312}}

In 1972, Army Sp. 4 Fiatele Taulago Te{{okina}}o was killed in [[Vietnam War|Vietnam]] and his body was flown home to Pago Pago where his many awards were presented to his parents. The first Army Reserve Center was named after him.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|316}} Two additional American Samoans were killed in the Vietnam War, Cpl. Lane Fatutoa Levi and LCpl. Fagatoele Lokeni in 1970 and 1968, respectively.<ref>{{Cite web|title=THE WALL OF FACES|url=https://www.vvmf.org/wall-of-faces-search/|access-date=2020-10-22|website=Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund|language=en-US}}</ref>

In 1972, seven historical buildings in American Samoa were entered in the [[National Register of Historic Places]] of the United States, including [[Navy Building 38]], [[Jean P. Haydon Museum]], and the [[Government House (American Samoa)|Government House]].<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|313}}

In 1985, the decision was made to privatize [[Ronald Reagan Shipyard]]. [[Southwest Marine]], a company from [[San Diego, California]], was selected to operate the shipyard under lease from the American Samoa Government.<ref name="ronaldreaganshipyard.com">{{cite web|url=https://ronaldreaganshipyard.com/about/history/|title=HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN SAMOA SHIPYARD|website=Ronald Reagan Shipyard|access-date=2019-07-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190723040817/https://ronaldreaganshipyard.com/about/history/|archive-date=2019-07-23|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 1986, the First Invitational Canoe Race was held in Pago Pago.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|339}}

On September 25, 1991, downtown Fagatogo received a new landmark: the [[Samoa News]] Building. The [[Executive Office Building (American Samoa)|Executive Office Building]] in [[Utulei]] was dedicated on October 11, 1991.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|357}}

In 1999, the first international conference on the [[Samoan language]] was held in Pago Pago.<ref>Craig, Robert D. (2011). ''Historical Dictionary of Polynesia''. Scarecrow Press. Page xxx. {{ISBN|978-0-8108-6772-7}}.</ref>

===21st century===
[[File:Joe_Biden_visits_American_Samoa_%282016-07-15%29_02.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Then-Vice President [[Joe Biden]] visiting Pago Pago in 2016.]]
Since 2000, [[American Samoa Department of Education]] through its school athletic program is the host of the East & West High School All-Star Football Game. It has been held at the field in [[Gagamoe]] in Pago Pago.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.samoanews.com/samoa-bowl-ix-live-experience-through-samoa-bowl|title = Samoa Bowl IX: Live the experience through the Samoa Bowl!|date = 19 December 2011}}</ref>

In 2008, the tenth [[Festival of Pacific Arts]] was held in Pago Pago, drawing 2,500 participants from 27 countries.<ref>Craig, Robert D. (2011). ''Historical Dictionary of Polynesia''. Scarecrow Press. Pages 88-89. {{ISBN|978-0-8108-6772-7}}.</ref> Also in 2008, [[Asuega Fa’amamata]], one of the few female chiefs in the territory, was elected by Pago Pago as its new senator, becoming the sole female legislator in the [[American Samoa Fono]].<ref>Craig, Robert D. (2011). ''Historical Dictionary of Polynesia''. Scarecrow Press. Page 25. {{ISBN|978-0-8108-6772-7}}.</ref>

In 2010, [[Tri Marine Group]], the world's largest supplier of fish, purchased the plant assets of ''Samoa Packing'' and committed $34 million for a state-of-the-art tuna packing facility.<ref name="ronaldreaganshipyard.com"/>

[[Mike Pence]] was the third sitting U.S. vice president to visit American Samoa<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/329073/us-vice-president-to-dedicate-american-samoa-clinic-to-'eni’ |title=US Vice-President to dedicate American Samoa clinic to 'Eni' |publisher=RNZ |date=19 April 2017 |access-date=3 September 2022}}</ref> when he made a stopover in Pago Pago in April 2017.<ref name="politico">{{cite web|url=http://www.politico.com/story/2017/04/24/mike-pence-return-home-hawaii-237510|title=Pence cutting Pacific trip short|website=POLITICO|date=24 April 2017 |access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020083812/http://www.politico.com/story/2017/04/24/mike-pence-return-home-hawaii-237510|archive-date=October 20, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> He addressed 200 soldiers here during his refueling stop.<ref name="cbsnews">{{cite web|url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/mike-pence-cuts-short-his-stop-in-hawaii-to-deal-with-domestic-issues/|title=Mike Pence cuts short his stop in Hawaii to deal with domestic issues|website=CBS News|date=24 April 2017 |access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020083729/https://www.cbsnews.com/news/mike-pence-cuts-short-his-stop-in-hawaii-to-deal-with-domestic-issues/|archive-date=October 20, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> U.S. Secretary of State [[Rex Tillerson]] visited town on June 3, 2017.<ref name="americansamoa">{{cite web|url=https://www.americansamoa.gov/vp?id=98&option=com_content&view=article|website=americansamoa.gov|title=american samoa|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020033335/https://www.americansamoa.gov/vp?id=98&option=com_content&view=article|archive-date=October 20, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

In August 2017, the [[American Samoa Fono|Fono]] building in [[Fagatogo]] was demolished.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.samoanews.com/local-news/fono-coming-down |title=Fono coming down |date=28 August 2017 |access-date=2019-07-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190724091438/http://www.samoanews.com/local-news/fono-coming-down |archive-date=2019-07-24 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.samoanews.com/local-news/just-asking%E2%80%A6-when-will-there-be-new-fono-building |title=JUST ASKING… when will there be a new Fono building? &#124; American Samoa &#124; Samoa News |access-date=2019-07-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181220170604/http://www.samoanews.com/local-news/just-asking%E2%80%A6-when-will-there-be-new-fono-building |archive-date=2018-12-20 |url-status=live }}</ref>

In 2018, four months of repair took place at the ASG-owned [[Ronald Reagan Shipyard]] in [[Satala, American Samoa|Satala]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.samoanews.com/local-news/four-month-repair-work-underway-satala-shipyard|title=Four-month repair work underway at the Satala Shipyard|website=Samoa News|date=7 December 2018|access-date=2019-07-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190723040820/http://www.samoanews.com/local-news/four-month-repair-work-underway-satala-shipyard|archive-date=2019-07-23|url-status=live}}</ref>

A North Korean cargo ship seized by the United States arrived in Pago Pago for inspections in 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2019/05/13/north-korea-cargo-ship-inspection-american-samoa/1186415001/|title=North Korean cargo ship seized by US arrives in American Samoa for inspection by American authorities|website=USA Today|access-date=2019-07-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190717201800/https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2019/05/13/north-korea-cargo-ship-inspection-american-samoa/1186415001/|archive-date=2019-07-17|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== 2009 tsunami ====
{{Main|2009 Samoa earthquake and tsunami}}
[[File:FBI tsunami video - Pago Pago parking lot - end.ogv|thumb|right|250px|Security camera footage of the [[2009 Samoa earthquake and tsunami|2009 tsunami]] surging through a parking lot]]
On September 29, 2009, an [[2009 Samoa earthquake and tsunami|earthquake]] struck in the [[Oceania|South Pacific]], near [[Samoa]] and [[American Samoa]], sending a [[tsunami]] into Pago Pago and surrounding areas. The tsunami caused moderate to severe damage to villages, buildings and vehicles and caused 34 deaths and hundreds of injuries.<ref name="google.com">[https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gcQYRcaxXR6t5UcX_WlbD_qBAmQwD9B16T6G0 Article] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091003024511/https://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gcQYRcaxXR6t5UcX_WlbD_qBAmQwD9B16T6G0 |date=2009-10-03 }} on [[Google News]]</ref><ref>"[https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna33075304 Disaster aid flows to tsunami-hit Samoas] ". [[MSNBC]].</ref> It was an 8.3 magnitude earthquake which caused {{convert|5|ft|m|adj=on}} waves to hit the city. It caused major flooding and damaged numerous buildings. A local power plant was disabled, 241 homes were destroyed, and 308 homes had major damage. Shortly after the earthquake, President [[Barack Obama]] issued a federal disaster declaration, which authorized funds for individual assistance (IA), such as temporary housing.<ref>Jadacki, Matt (2011). ''American Samoa 2009 Earthquake and Tsunami: After-Action Report''. DIANE Publishing. Page 2. {{ISBN|9781437942835}}.</ref>

The largest wave hit Pago Pago at 6:13&nbsp;pm local time, with an amplitude of {{convert|6.5|ft|m}}.<ref>Dunbar, Paula K. (2015). ''Pacific Tsunami Warning System: A Half Century of Protecting the Pacific, 1965–2015''. Government Printing Office. Page 56. {{ISBN|9780996257909}}.</ref>

==Geography==
[[File:NPS national-park-American-Samoa-visitor-center-area-map.jpg|thumb|left|[[National Park Service|NPS]] map of Pago Pago]]
[[File:PagoPago.jpg|thumb|right|250px|[[Pago Pago Harbor]] is the world's largest natural deep harbor.<ref>Furuto, Sharlene B.C.L. (2013). ''Social Welfare in East Asia and the Pacific''. [[Columbia University Press]]. Page 210. {{ISBN|978-0-231-53098-9}}.</ref><ref>Carter, Stan M. (2013). ''Climbing Matafao''. Author Solutions, Inc. Page 81. {{ISBN|978-1-4624-0527-5}}.</ref>]]
[[File:AmericanSamoa.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Bird's-eye view of the coast of Pago Pago]]

