The Fagatogo malae is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was nominated by then Historic Preservation Officer Stan Sorenson in 1990 and was registered as part of the US Naval Station Tutuila Historic District.
Here’s a description of the malae’s historical significance in the nomination form that’s recorded in the national register.
“Parade ground: Situated south of the main road, the parade ground or malae was the ceremonial center of the naval station. Here the Fita Fita Guard and band trained and performed Here great feasts and native dances, (sivas) were held on special occasions. The five sided parade (ground) was, and is, grass covered. On the southeast. The striking Fita Fita barracks, Samoan jail, and bakery gleam white against the green jungle. Other navy buildings, now gone, marked the southwest and west sides. In navy days, a large theater lay beyond the main road to the north. Since then the new, dramatic legislative buildings have replaced the theater. The parade ground’s overall dimensions are 210 feet by 500 feet. It continues to function as the commons, the focal point of the capital of American Samoa.”
A group of Fagatogo residents protesting against the paving of a section of the malae for playcourts and parking, directly in front of the Fagatogo Pavilion, have raised their concerns with the Historic Preservation Office.
A representative of the group who visited the ASPHO yesterday said he got confirmation that the Fagtogo malae is listed on the federal register of historic places. As such any project that is undertaken at the malae should be routed through ASHPO which doesn’t appear to have been done in this instance, according to the village representative. 
Meanwhile the group of protestors plan to hold another demonstration this afternoon at the Fagatogo malae.
Governor Lolo Moliga has told KHJ News that the courts and parking have been built in response to requests from village leaders and church ministers. and will be used by Fagatogo residents.
Photos: AS Historic Preservation Office
