From humble beginnings
An Idea Is Born
Bradley Wood, a long-time resident of Espiritu Santo, received an extensive collection of World War II memorabilia from an American living on the nearby island of Aore, who was preparing to return home.
At the same time, the Lord Mayor of Luganville asked Bradley for an idea to inspire and enrich the town. The goal was to create an iconic centerpiece that would boost tourism in the area.
These two unrelated events got Bradley thinking. He decided to meet with four other passionate locals living on Santo. They all shared a deep love for the island’s history and natural beauty.
It quickly became clear that their project should benefit the people of Santo and Vanuatu as a whole. The idea was to preserve and honor the World War II history that their home is a part of.
Over the next few months, Bradley, along with Dave Cross, Bill Widup, Jim Bennie, and Mayumi Green, met with Peter Sakita. Peter represented the Luganville council. They discussed several ideas with him. These meetings eventually gave birth to the idea for a World War II museum.
The Perfect Location
The South Pacific World War II Museum will stand on a stretch of land at the opening of the Sarakata River, on the western end of Luganville township. This photograph, taken during the American occupation of Vanuatu in World War II, captures part of the vast Navy base built in that area. The section shaded in blue marks the future museum’s location near the river’s mouth. For a closer look at the area, click the image to view a high-resolution version. You can find more historical images of Santo during World War II in our Historical Gallery.
With the stroke of a pen
A moment worth celebrating. South Pacific World War II Museum Committee members complete the signing of the lease for the land in Luganville . The signing ceremony took place at the Lunganville town hall. The lease was officially signed by the Minister of Lands, Hon Ralph Regenvanu representing the Vanuatu government, Luganville mayor Mr Onen Gaviga and our Chairman Bradley Wood.