Pago Pago is in the [[Eastern District, American Samoa|Eastern District]] of American Samoa, in [[Administrative divisions of American Samoa|Ma'oputasi County]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2010/cph-t/t-8tables/table1b.pdf |title=CPH-T-8. Population, Housing Units, Land Area, and Density for U.S. Island Areas: 2010  |publisher=U.S. Census Bureau |page=2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190207020129/https://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2010/cph-t/t-8tables/table1b.pdf |archive-date=2019-02-07 }}</ref> It is approximately {{convert|2,600|mi|km}} southwest of Hawaii, {{convert|1,600|mi|km}} northeast of New Zealand, and {{convert|4,500|mi|km}} southwest of California.<ref>Ruffner, James A. and Frank E. Bair (1987). ''Weather of U.S. Cities: City Reports''. Gale Research Company. Page 840. {{ISBN|9780810321021}}.</ref> It is located at {{coord|14|16|46|S|170|42|02|W|region:US-AS|display=inline}}. Pago Pago is located 18 degrees south of the [[equator]].<ref name="americansamoaport.as.gov">{{cite web|url=http://americansamoaport.as.gov/airport-ppg/international-airport-ppg.html|title=Pago Pago International Airport (PPG) - American Samoa {{pipe}} Department of Port Administration|website=americansamoaport.as.gov|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171215144925/http://americansamoaport.as.gov/airport-ppg/international-airport-ppg.html|archive-date=December 15, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

The city of Pago Pago encompasses several surrounding villages,<ref name="visittheusa.com">{{cite web|url=https://www.visittheusa.com/destination/pago-pago|website=visittheusa.com|title=Pago Pago, American Samoa: The Capital City on the Harbor|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019004152/https://www.visittheusa.com/destination/pago-pago|archive-date=October 19, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> including Fagatogo, the legislative and judicial capital, and [[Utulei, American Samoa|Utulei]], the executive capital and home of the Governor.<ref name="britannica.com"/> The town is located between steep mountainsides and the harbor. It is surrounded by mountains such as [[Matafao Peak|Mount Matafao]] (2,142&nbsp;ft), [[Rainmaker Mountain]] (1,716&nbsp;ft), [[Mount {{okina}}Alava]] (1,611&nbsp;ft), [[Mount Siona]] (892&nbsp;ft), [[Mount Tepatasi]] (666&nbsp;ft), and [[Mount Matai]] (850&nbsp;ft), all mountains protecting Pago Pago Harbor.<ref name="as">{{cite web|url=http://americansamoaport.as.gov/|title=Port of Pago Pago - American Samoa {{pipe}} Department of Port Administration|website=americansamoaport.as.gov|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171210213020/http://americansamoaport.as.gov/|archive-date=December 10, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> The main downtown area is Fagatogo on the south shore of Pago Pago Harbor, the location of the [[American Samoa Fono|Fono (territorial legislature)]], the port, the bus station and the market. The banks are in Utulei and Fagotogo, as are the [[Sadie Thompson Inn]] and other hotels. The [[tuna]] canneries, which provide employment for a third of the population of Tutuila, are in Atu'u on the north shore of the harbor. The village of Pago Pago is at the western head of the harbor.<ref>"[https://www.britannica.com/eb/article-9057989/Pago-Pago Pago Pago (American Samoa)]". ''[[Encyclopædia Britannica|Britannica Online Encyclopedia]]''.</ref>

Pago Pago Harbor nearly bisects [[Tutuila Island]]. It is facing south and situated almost midpoint on the island. Its bay is {{convert|0.6|mi|km}} wide and {{convert|2.5|mi|km}} long. A {{convert|1,630|ft|m|adj=on}} high mountain, Mount Pioa (Rainmaker Mountain), is located at the east side of the bay. Half of American Samoa's inhabitants live along Pago Pago's foothills and coastal areas. The downtown area is known as Fagatogo and is home to government offices, port facilities, Samoan High School and the [[Rainmaker Hotel]]. Two tuna factories are located in the northern part of town. The town is centered around the mouth of the [[Vaopito Stream]].<ref name="Lal, Brij V 2000 Page 101"/> [[Pago Pago Harbor]] collects water from numerous streams, including the {{convert|1.7|mi|adj=on}} Vaipito Stream, which is the area's largest watershed. Not far from where [[American Samoa Route 001|Route One]] crosses Vaipito Stream is Laolao Stream, which discharges into the head of Pago Pago Harbor. It merges with Vaipito Stream in Pago Pago Park, a few yards from the harbor.

In the village of Pago Pago, from [[Malaloa, American Samoa|Malaloa]] to [[Satala, American Samoa|Satala]], there are a total of eleven rivers or streams. These include Vaipito, Gagamoe, Laolao, Pago, Leau, Vaima, Utumoa, and Aga. [[Tidal mud flats]] associated with the mouth of the Vaopito Stream were filled in order to create [[Pago Pago Park]] at the head of [[Pago Pago Harbor]].<ref name=ASWPP>{{cite web |url=http://www.botany.hawaii.edu/basch/uhnpscesu/pdfs/sam/Pedersen2000vol2AS.pdf |title=AMERICAN SAMOA WATERSHED PROTECTION PLAN |publisher=American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency |volume=2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190819215148/http://www.botany.hawaii.edu/basch/uhnpscesu/pdfs/sam/Pedersen2000vol2AS.pdf |archive-date=2019-08-19 }}</ref>{{rp|24–6}} Five species of [[Stiphodon|Gobie fish]], [[Mountain bass]], [[Freshwater eel]], [[Mullet (fish)|Mullet]] and four [[shrimp]] species have been recorded along the lower reach of the Vaipito Stream.<ref name=ASWPP/>{{rp|24-7,24-13}} One of the Goby species, ''[[Stiphodon hydoreibatus]]'', is [[endemic]] to the Samoan Islands and found nowhere else on Earth.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.botany.hawaii.edu/basch/uhnpscesu/htms/5Atlas/partz.htm |title=Samoa Guide, 26. Life in a Samoan stream |access-date=2019-08-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190819222106/http://www.botany.hawaii.edu/basch/uhnpscesu/htms/5Atlas/partz.htm |archive-date=2019-08-19 |url-status=live }}</ref>

North of town is the [[National Park of American Samoa]].<ref name="visitcapitalcity">{{cite web|url=http://www.visitcapitalcity.com/oceania/pago-pago-american-samoa|website=visitcapitalcity.com|title=Pago Pago, capital city of American Samoa|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170705080859/http://www.visitcapitalcity.com/oceania/pago-pago-american-samoa|archive-date=July 5, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> A climb to the summit of [[Mount {{okina}}Alava]] in the National Park of American Samoa provides a bird's-eye view of the harbor and town.<ref name="FREDERICK">Farrell, Jack, [http://www.fredericknewspost.com/your_life/life_news_collection/travel_and_outdoors/american-samoa-a-tropical-delight-hosting-the-only-u-s/article_b47b1a9a-1569-5e4c-8b00-0ac7f9110b29.html "American Samoa American Samoa: A Tropical Delight Hosting the Only U.S. National Park South of the Equator"] {{Webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20140512030432/http://www.fredericknewspost.com/your_life/life_news_collection/travel_and_outdoors/american-samoa-a-tropical-delight-hosting-the-only-u-s/article_b47b1a9a-1569-5e4c-8b00-0ac7f9110b29.html |date=2014-05-12 }}, ''[[Frederick News-Post]]'', Sunday, March 16, 2014</ref>

===Agriculture===
Agriculture and fishing still provide sustenance for local families.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|8–9}}
[[File:Pago Pago - Breadfruit and Taro.jpg|thumb|Breadfruit and taro from Pago Pago]]

===City features===
[[File:AmericanSamoaLegislatureBuilding.jpg|thumb|right|250px|[[American Samoa Fono|The Fono]] (legislature) is located in [[Fagatogo]], which is the center of town.]]
The Greater Pago Pago Area stretches into neighboring villages:<ref name="Cruise Travel Vol 1980 Page 60"/>

* '''[[Fagatogo]]''' is home to the [[Pago Pago Post Office]], museum, movie theater, bars, and taxi services. It is locally known as Downtown Pago Pago.<ref name="Grabowski-1992"/>{{rp|51}}
* '''[[Utulei, American Samoa|Utulei]]''' and '''[[Maleimi, American Samoa|Maleimi]]''' are home to some Pago Pago-based hotels.
* '''[[Satala, American Samoa|Satala]]''' and '''[[Atu'u, American Samoa|Atu'u]]''' are home to Pago Pago's tuna industry.
* '''[[Tafuna, American Samoa|Tafuna]]''' is the location of the Pago Pago International Airport, {{convert|7|mi|km|spell=in}} south of Pago Pago.

Some houses are Western-style; others are more traditional Samoan housing units. All houses have running water and plumbing.<ref>McDonald, George (1994). ''Frommer's Guide to the South Pacific, 1994–1995''. Prentice Hall Travel. Page 262. {{ISBN|9780671866600}}.</ref> It has been described as a "thoroughly [[Americanized]]" city.<ref name="Rauzon, Mark J. 2016 Page 7">Rauzon, Mark J. (2016). ''Isles of Amnesia: The History, Geography, and Restoration of America's Forgotten Pacific Islands''. University of Hawai'i Press, Latitude 20. Page 7. {{ISBN|9780824846794}}.</ref> Fagatogo is Pago Pago's chief governmental and commercial center.<ref>Holmes, Lowell D. (1974). ''Samoan Village''. Holt McDougal. Page 98. {{ISBN|9780030779251}}</ref>

[[Pago Pago Park]] is a public park by the harbor in Pago Pago. It lies by the Laolao Stream at the very end of Pago Pago Harbor. It is a {{convert|20|acre|adj=on}} recreational complex and culture center. There are a ball field, sports court and boat ramp in the park. The park houses businesses such as the American Samoa Development Bank.<ref>Goodwin, George McDonald (1994). ''Frommer's Guide to the South Pacific, 1994–1995''. Prentice Hall Travel. Page 258. {{ISBN|9780671866600}}.</ref><ref>Lonely Planet Publications (1990). ''Samoa, Western & American Samoa''. Lonely Planet Publications. Page 141. {{ISBN|9780864420787}}.</ref> There are basketball and tennis courts, a football field, a gymnasium, a bowling alley and several Korean food kiosks in the park. The Korean House was built as a social center for the Korean fishermen in town.<ref name="Swaney-1994"/>{{rp|170}}

=== National Park ===
{{Main| National Park of American Samoa}}
[[File:FEMA - 42201 - Antonov Cargo Plane Arrives in American Samoa Carrying Generator.jpg|thumb|right|250px|National Park of American Samoa is accessed through [[Pago Pago International Airport]].<ref>National Geographic (2016). ''National Geographic Guide to National Parks of the United States''. National Geographic. Page 319. {{ISBN|9781426216510}}.</ref>]]
[[File:American_Samoa_students_attend_class_at_Tauese_P._F._Sunia_Ocean_Center_Pago_Pago.png|thumb|right|250px|[[Tauese P. F. Sunia Ocean Center]] is the visitor center for the [[National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa]].]]
Pago Pago is the primary entry point for visits to National Park of American Samoa, and the city is situated immediately south of the park.<ref name="Harris, Ann G 2004 Page 604"/><ref>Hughes, Holly (2010). ''Frommer's 500 Extraordinary Islands (500 Places)''. Frommer's. Page 86. {{ISBN|9780470500705}}</ref> Its park visitor center is located at the head of Pago Pago Harbor: Pago Plaza Visitor Center (Pago Plaza, Suite 114, Pago Pago, AS 96799).<ref>National Geographic Society (2012). ''National Geographic Guide to National Parks of the United States''. National Geographic Books. Page 233. {{ISBN|9781426208690}}.</ref><ref>Smith, Darren L. and Penny J. Hoffman (2001). ''Parks Directory of the United States''. Omnigraphics. Page 70. {{ISBN|9780780804401}}.</ref> This center also contains a collection of Samoan artifacts, corals, and seashells.<ref name="Stanley-2004"/>{{rp|479}} The center expanded with 700 sq. ft. in July 2019, adding new demonstrations and exhibits. An item at the new exhibit is the skull of a sperm whale which washed up on [[Ofu-Olosega|Ofu]] Island in 2015. Several video screens and panels inform visitors about Samoan dolphins and whales. The exhibit also contains a {{convert|6|ft|adj=on}} by {{convert|6|ft|adj=on}} [[siapo]] which was made by college students as well as an {{okina}}enu basket woven with traditional materials.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.talanei.com/2019/07/02/check-out-exhibits-at-nps-visitor-center/ |title=Check out exhibits at NPS Visitor Center |access-date=2019-08-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190704022816/https://www.talanei.com/2019/07/02/check-out-exhibits-at-nps-visitor-center/ |archive-date=2019-07-04 |url-status=live }}</ref>

The nearest hotels to the national park are also located in Pago Pago.<ref>Moker, Molly (2008). ''America's National Parks: Complete Coverage of All 391 National Parks, Including Scenic Trails, Battlefields, and Other Historic Sites''. Fodor's Travel Pub. Page 429. {{ISBN|9781400016280}}.</ref> Other parts of the park, on the islands of [[Ta{{okina}}ū]] and [[Ofu, American Samoa|Ofu]], can be visited via commercial inter-island air carrier from Pago Pago International Airport.

The national park is home to tropical rainforest, tall mountains, beaches, and some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world ({{convert|3,000|ft|m|disp=semicolon|abbr=on}}).<ref>Harris, Ann G. and Esther Tuttle (2004). ''Geology of National Parks''. Kendall Hunt. Page 603. {{ISBN|9780787299705}}.</ref> It was authorized by the U.S. Congress in 1988 to preserve the [[paleotropical]] rain forest, Indo-Pacific [[coral reefs]], and Samoan culture. It officially opened in 1993 when a 50-year lease was signed between the U.S. federal government, the [[government of American Samoa]], and local village chiefs (Matai). It is the only U.S. National Park where the U.S. federal government leases the land from local governments instead of being the land owner. It is a {{convert|8,257|acre|adj=on}} park which provides habitat for a variety of tropical wildlife, including coral reef fish, seabirds, flying [[fruit bats]], and numerous other species of animals. Approximately {{convert|2,600|acre}} are on Tutuila, and the remainder is on the other islands and the ocean. The park's offshore coral reefs provide habitat for 1,000 species of [[Coral reef fish|coral reef]] and [[pelagic fish]]es.<ref>Goldin, Meryl Rose (2002). ''Field Guide to the Samoan Archipelago: Fish, Wildlife, and Protected Areas''. Bess Press. Pages 273-274. {{ISBN|9781573061117}}.</ref> The park is home to over 150 species of coral. Notable terrestrial species are the [[Candoia bibroni|Pacific tree boa]] and the Flying [[Megabat]], which has a {{convert|3|ft|adj=on|spell=in}} wingspread.<ref>Butcher, Russell D. and Lynn P. Whitaker (1999). ''National Parks and Conservation Association Guide to National Parks: Pacific Region''. Globe Pequot Press. Page 82. {{ISBN|9780762705733}}.</ref>

===Natural hazards===
Pago Pago is vulnerable to natural and man-made disasters. Vulnerabilities include heavy storms, flooding, [[tsunami]]s, mudslides, and [[earthquake]]s. American Samoa has experienced several [[cyclone]]s and tropical storms, which also increase risks of rock slides and floodings.<ref>Corlew, Kati (2015). ''Sauniuniga mo Puapuaga ma Suiga o le Tau i Amerika Sāmoa'' (in [[Samoan language]]). East-West Center. Pages 3-5. {{ISBN|9780866382601}}.</ref>

The capital city is situated at the head of [[Pago Pago Harbor]] in a sheltered area that has been described as relatively safe during [[hurricane]]s.<ref name="Rauzon, Mark J. 2016 Page 7"/>'

In the past century, Pago Pago has experienced over 50 minor tsunamis. The earliest and most impactful tsunami before the [[2009 Samoa earthquake and tsunami]] occurred in 1917. This event was triggered by a magnitude 8.3 earthquake at the outer border of the northern end of the [[Tonga Trench]], approximately 200&nbsp;km off the Tutuila coast. The initial wave, reaching a height of about 3 m., resulted in the destruction of numerous houses and two churches. No human casualties were reported. Another notable event was the tsunami associated with the [[1960 Valdivia earthquake]]. While waves in the head of Pago Pago Bay reached a maximum height of 5 m., they caused minimal damage to several houses, with no reported casualties. The most destructive tsunami in Pago Pago's recorded history took place in 2009. Studies indicate that during this incident, wave amplification occurred in the Pago Pago Bay due to its long and narrow morphology. Waves that measured approximately 1 m. at the mouth of Pago Pago Bay surged to a maximum height of 7 m. at the head of Pago Pago Bay. The resulting inundation caused extensive damage in Pago Pago Harbor, extending up to 500 m. inland, and reaching a maximum run-up of 8 m., leading to 34 casualties across Tutuila Island.<ref>Brieuc Riou, Eric Chaumillon, Jean-Luc Schneider, Thierry Corrège, Catherine Chagué. “The sediment-fill of Pago Pago Bay (Tutuila Island, American Samoa): New insights on the sediment record of past tsunamis.” Sedimentology, Blackwell Publishing, In press, 10.1111/sed.12574. hal-02422133. Retrieved on January 19, 2024, from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/sed.12574</ref>

===Geology===
[[File:Pago_Eroded_Volcano_in_American_Samoa.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The eroded [[shield volcano]] of Pago at Pago Pago Harbor.]]
[[Tutuila Island]] is a basaltic [[volcanic dome]] created by five volcanoes aligned along two or possibly three rift zones—fractures in the basement rock. The island's formation dates back to the [[Pliocene]] and early [[Pleistocene]] epochs, approximately 5 million to 500,000 years ago. Volcanic activity ceased around 10,000 years ago, leaving the island volcanically dormant today. The central feature of Tutuila's geology is the [[Pago Volcano]], which was active between 1.54 and 1.28 million years ago. The volcano's caldera, approximately 6 miles long and 3 miles wide, collapsed 1.27 million years ago, creating [[Pago Pago Harbor]]. The natural harbor formed in the partially submerged remnants of the [[caldera]], which cuts deeply into the south-central coast of the island. The village of Pago Pago is situated at the narrowest part of Tutuila, near the center of the collapsed caldera. The northern half of the Pago Volcano shield remains, while the southeastern portion has been eroded to form the harbor.<ref name="United States 1992 Page 3-13">United States. Federal Highway Administration (1992). "Pago Pago Park, New Access Road: Environmental Impact Statement". Northwestern University. Page 3-13-1.</ref><ref name="npshistory.com">https://npshistory.com/publications/npsa/nrr-2008-025.pdf</ref><ref name="Harris, Ann G 2004 Page 614">Harris, Ann G. and Esther Tuttle (2004). G''eology of National Parks''. University of Michigan. Page 614. {{ISBN|978-0-7872-9970-5}}.</ref>

[[Erosion]] has also played a significant role in shaping the landscape. Following the collapse of the Pago Volcano, the [[Vaipito Valley]] and [[Pago Pago Bay]] were sculpted by streams and geological processes. The Vaipito Stream, which follows a fault line associated with the volcano, carved steep valley walls, exposing rock formations of [[basalt]], [[andesite]], and [[trachyte]]. Over time, colluvial and fluvial sediments filled the lower reaches of the valley, creating a narrow, flat floodplain. Coralline sands and basaltic sediments deposited at the stream's mouth contributed to the formation of a narrow coral-rubble reef flat along Pago Pago Bay's shoreline. Pago Pago Harbor marks the southeastern boundary of the caldera. The northwest rim of the caldera, known as the [[Maugaloa Ridge]], forms the southern boundary of the [[National Park of American Samoa]].<ref name="United States 1992 Page 3-13"/><ref name="npshistory.com"/><ref name="Harris, Ann G 2004 Page 614"/>

== Climate ==
[[File:Fagatogo Dock.jpg|thumb|right|250px|At {{convert|1,716|ft|m|abbr=on}}, [[Rainmaker Mountain]] gives the city the highest annual rainfall of any harbor in the world.<ref name="lonelyplanet.com"/>]]
Pago Pago has a [[tropical rainforest climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification]] ''Af'') with hot temperatures and abundant year-round rainfall. All official climate records for American Samoa are kept at Pago Pago. The hottest temperature ever recorded was {{convert|99|F|C}} on February 22, 1958. Conversely, the lowest temperature on record was {{convert|59|F|C}} on October 10, 1964.<ref name= NCDC >{{cite web |url = https://w2.weather.gov/climate/xmacis.php?wfo=samoa |title = NOWData - NOAA Online Weather Data |publisher = National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration |access-date = November 22, 2012 }}</ref> The average annual temperature recorded at the weather station at [[Pago Pago International Airport]] is {{convert|82|F}}, with a temperature range of about two degrees Fahrenheit separating the average monthly temperatures of the coolest and hottest months.

Pago Pago has been named one of the wettest places on Earth. Due to its warm winters, the plant [[hardiness zone]] is 13b. It receives {{convert|128.34|in|mm}} of rain per year. The rainy season lasts from October through May, but the town experiences warm and humid temperatures year-round. Besides it being wetter and more humid from November–April, this is also the hurricane season. The frequency of hurricanes hitting Pago Pago has increased dramatically in recent years. The windy season lasts from May to October. As warmer easterlies are forced up and over Rainmaker Mountain, clouds form and drop moisture on the city. Consequentially, Pago Pago experiences twice the rainfall of nearby Apia in Western Samoa.<ref name="Stanley-1993"/>{{rp|350–351}} The average yearly rainfall in Pago Pago Harbor is {{convert|197.|in|mm}}, whereas in neighboring Western Samoa, it is around {{convert|118.|in|mm}} per year.<ref>Stanley, David (1982). ''South Pacific Handbook''. David Stanley. Page 154. {{ISBN|9780960332236}}.</ref>

Rainmaker Mountain, which is also known as Mount Pioa, is a designated [[National Natural Landmark]].<ref name="Harris, Ann G 2004 Page 604"/> It is notable for its ability to extract rain in tremendous quantities. Rising {{convert|1,716|ft}} out of the ocean, the Pioa [[monolith]] blocks the path of the low clouds heavy with fresh water as they are pushed along by the southeast tradewinds. The southeast ridge of Rainmaker Mountain reaches up into the clouds creating downfalls of enormous proportions.<ref name="Shaffer-2000"/>{{rp|30}}

{{Weather box
|location = Pago Pago, American Samoa ([[Pago Pago International Airport]]), 1991–2020 normals, extremes 1957–present
|single line = Y
|Jan record high F = 95
|Feb record high F = 99
|Mar record high F = 95
|Apr record high F = 95
|May record high F = 93
|Jun record high F = 95
|Jul record high F = 91
|Aug record high F = 92
|Sep record high F = 92
|Oct record high F = 94
|Nov record high F = 95
|Dec record high F = 94
|year record high F = 99
|Jan high F = 87.8
|Feb high F = 88.1
|Mar high F = 88.4
|Apr high F = 87.8
|May high F = 86.5
|Jun high F = 85.3
|Jul high F = 84.6
|Aug high F = 84.8
|Sep high F = 85.7
|Oct high F = 86.4
|Nov high F = 87.0
|Dec high F = 87.6
|year high F = 86.7
|Jan mean F = 83.0
|Feb mean F = 83.2
|Mar mean F = 83.3
|Apr mean F = 83.0
|May mean F = 82.2
|Jun mean F = 81.5
|Jul mean F = 80.9
|Aug mean F = 80.9
|Sep mean F = 81.6
|Oct mean F = 82.1
|Nov mean F = 82.5
|Dec mean F = 82.9
|year mean F = 82.3
|Jan low F = 78.2
|Feb low F = 78.3
|Mar low F = 78.2
|Apr low F = 78.1
|May low F = 77.9
|Jun low F = 77.8
|Jul low F = 77.2
|Aug low F = 77.0
|Sep low F = 77.5
|Oct low F = 77.7
|Nov low F = 78.0
|Dec low F = 78.2
|year low F = 77.8
|Jan record low F = 67
|Feb record low F = 65
|Mar record low F = 63
|Apr record low F = 68
|May record low F = 65
|Jun record low F = 61
|Jul record low F = 62
|Aug record low F = 60
|Sep record low F = 62
|Oct record low F = 59
|Nov record low F = 60
|Dec record low F = 65
|year record low F = 59
| Jan avg record high F = 91.0
| Feb avg record high F = 91.3
| Mar avg record high F = 91.3
| Apr avg record high F = 90.7
| May avg record high F = 89.6
| Jun avg record high F = 88.0
| Jul avg record high F = 87.7
| Aug avg record high F = 88.0
| Sep avg record high F = 88.9
| Oct avg record high F = 89.6
| Nov avg record high F = 90.4
| Dec avg record high F = 90.7
|year avg record high F = 92.4
| Jan avg record low F = 75.1
| Feb avg record low F = 75.2
| Mar avg record low F = 75.0
| Apr avg record low F = 74.7
| May avg record low F = 73.6
| Jun avg record low F = 73.4
| Jul avg record low F = 72.4
| Aug avg record low F = 72.6
| Sep avg record low F = 73.3
| Oct avg record low F = 73.7
| Nov avg record low F = 73.9
| Dec avg record low F = 74.7
|year avg record low F = 70.7
|precipitation colour = green
|Jan precipitation inch = 15.25
|Feb precipitation inch = 13.70
|Mar precipitation inch = 10.95
|Apr precipitation inch = 11.27
|May precipitation inch = 11.73
|Jun precipitation inch = 6.37
|Jul precipitation inch = 7.51
|Aug precipitation inch = 6.93
|Sep precipitation inch = 7.99
|Oct precipitation inch = 10.24
|Nov precipitation inch = 12.05
|Dec precipitation inch = 14.35
|year precipitation inch = 128.34
|unit precipitation days = 0.01 in
|Jan precipitation days = 24.3
|Feb precipitation days = 22.0
|Mar precipitation days = 23.8
|Apr precipitation days = 22.2
|May precipitation days = 20.8
|Jun precipitation days = 18.8
|Jul precipitation days = 20.0
|Aug precipitation days = 19.0
|Sep precipitation days = 18.4
|Oct precipitation days = 21.1
|Nov precipitation days = 21.3
|Dec precipitation days = 23.8
|year precipitation days = 255.5
|Jan humidity = 82.8
|Feb humidity = 83.3
|Mar humidity = 83.2
|Apr humidity = 84.0
|May humidity = 83.6
|Jun humidity = 82.0
|Jul humidity = 80.4
|Aug humidity = 79.8
|Sep humidity = 80.2
|Oct humidity = 81.5
|Nov humidity = 82.3
|Dec humidity = 82.1
|year humidity = 82.1
|Jan sun = 165.3
|Feb sun = 150.3
|Mar sun = 179.2
|Apr sun = 132.2
|May sun = 123.3
|Jun sun = 113.7
|Jul sun = 148.0
|Aug sun = 168.0
|Sep sun = 196.0
|Oct sun = 159.6
|Nov sun = 156.7
|Dec sun = 156.8
|year sun = 1849.1
|Jan percentsun = 41
|Feb percentsun = 43
|Mar percentsun = 48
|Apr percentsun = 37
|May percentsun = 35
|Jun percentsun = 34
|Jul percentsun = 42
|Aug percentsun = 47
|Sep percentsun = 54
|Oct percentsun = 41
|Nov percentsun = 41
|Dec percentsun = 39
|year percentsun = 42
|Jan dew point C = 23.8
|Feb dew point C = 23.8
|Mar dew point C = 23.8
|Apr dew point C = 23.8
|May dew point C = 23.5
|Jun dew point C = 23.1
|Jul dew point C = 22.3
|Aug dew point C = 22.0
|Sep dew point C = 22.5
|Oct dew point C = 23.1
|Nov dew point C = 23.4
|Dec dew point C = 23.6
|year dew point F =
|source 1 = NOAA (relative humidity and sun 1961–1990)<ref>{{cite web
|url = https://www.weather.gov/wrh/Climate?wfo=ppg
|title = NOWData - NOAA Online Weather Data
|publisher = [[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]]
|access-date = September 11, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web
|url = https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/services/data/v1?dataset=normals-monthly-1991-2020&startDate=0001-01-01&endDate=9996-12-31&stations=AQW00061705&format=pdf
|title = Summary of Monthly Normals 1991-2020
|publisher = [[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]]
|access-date = September 11, 2021
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230624142102/https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/services/data/v1?dataset=normals-monthly-1991-2020&startDate=0001-01-01&endDate=9996-12-31&stations=AQW00061705&format=pdf
|archive-date = 2023-06-24}}</ref><ref name=NOAAsun>
{{cite web
|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210911145834/https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/pub/data/normals/WMO/1961-1990/TABLES/REG__V/U1/91765.TXT
|archive-date = September 11, 2021
|url = https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/pub/data/normals/WMO/1961-1990/TABLES/REG__V/U1/91765.TXT
|title = WMO Climate Normals for Tafuna/American Samoa, PI 1961–1990
|publisher = [[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]]
|access-date = September 11, 2021}}</ref>
}}
{{Graph:Weather monthly history
| table=Ncei.noaa.gov/weather/Pago Pago.tab
| title=Pago Pago monthly weather statistics
}}

==Demographics==
{{US Census population
| 1912 = 404
| 1920 = 508
| 1930 = 708
| 1940 = 934
| 1950 = 1586
| 1960 = 1251
| 1970 = 2451
| 1980 = 2491
| 1990 = 3518
| 2000 = 4278
| 2010 = 3656
| 2020 = 3000
| estyear =
| estimate =
| estref =
}}
[[File:Pago pago post office.jpg|thumb|right|Pago Pago Post Office (Luman'ai Building) in Fagatogo]]
The village of Pago Pago proper had a 2010 population of 3,656. However, Pago Pago also encompasses neighboring villages. The Greater Pago Pago Area was home to 11,500 residents in 2011.<ref name="ngdc.noaa.gov">{{Cite web |url=https://ngdc.noaa.gov/mgg/coastal/pacific_islands_dem_catalog.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2017-10-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170130192235/https://www.ngdc.noaa.gov/mgg/coastal/pacific_islands_dem_catalog.pdf |archive-date=2017-01-30 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Around 90 percent of American Samoa's population lives around Pago Pago.<ref>McColl, R.W. (2014). ''Encyclopedia of World Geography, Volume 1''. Infobase Publishing. Page 29. {{ISBN|9780816072293}}.</ref><ref name="cia">{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/american-samoa/|website=cia.gov|title=library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/print_aq|access-date=November 28, 2017}}</ref> American Samoa's population grew by 22 percent in the 1990s; nearly all of this growth took place in Pago Pago.<ref>Hans Folke and Merete Borch: "Amerikansk Samoa" in [[Den Store Danske]], ''[[Gyldendal]]''. Retrieved October 31, 2019, from http://denstoredanske.dk/index.php?sideId=36933</ref>

As of the [[2000 U.S. Census]], 74.5% of Pago Pago's population are of "[[Pacific Islander|Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Island]]" race. 16.6% were [[Asian Americans|Asian]], while 4.9% were [[White Americans|white]].<ref>''Census of population and housing (2000): American Samoa Summary Social, Economic, and Housing Characteristics'' (2000). DIANE Publishing. Page 147. {{ISBN|9781428985490}}.</ref> In Pago Pago proper, residential communities are mostly found in the [[Vaipito Valley]].<ref name=ASWPP/>{{rp|24-23}}

The proportion of Pago Pago residents born outside of American Samoa was 26 percent in the early 1980s, and 39 percent in the late 1980s. The percentage of residents born abroad reached 44 percent in 1990. Many of the residents are American Samoans who were born abroad, and the village also has had an increasing number of new residents from [[Far East]] countries such as [[South Korea]].<ref name=ASWPP/>{{rp|24-22}}

The village of Pago Pago, the Greater Pago Pago Area and [[Maʻopūtasi County]] observed a notable reduction in population during the period from 2010 to 2020. Specifically, the county registered a 16.8 percent decline in population, while Pago Pago proper recorded an 18 percent decrease. This decline surpassed the overall population decrease for American Samoa, which stood at 10.5 percent during the same timeframe. Among the villages in the county, only [[Anua]] experienced a positive growth in population, contrasting with declines in villages such as [[Fagatogo]] (-16.8%), [[Satala, American Samoa|Satala]] (-26.6%), and [[Utulei, American Samoa|Utulei]] (-30%).<ref>{{cite web |title=Tables 1 and 2. 2020 Census |url=https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial/2020/data/island-areas/american-samoa/population-and-housing-unit-counts/american-samoa-phc-table02.pdf |publisher=Census Bureau |access-date=2022-07-01 |archive-date=2022-12-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221207042526/https://www2.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial/2020/data/island-areas/american-samoa/population-and-housing-unit-counts/american-samoa-phc-table02.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Government==
[[File:High Court of American Samoa.jpg|thumb|right|250px|[[High Court of American Samoa]]]]
Pago Pago is the seat of the judiciary ([[Fagatogo]]), legislature and Governor's Office ([[Utulei, American Samoa|Utulei]]).<ref name="Cruise Travel Vol 1980 Page 60"/>

Pago Pago operates under a dual local government system, consisting of county councils and village councils. Each system serves distinct yet complementary roles in governance and community administration. Pago Pago is part of [[Maʻopūtasi County]], which is governed by a county council responsible for regional services such as law enforcement, public health initiatives, and broader infrastructure projects. The county council is composed of elected officials who serve four-year terms, ensuring governance that aligns with the needs of the area. On a more localized level, the [[Pago Pago Village Council]] (PPVC) oversees the daily management of the village. This council, made up of elected village leaders, handles essential community functions, including maintaining local infrastructure, managing budgets, and ensuring the safety and welfare of residents. In addition to administrative duties, the council plays a vital role in resolving disputes and preserving traditional Samoan customs and values.<ref>James, Gilad (2023). ''Introduction to American Samoa''. Gilad James Mystery School. {{ISBN|978-85-453-6800-7}}.</ref>

==Education==
The [[Feleti Barstow Public Library]] is located in Pago Pago.<ref>"[http://www.fbpl.org/contact-us Contact Us] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100516175537/http://fbpl.org/contact-us |date=2010-05-16 }}". [[Feleti Barstow Public Library]]. Retrieved May 19, 2010.</ref> In 1991, severe tropical [[Cyclone Val]] hit Pago Pago, destroying the library that existed there. The current Barstow library, constructed in 1998, opened on April 17, 2000.<ref>"[http://www.fbpl.org/history History] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101218213126/http://fbpl.org/history |date=2010-12-18 }}." [[Feleti Barstow Public Library]]. Retrieved May 19, 2010.</ref>

The [[American Samoa Community College]] (ASCC) was founded in July 1970 by the [[American Samoa Department of Education]]. The college's first courses were taught in 1971 at the Lands and Survey Building in [[Fagatogo]]. At the time, the college had a total enrollment of 131 students. In 1972, the college moved to the former [[Fialloa High School]] in [[Utulei]], before ultimately moving to its current location in [[Mapusaga]] in 1974.<ref name="Crocombe, R.G 1988 Page 218">Crocombe, R.G. and Malama Meleisea (1988). ''Pacific Universities: Achievements, Problems, Prospects''. [[The University of the South Pacific]]. Page 218. {{ISBN|9789820200395}}.</ref>

==Culture==
===Religion===
Pago Pago is home to a variety of Christian denominations, including the [[New Apostolic Church]], the Congregational Christian Church of Jesus Christ (CCCJS), the Pago Pago [[Assembly of God]], [[The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints]] (LDS), the [[Methodism|Susana Uesele Methodist Church]], and the First Chinese Baptist Church of American Samoa. The All People’s Pentecostal Church was dedicated in August 2017, and a new [[Kingdom Hall|Jehovah’s Witnesses Kingdom Hall]] opened in 2016. The town also has a [[Baháʼí Faith|Baháʼí Center]]. In neighboring [[Satala, American Samoa|Satala]], there is a [[Seventh-day Adventist Church]], while [[Fagatogo, American Samoa|Fagatogo]] is the site of the Roman Catholic [[Co-Cathedral of St. Joseph the Worker (Fagatogo, American Samoa)|Co-Cathedral of St. Joseph the Worker]].<ref>Aitaoto, Fuimaono Fini (2021). ''Progress and Developments of the Churches in the Samoan Islands: Early 21St Century''. LifeRich Publishing. {{ISBN|978-1-4897-3586-7}}.</ref>

Several congregations in Pago Pago, including [[Assemblies of God]], the [[Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa]] (CCCAS), and [[Methodism|Methodist]] churches, participate in joint worship services through the [[World Council of Churches]]. However, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and certain other denominations do not take part in these shared services.<ref>Aitaoto, Fuimaono Fini (2021). ''Progress and Developments of the Churches in the Samoan Islands: Early 21St Century''. LifeRich Publishing. Pages 122 and 266. {{ISBN|978-1-4897-3586-7}}.</ref>

==Economy==
[[File:Charlie Tuna AmSamoa.JPG|thumb|right|250px|"Charlie the Tuna" is the symbol of the [[StarKist]] cannery, the largest tuna processing plant in the world.]]
[[File:Line4392_-_Flickr_-_NOAA_Photo_Library.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Tuna boats in the Port of Pago Pago]]
Pago Pago is the center of commerce in American Samoa.<ref name="Crocombe, R.G 1988 Page 218"/><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.latimes.com/travel/la-tr-nps-american-samoa-20161226-htmlstory.html |title=In this 'weird, lost corner of America,' the beach of your dreams awaits in the most remote national park |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |date=26 December 2016 |access-date=2019-07-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190723045101/https://www.latimes.com/travel/la-tr-nps-american-samoa-20161226-htmlstory.html |archive-date=2019-07-23 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>Blackford, Mansel G. (2007). ''Pathways to the Present: U.S. Development and Its Consequences in the Pacific''. University of Hawaii Press. Page 196. {{ISBN|9780824830731}}.</ref> It is home to all the industry and most of the commerce in American Samoa.<ref name="Swaney-1994"/>{{rp|166}} It is the number one port in the United States in terms of value of fish landed - about $200,000,000 per year.<ref name=NPS2009a/> In 2007, tuna exports accounted for 93% of all exports, amounting to $446 million.<ref>Craig, Robert D. (2011). ''Historical Dictionary of Polynesia''. Rowman & Littlefield. Page 26. {{ISBN|9780810867727}}.</ref>

Tuna canning is the main economic activity in town. Exports are almost exclusively tuna canneries such as [[Chicken of the Sea]] and [[StarKist]], which are both located in Pago Pago. These also occupy 14 percent of American Samoa's total workforce as of 2014.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gao.gov/assets/690/681370.pdf |title=AMERICAN SAMOA: Alternatives for Raising Minimum Wages to Keep Pace with the Cost of Living and Reach the Federal Level |publisher=GAO |date=2016 |page=1 |access-date=3 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170602193121/http://www.gao.gov/assets/690/681370.pdf |archive-date=2017-06-02}}</ref> The most industrialized area in the territory can be found between Pago Pago Harbor and the [[Tafuna-Leone Plain]], which also are the two most densely populated places in the islands.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2015-11/documents/as_afuelo.pdf |title=Outreach and Enforcement Reduce Instream E. coli Levels and Disease Risk |publisher=EPA |date=May 2006 |access-date=28 November 2022}}</ref>

American Samoa was the world's fourth-largest tuna processor in 1993. The primary industry is tuna processing by the Samoa Packing Co. ([[Chicken of the Sea]]) and [[StarKist|StarKist Samoa]], a subsidiary of [[H.J. Heinz]]. The first cannery was opened in 1954. Canned fish, canned pet food, and fish meal from skin and bones account for 93 percent of American Samoa's industrial output.<ref name="Stanley-1993"/>{{rp|353}}

Dining establishments, amusement facilities, professional services, and bars can be found throughout Pago Pago. Pago Pago proper was home to 225 registered commercial enterprises as of year 2000. Within the Pago Pago watershed, farmland (faatoaga) are located in two areas in the southern half of the [[Vaipito Valley]] as well as in [[Happy Valley, American Samoa|Happy Valley]] and on the west side of Pago Pago village. Farmland is also found by [[Fagatogo, American Samoa|Fagatogo]], [[Atu'u, American Samoa|Atu'u]], Punaoa Valley, [[Lepua, American Samoa|Lepua]], [[Aua, American Samoa|Aua]], and [[Leloaloa, American Samoa|Leloaloa]].<ref name=ASWPP/>{{rp|24-24,24-25}}

Centers for shopping are Pago Plaza, which consists of smaller stores selling handcrafts and souvenirs, and Fagatogo Square Shopping Center, which is home to larger shops.<ref name="visittheusa.com"/> This shopping mall is next-door to [[Fagatogo Market]] in [[Fagatogo]], which is considered the main center of Pago Pago. It is home to several restaurants, shops, bars, and often live entertainment and music. Souvenirs are often sold at the market when cruise ships are visiting town. Locals also sell handmade crafts at the dock and on main street. [[Mount {{okina}}Alava]], the canneries in [[Atu'u]], [[Rainmaker Mountain]] (Mount Pioa), and [[Pago Pago Harbor]] are all visible from the market. The main bus station is located immediately behind the market.<ref name="lonelyplanet">{{cite web|url=http://www.lonelyplanet.com/american-samoa/tutuila/attractions/fagatogo-market/a/poi-sig/1456059/362248|title=Fagatogo Market in Tutuila|website=Lonely Planet|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021164516/https://www.lonelyplanet.com/american-samoa/tutuila/attractions/fagatogo-market/a/poi-sig/1456059/362248|archive-date=October 21, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>Stanley, David (1999). ''Moon Handbooks Tonga-Samoa''. David Stanley. Page 168. {{ISBN|9781566911740}}.</ref>

Pago Pago is a [[duty-free]] port and prices on imported goods are lower than in other parts of the [[South Pacific Ocean]].<ref name="Swaney-1994"/>{{rp|166}} Governor [[H. Rex Lee]] signed a law making Pago Pago a duty-free port in May 1967.<ref name="Sunia-2009"/>{{rp|285}}

It is a wealthier city than nearby [[Apia]], capital of [[Samoa]].<ref>Brillat, Michael (1999). ''South Pacific Islands''. Hunter Publishing, Inc. Page 136. {{ISBN|9783886181049}}.</ref><ref name="nytimes">{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2001/01/21/travel/aging-well-in-american-samoa.html|title=AGING WELL IN AMERICAN SAMOA|website=The New York Times|date=21 January 2001|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019112625/http://www.nytimes.com/2001/01/21/travel/aging-well-in-american-samoa.html|archive-date=October 19, 2017|url-status=live|last1=Clausing|first1=Jeri}}</ref><ref>Goodwin, George McDonald (1994). ''Frommer's Guide to the South Pacific, 1994–1995''. Prentice Hall Travel. Page 205. {{ISBN|9780671866600}}.</ref>

===Tourism===
[[File:RAINMAKER HOTEL, PAGO PAGO, AMERICAN SAMOA.jpg|thumb|upright=1.2|[[Rainmaker Hotel]]]]
Tourism in [[American Samoa]] is centered around Pago Pago. It receives 34,000 visitors per year, which is one-fourth of neighboring country of [[Samoa]]. 69.3 percent of visitors are from the [[United States]] as of 2014.<ref>Harssel, Jan van and Richard H. Jackson (2014). ''National Geographic Learning's Visual Geography of Travel and Tourism''. Cengage Learning. Page 526. {{ISBN|9781305176478}}.</ref>

Until 1980, one could experience the view of Mt. Avala by taking an [[aerial tramway]] over the harbor, but on April 17 of that year a [[United States Navy|U.S. Navy]] plane, flying overhead as part of the [[Flag Day]] celebrations, struck the cable; the plane crashed into a wing of the [[Rainmaker Hotel]].<ref>Moos, Grant. 1980 [1997]. "April 17, 1980: Fiery crash halts Flag Day". ''Samoa News'', April 18, 1980 (reprinted in the ''Samoa News'', January 22, 1997: 4). Cited in Sorensen, Stan, and Joseph Theroux. ''[http://americansamoa.gov/history/samhist_forweb.pdf The Samoan Historical Calendar, 1606–2007] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227053254/http://americansamoa.gov/history/samhist_forweb.pdf |date=2009-02-27 }}''. p. 93.</ref> The tramway was repaired, but closed not long after. The tram remains unusable, although according to ''[[Lonely Planet]],'' plans have been put forth to reopen it, but in January 2011 the cable was damaged by Tropical [[Cyclone Wilma]], fell into the harbor and has not been repaired. Governor [[Lolo Matalasi Moliga]] announced in 2014 that he would look into restoring the cable car.<ref name="radionz">{{cite web|url=http://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/257078/american-samoa-plans-cable-car-revival|title=American Samoa plans cable car revival|website=Radio New Zealand News|date=16 October 2014|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107015038/http://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/257078/american-samoa-plans-cable-car-revival|archive-date=November 7, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

The [[Sadie Thompson Inn]], on the outskirts of Pago Pago, is a hotel and restaurant that is listed on the U.S. [[National Register of Historic Places]].

The Greater Pago Pago Area is home to more than 10 hotels:<ref name="Stanley-2004"/>{{rp|483–485}}

==Transportation==
[[File:IAmerican Samoa 1.JPG|thumb|right|250px|Pago Pago Harbor is capable of accommodating the largest ships in the world.<ref name="americansamoatourism">{{cite web|url=https://americansamoatourism.com/pago-pago-harbor-american-samoa|title=Pago Pago Harbor, American Samoa|website=American Samoa Tourism|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021163526/https://americansamoatourism.com/pago-pago-harbor-american-samoa|archive-date=October 21, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="cruiseindustrynews">{{cite web|url=https://www.cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/17229-american-samoa-targets-expedition-market.html|title=American Samoa Targets Expedition Market - Cruise Industry News {{pipe}} Cruise News|website=cruiseindustrynews.com|date=20 June 2017|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170620142955/https://www.cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/17229-american-samoa-targets-expedition-market.html|archive-date=June 20, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="usatoday">{{cite web|url=http://traveltips.usatoday.com/american-samoa-cruises-18066.html|title=American Samoa Cruises|website=USA Today|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021111703/http://traveltips.usatoday.com/american-samoa-cruises-18066.html|archive-date=October 21, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>]]
[[File:Airside_at_the_airport_-_panoramio.jpg|thumb|right|250px|[[Pago Pago International Airport]]]]
Pago Pago Harbor is the [[port of entry]] for vessels arriving in American Samoa.<ref>Stanley, David (1999). ''South Pacific Handbook''. Moon Handbooks. Page 438. {{ISBN|9781566911726}}.</ref> Many cruise boats and ships land at Pago Pago Harbor for reprovision reasons, such as to restock on goods and to utilize American-trained medical personnel.<ref>Pocock, Michael (2013). ''The Pacific Crossing Guide: RCC Pilotage Foundation with Ocean Cruising Club''. Bloomsbury Publishing. Page 71. {{ISBN|9781472905260}}.</ref> Pago Pago Harbor is one of the world's largest natural harbors.<ref name="ngdc.noaa.gov"/> It has been named one of the best deepwater harbors in the South Pacific Ocean,<ref name="States Central Intelligence Agency 2016 Page 19"/><ref>McColl, R.W. (2014). ''Encyclopedia of World Geography, Volume 1''. Infobase Publishing. Page 28. {{ISBN|9780816072293}}.</ref> or one of the best in the world as a whole.<ref>Creason, Pam (1993). ''Geography''. Page 588. {{ISBN|9780890843772}}.</ref>

Pago Pago is a port of call for South Pacific [[cruise ship]]s, including [[Norwegian Cruise Line]]<ref name="ncl">{{cite web|url=https://www.ncl.com/port-of-call/cruises-to-pago-pago|website=ncl.com|title=Welcome|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171026002655/https://www.ncl.com/port-of-call/cruises-to-pago-pago|archive-date=October 26, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> and [[Princess Cruises]].<ref name="princess">{{cite web|url=https://www.princess.com/excursion/exlistfordestination.page?t=I&exType=S&portid=PPG|website=princess.com|title=Princess Cruises : Pago Pago, American Samoa|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171026001722/https://www.princess.com/excursion/exlistfordestination.page?t=I&exType=S&portid=PPG|archive-date=October 26, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> However, cruise ships do not take on passengers in Pago Pago, but typically arrive in the morning and depart in the afternoon. Thirteen cruise ships were scheduled to visit Pago Pago in 2017, bringing 31,000 visitors.<ref name="radionz2">{{cite web|url=http://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/322556/thirteen-cruise-ships-to-visit-american-samoa|title=Thirteen cruise ships to visit American Samoa|website=Radio New Zealand News|date=17 January 2017|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171026002111/http://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/322556/thirteen-cruise-ships-to-visit-american-samoa|archive-date=October 26, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Pago Pago Harbor can accommodate two cruise ships at the same time, and has done so on several occasions.<ref name="cruiseindustrynews2">{{cite web|url=http://www.cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/17229-american-samoa-targets-expedition-market.html|title=American Samoa Targets Expedition Market - Cruise Industry News {{pipe}} Cruise News|website=cruiseindustrynews.com|date=20 June 2017|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170620142955/https://www.cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/17229-american-samoa-targets-expedition-market.html|archive-date=June 20, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[Pago Pago International Airport]] (PPG) is located at [[Tafuna, American Samoa|Tafuna]], {{convert|8|mi|km|spell=in}} southwest of Pago Pago. There are international flights to Samoa 4–7 times daily by [[Polynesian Airlines]]:<ref name="americansamoaport.as.gov"/> Pago Pago is a 35-minute flight from Apia in Samoa. Most flights are to and from [[Fagali'i Airport|Fagali'i]].<ref name="Stanley-2004"/>{{rp|512}}<ref name="as2">{{cite web|url=http://americansamoaport.as.gov/about-us/general-information.html|title=Port Information - American Samoa {{pipe}} Department of Port Administration|website=americansamoaport.as.gov|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171208011010/http://americansamoaport.as.gov/about-us/general-information.html|archive-date=December 8, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> There is only one flight destination from the territory to the United States: [[Honolulu International Airport]], a five-hour flight from Pago Pago by [[Hawaiian Airlines]]. Of the 88,650 international arrivals in 2001, only 10 percent were tourists. The rest came to visit relatives, for employment reasons, or in transit. Most international visitors are from the independent country of Samoa.<ref name="Stanley-2004"/>{{rp|468–469}}

Scheduled intra-territorial flights are available to the islands of Ta{{okina}}ū and Ofu, which take 30 minutes by air from Pago Pago.

A ferry called {{MV|Lady Naomi}} runs between Pago Pago and [[Apia, Samoa]], once a week.<ref>Atkinson, Brett (2016). ''Lonely Planet Rarotonga, Samoa & Tonga''. Lonely Planet Publications. Page 163. {{ISBN|9781786572172}}.</ref>

Bus and taxi services are based in Fagatogo.<ref name="frommers">{{cite web|url=http://www.frommers.com/destinations/american-samoa/planning-a-trip|title=Planning a Trip in American Samoa {{pipe}} Frommer's|website=frommers.com|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171030085252/http://www.frommers.com/destinations/american-samoa/planning-a-trip|archive-date=October 30, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Historical sites==
[[File:WW_II_fortification_hidden_above_harbour_mouth_-_panoramio.jpg|thumb|right|220px|[[Blunts Point Battery]] is a U.S. National Historic Landmark.]]
Sixteen remaining structures from the [[U.S. Naval Station Tutuila Historic District]] are listed on the [[U.S. National Register of Historic Places]]. These include the [[Government House (American Samoa)|Government House]], [[Courthouse of American Samoa]], [[Jean P. Haydon Museum]], [[Navy Building 38]], and other buildings.

===World War II fortifications===
Near Pila F. Palu Co. Inc. Store, a road runs up the hill into [[Happy Valley, American Samoa|Happy Valley]], and on the side of this road, six World War II ammunition bunkers can be seen on the left before reaching a dirt road. The dirt road, also located on the left side, leads to a big concrete bunker which was used as naval communications headquarters during World War II.<ref name="Stanley-1996">Stanley, David (1996). ''South Pacific Handbook''. David Stanley. {{ISBN|9781566910408}}.</ref>{{rp|411–412}} Over fifty [[Pillbox (fortification)|pillbox fortifications]] can be found along the coastline on Tutuila Island. The largest of these is the [[United States Marine Corps|Marine Corps]] communication bunker in Pago Pago.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.nps.gov/media/photo/gallery-item.htm?id=C5856F3A-D09D-FD8E-590D1FF780564C0A&gid=EEE1A89D-155D-4519-3E950CEB0211ACCA |title=Gallery Item Display |access-date=2019-08-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190824020001/https://www.nps.gov/media/photo/gallery-item.htm?id=C5856F3A-D09D-FD8E-590D1FF780564C0A&gid=EEE1A89D-155D-4519-3E950CEB0211ACCA |archive-date=2019-08-24 |url-status=live }}</ref> It is located in the [[Autapini]] area, which is between [[Malaloa, American Samoa|Malaloa]] and Happy Valley.<ref name="Stanley-1996"/>{{rp|416–417}}

During World War II, guns were emplaced at [[Blunts Point Battery|Blunt's]] and [[Breakers Point Naval Guns|Breaker's Points]], covering [[Pago Pago Harbor]].<ref name="Rottman-2002"/>{{rp|85–86}}

==Flora==
At one time there were a number of [[mangrove forest]]s around the Pago Pago area, but these are now all gone, with the exception of a few scattered individual trees surviving at [[Aiia]] on the east side of Pago Pago Bay. No trace of mangroves are longer found within [[Fagatogo, American Samoa|Fagatogo]] village limits, thus contradicting its name (“bay of mangroves).<ref>Whistler, W. Arthur (April 1980): “The Vegetation of Eastern Samoa”. [[Pacific Tropical Botanical Garden]]. Page 104. Retrieved on November 30, 2024, from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/349619846_The_Vegetation_of_Eastern_Samoa</ref>

==Fauna==
[[Green sea turtle|Black turtles]] and [[Hawksbill sea turtle|Hawksbill turtles]] have been recorded in [[Pago Pago Harbor]]. The area also attracts seabirds like the [[Crested tern]] and the [[Blue-gray noddy]], which are known to roost and nest nearby. The [[Cardinal Honeyeater|Cardinal honey-eater]] frequents the ridges above Pago Pago, feeding on nectar from native plants. Additionally, the [[Wandering tattler]] has been spotted along a mountain stream just west of the town. The [[Black rat]] has also been recorded in Pago Pago.<ref>Amerson, A. Binion, W. Arthur Whistler, and Terry D. Schwaner (1982). “Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat of American Samoa II: Accounts of Flora and Fauna. [[U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service]].</ref>

The [[Red-vented bulbul]], an introduced bird species, has become widespread on Tutuila Island. It was first observed in Apia during the 1940s and later reported in Pago Pago in 1958. Another introduced species, the [[Rock dove]], has a more recent and less well-documented history in the Samoan Islands. Records from the 1950s indicate that a flock of 20 Rock Doves was kept by a family in Pago Pago during this period.<ref>Muse, Corey and Shirley (1982). ''The Birds and Birdlore of Samoa: O Manu Ma Tala'aga o Manu o Samoa''. [[Pioneer Press]]. Pages 87 and 117. {{ISBN|978-0-936546-05-6}}.</ref>

The [[Grey-backed tern]] is occasionally observed feeding within Pago Pago Harbor, while the [[Black noddy]] is frequently sighted flying over the same area. The [[Common myna]], an adaptable urban bird, is commonly encountered in the developed regions surrounding Pago Pago.<ref>Engbring, John and Fred L. Ramsey (1986). “A 1986 Survey of the Forest Birds of American Samoa”. [[U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service]].</ref>

== Recreation ==
[[File:Mount_'Alava.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The Mount ʻAlava Trail is the only hiking trail within the Pago Pago unit of the [[American Samoa National Park]].]]
The main trailhead for both [[Mount ʻAlava]] and [[Mount Matafao]] is located at the crest of Fagasā Pass, just above the [[Vaipito Valley]]. From this point the Mount ʻAlava Trail - the only hiking trail within the Pago Pago unit of the National Park of American Samoa<ref>Hunt, Errol (2000). ''South Pacific''. [[Lonely Planet Publications]]. Page 392. ISBN 9780864427175.</ref> - ascends to the 491-meter (1,611-foot) summit, while a separate trail on the opposite side of the road climbs toward Mount Matafao, the highest peak on Tutuila Island.<ref>Stanley, David (1989). ''South Pacific Handbook''. [[Moon Publications]]. Pages 358 and 362. ISBN 9780918373298.</ref>

The most popular hiking trail on the island is the World War II Heritage Trail, a 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) ridge walk that ends at Blunt’s Point. Along the way it skirts prehistoric archaeological features and a series of coastal gun emplacements installed in 1942–43 to repel a possible Japanese landing.<ref>https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/american-samoa-tramping-the-tropics/HFC4344M4WQQ7XHWSGOAFO4O4Y/?c_id=7&objectid=12158962</ref> Two short trails provide additional access to wartime fortifications: the Blunt’s Point Trail, a 0.6-kilometer (0.4-mile) climb up Matautu Ridge to the twin 6-inch naval guns of [[Blunts Point Battery]], and the Breakers Point Trail, a 0.5-kilometer (0.3-mile) path across Pago Pago Harbor that reaches [[Breakers Point Naval Guns]].<ref>https://www.nps.gov/npsa/planyourvisit/upload/day-hikes-sb_npsa_high-res.pdf</ref>

== Landmarks ==
[[File:GOVERNMENT HOUSE OR GOVERNOR'S MANSION.jpg|thumb|right|250px|[[Government House (American Samoa)|Government House]], on the Togotogo Ridge, appears on the [[National Register of Historic Places]].]]
[[File:Jean p haydon museum.png|thumb|right|250px|[[Architecture of Samoa|Fale]] outside Jean P. Haydon Museum]]
Landmarks include:<ref name="Grabowski-1992"/>{{rp|54}}<ref name="Swaney-1994"/>{{rp|167–169}}

* [[National Park of American Samoa]], immediately north of town
** NPS Visitor Center, exhibit and shop
* [[U.S. Naval Station Tutuila Historic District]], sixteen buildings are listed on the [[U.S. National Register of Historic Places]]
* [[Government House (American Samoa)|Government House]] is a colonial mansion atop Mauga o Ali'i (the chief's hill), which was erected in 1903
* [[American Samoa Fono|The Fono]] is the territorial legislature
* [[Courthouse of American Samoa|The Courthouse]] is a two-story colonial-style house listed on the [[U.S. National Register of Historic Places]]
* [[Jean P. Haydon Museum]] was constructed in 1917 and houses historical artifacts such as canoes. It is named for its founder, the wife of Governor [[John Morse Haydon]]
* [[Blunts Point Battery]], erected as a part of the fortification following the attack on [[Pearl Harbor]]<ref name="americansamoa2">{{cite web|url=https://www.americansamoa.gov/things-to-do-in-american-samoa?id=98&option=com_content&view=article|website=americansamoa.gov|title=american samoa|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020032839/https://www.americansamoa.gov/things-to-do-in-american-samoa?id=98&option=com_content&view=article|archive-date=October 20, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[Breakers Point Naval Guns]], World War II-era defensive fortification
* [[Rainmaker Mountain]] (Pioa Mountain), designated [[National Natural Landmark]]<ref name="Harris, Ann G 2004 Page 604"/>
* Utulei Beach, beach in [[Utulei, American Samoa|Utulei]]
* [[Navy Building 38]], historic radio station in [[Fagatogo]]
* [[Tauese PF Sunia Ocean Center]], visitor center for [[National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa]]
* Air Disaster Memorial, in Utulei. Monument for the eight deceased during a 1980 airplane crash

==In popular culture==
[[File:Sadiethompsonlobbycard.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The film ''[[Sadie Thompson (film)|Sadie Thompson]]'' (1928) is based on the story of a prostitute who arrives in Pago Pago.<ref>Moss, Marilyn (2011). ''Raoul Walsh: The True Adventures of Hollywood's Legendary Director''. University Press of Kentucky. Page 101. {{ISBN|9780813133942}}.</ref>]]
* ''[[Rain (short story)|Rain]]'' (1921) by [[W. Somerset Maugham]] is set in Pago Pago.<ref name="Stanley-2004"/>{{rp|463}}<ref>''Cruise Travel Vol. 2, No. 1'' (July 1980). Lakeside Publishing Co. Page 61. {{ISSN|0199-5111}}.</ref> Movie adaptions include ''[[Sadie Thompson (film)|Sadie Thompson]]'' (1928), ''[[Rain (1932 film)|Rain]]'' (1932), and ''[[Miss Sadie Thompson]]'' (1953).
* ''[[The Blonde Captive]]'' (1931) was filmed in Pago Pago.<ref name="American Film Institute 1993">American Film Institute (1993). ''The American Film Institute Catalog of Motion Pictures Produced in the United States, Volume 1''. University of California Press. Page 1111. {{ISBN|9780520079083}}.</ref>
* ''[[The Hurricane (1937 film)|The Hurricane]]'' (1937) and its sequel, [[Hurricane (1979 film)|Hurricane (1979)]], were set in Pago Pago. The 1937 film was filmed in Pago Pago.<ref name="American Film Institute 1993"/>
* The storyline in the film ''[[South of Pago Pago]]'' (1940) is set here. This movie was partly shot in Pago Pago, although most filming took place in [[Hawai'i]] and [[Long Beach, CA]].<ref>Reyes, Luis and Ed Rampell (1995). ''Made in paradise: Hollywood's films of Hawai'i and the South Seas''. Mutual Pub. Page 1940. {{ISBN|9781566470896}}.</ref>
* A jungle village resembling Pago Pago was created for motion picture in [[Two Harbors, California|Two Harbors]], [[Catalina Island, CA]].<ref>Fleming, E.J. (2008). ''Paul Bern: The Life and Famous Death of the MGM Director and Husband of Harlow''. McFarland. Page 73. {{ISBN|9780786452743}}.</ref> Several [[Rain (short story)|Sadie Thompson]] films were shot here.
* ''[[Lost and Found on a South Sea Island]]'' (1923) is set in Pago Pago.
* ''[[Next Goal Wins (2014 film)|Next Goal Wins]]'' (2014), British documentary filmed in Pago Pago.
* [[Samoa, California]] was named in honor of American Samoa. It was assumed that the harbor in Pago Pago looked similar to that of the town, and it consequentially got the name Samoa, CA in the 1890s.<ref>Capace, Nancy (1999). ''Encyclopedia of California''. North American Book Dist LLC. Page 399. {{ISBN|9780403093182}}.</ref>
* ''[[In the Sweet Pie and Pie]]'' (1941), [[The Three Stooges]] short. Pago Pago is mentioned as being one of the locations for the fictional Heedam Neckties stores.
* In ''[[Better Call Saul]]'' (2015), Saul Goodman graduated from the fictional American Samoa Law School.

== Notable people ==
[[File:Peter Tali Coleman.jpg|thumb|right|180px|[[Peter Tali Coleman|Peter T. Coleman]] was the first Governor of Samoan descent.]]
* [[Peter Tali Coleman]], 43rd, 51st, and 53rd [[Governor of American Samoa]]
* [[Al Harrington (actor)|Al Harrington]], actor most known for his role in ''[[Hawaii Five-O (1968 TV series)|Hawaii Five-O]]''<ref>Hunter, James Michael (2013). ''Mormons and Popular Culture: The Global Influence of an American Phenomenon''. Literature, art, media, tourism, and sports. Volume 2. ABC-CLIO. Page 237. {{ISBN|9780313391675}}.</ref>
* [[Gary Scott Thompson]], director and television producer<ref name="gstproductions">{{cite web|url=http://www.gstproductions.com/about.html|website=gstproductions.com|title=About|access-date=November 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171024043533/http://www.gstproductions.com/about.html|archive-date=October 24, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>
* [[John Kneubuhl]], screenwriter
* [[Lealaifuaneva Peter Eugene Reid]], businessman and Fautasi Racing Champion.<ref>Sutter, Frederic Koehler (1989). ''The Samoans: A Global Family''. [[University of Hawai'i Press]]. Page 209. {{ISBN|978-0-8248-1238-6}}.</ref>
* [[Mary Jewett Pritchard]], [[Siapo]] artist.<ref>Sutter, Frederic Koehler (1989). ''The Samoans: A Global Family''. [[University of Hawai'i Press]]. Page 210. {{ISBN|978-0-8248-1238-6}}.</ref>
* [[Shalom Luani]], NFL player for the [[Los Angeles Chargers]]
* [[Mauga Moi Moi]], paramount [[Aliʻi]], signatory of the [[Treaty of Cession of Tutuila|Deed of Cession]], and initiator of the [[Mau movement in American Samoa|Mau movement]].
* [[Junior Siavii]], Former NFL player for the [[Kansas City Chiefs]], [[Dallas Cowboys]], and the [[Seattle Seahawks]]
* [[Jonathan Fanene]], Former NFL player for the [[Cincinnati Bengals]]
* [[Mosi Tatupu]], Former NFL player for the [[New England Patriots]], and the [[Los Angeles Rams]]
* [[Shaun Nua]], Former NFL player for the [[Pittsburgh Steelers]]
* [[Isaac Sopoaga]], Former NFL player for the [[San Francisco 49ers]], [[Philadelphia Eagles]], [[New England Patriots]], and the [[Arizona Cardinals]]
* [[Daniel Te{{okina}}o-Nesheim]], Former NFL player for the [[Philadelphia Eagles]], and the [[Tampa Bay Buccaneers]]
* [[Frank Solomon]], rugby player
* [[Faauuga Muagututia]], US Navy Seal and Winter Olympic competitor
* [[Violeta Shafer Tavai Lea’e Dilauro]], Samoan American Cultural Liaison in Philadelphia and advocate for Samoan athletes.<ref>Sutter, Frederic Koehler (1989). ''The Samoans: A Global Family''. [[University of Hawaiʻi Press]]. Page 192. {{ISBN|978-0-8248-1238-6}}.</ref>
* [[Amata Coleman Radewagen]], [[Delegate (United States Congress)|Delegate]] in the [[U.S. House of Representatives]]
* [[Fofó Iosefa Fiti Sunia]], first non-voting Delegate from American Samoa to the U.S. House of Representatives
* [[Palauni Ma Sun]], American football offensive lineman
* [[Monica Galetti]], UK-based chef and restauranteur
* [[Joey Iosefa]], football player
* [[Mabel Reid]], first woman elected to the [[American Samoa House of Representatives]].<ref>Sunia, Fofō Iosefa Fiti (2001). ''Puputoa: Host of Heroes - A record of the history makers in the First Century of American Samoa, 1900-2000''. Suva, Fiji: Oceania Printers. Page 114. {{ISBN|982-9036-02-2}}.</ref>
* [[Bob Apisa]], football player
* [[Domata Peko]], football player
* [[Isaako Aaitui]], football player
* [[Kennedy Polamalu]], football coach and former player
* [[Gabe Reid]], former football tight end for the NFL's Chicago Bears
* [[Nicky Salapu]], soccer player
* [[Trevor Misipeka]], football player
* [[Cocoa Samoa]], wrestler
* [[Mighty Mo (kickboxer)|Mighty Mo]], kickboxer
* [[Mageo Felise]], member of the [[American Samoa House of Representatives]] and [[American Samoa Senate|Senate]]. Founded several Catholic schools in the territory.<ref>Sunia, Fofō Iosefa Fiti (2001). ''Puputoa: Host of Heroes - A record of the history makers in the First Century of American Samoa, 1900-2000''. Suva, Fiji: Oceania Printers. Page 82. {{ISBN|982-9036-02-2}}.</ref>

== See also ==
* [[List of reduplicated place names]]

== References ==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
{{commons category|Pago Pago}}
{{Wiktionary|Pago Pago}}
* [http://www.prh.noaa.gov/samoa/ Pago Pago, American Samoa] National Weather Service Office
* [http://www.weatherunderground.com/global/stations/91765.html Pago Pago] Weather underground
* [http://search.census.gov/search?utf8=%E2%9C%93&affiliate=census&query=tafuna&commit.x=0&commit.y=0 Census-2010] Population

{{American Samoa}}
{{List of Oceanian capitals by region}}
{{United States state capitals}}

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Pago Pago| ]]
[[Category:Tutuila]]
[[Category:Villages in American Samoa]]
[[Category:Capitals in Oceania]]
[[Category:Port cities in Oceania]]