History of Wewak

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of the area where Wewak is located today dates back to ancient times, when these lands were inhabited by indigenous tribes adapted to life by the ocean and in the jungle. The city began to take shape as a modern administrative centre in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, during the period of German and subsequently Australian colonial presence on the island. Initially, it was a small settlement serving as an outpost for missionaries and traders developing the northern coast.

Key Factors of Development

The development of the city from a small station into the capital of the East Sepik Province in the state of Papua New Guinea was predetermined by a number of strategic factors:

• Geography and Navigation: A favourable location on the coast with a sheltered harbour allowed for the creation of a port necessary for communication with the outside world.
• Access to Resources: The city became a "gateway" to the Sepik River basin, providing logistics for trade and expeditions deep into the island.
• Strategic Importance: In the mid-20th century, the availability of suitable sites for infrastructure creation (including an airfield) made this place an important hub in the region.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The economy of the early period was based primarily on agriculture and the copra trade. Local plantations played an important role in the region's livelihood. Culturally, the city has always been closely linked to the traditions of the Sepik River peoples, known for their unique art—wood carving, mask making, and the construction of "spirit houses". This blend of colonial architecture and a powerful layer of local culture has given the city a special, recognisable appearance from the very beginning.

Major Historical Milestones

The history of this region is rich in events reflecting the path from a colonial post to an important administrative centre. Below is a chronology of key moments that have shaped the modern appearance of the city.

• 1884: The territory of the region officially becomes part of the German New Guinea protectorate, beginning a period of European colonial influence.
• 1914: At the start of the First World War, control over the lands passes to Australia, displacing the German administration.
• 1921: The League of Nations grants Australia a mandate to administer the territory, which consolidates the administrative status of the region's settlements.
• 18 December 1942: During the Second World War, Japanese troops occupy Wewak, beginning the construction of the largest airbase on the island.
• 1943–1944: The city is subjected to massive bombing by Allied aviation, leading to significant destruction of infrastructure.
• 13 September 1945: At Cape Wom, located near the city, Lieutenant General Adachi signs the instrument of surrender for the Japanese 18th Army.
• Late 1940s: A large-scale reconstruction programme begins, transforming the former military base into a civilian administrative centre.
• 16 September 1975: The city becomes part of the independent state of Papua New Guinea, retaining the status of the capital of East Sepik Province.
• 1980s: Active development of the seaport promotes the growth of agricultural exports from the Sepik River valley.
• 2000s: Modernisation of the airport strengthens the city's role as the main transport hub of the north-western part of the country.
• 2021: The city becomes the final resting place of Sir Michael Somare, the "Father of the Nation" and the country's first Prime Minister, whose life was closely connected with this region.

Path of Transformation: From Military Base to Regional Centre

The development of the city of Wewak was non-linear, influenced by global conflicts and local economic shifts. Today, it is a key node connecting the coast with the island's hinterlands. Below are the main stages and processes that defined the city's modern look and status.

• Post-War Reconstruction and Urbanisation
  After the destruction of the Second World War, the city was practically rebuilt from scratch based on former military infrastructure.
  Significance: The adaptation of military roads and airfields for civilian needs laid the foundation for the modern street network and transport accessibility of the city.
• Establishment as an Administrative Centre
  Securing the status of the capital of East Sepik Province for the city required the construction of government buildings and social facilities.
  Significance: Centralisation of management turned the city into a point of attraction for the region's residents, stimulating population growth and the development of the service sector.
• Development of the Commercial Seaport
  The arrangement of a deep-water harbour allowed for the reception of cargo ships for the export of local resources (copra, cocoa, coffee).
  Significance: The port became the economic heart of the region, integrating the agrarian areas of the province into the international trade of Papua New Guinea.
• Formation of the "Gateway to the Sepik" Status
  The city occupied the niche of the main logistics hub for expeditions into the Sepik River basin.
  Significance: This strategic position gave impetus to the development of the tourism industry, hotels, and agencies focused on ethnographic tourism.
• Modernisation of Boram Airport
  Expansion and renovation of the runway and terminal to accommodate modern aircraft.
  Significance: Reliable air connection with the capital and other provinces is critically important for business and population mobility given the country's complex landscape.
• Creation of Cultural Exchange Centres
  Organisation of markets and festivals where artisans from remote villages can present their crafts.
  Significance: The city has become a showcase for the unique art of the Sepik region, which contributes to the preservation of traditions and attracts culture enthusiasts from all over the world.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architecture of Wewak is a reflection of its complex destiny, where traditional Melanesian motifs intertwine with the functionality of colonial development and the legacy of wartime. The city cannot boast ancient Baroque palaces or Gothic cathedrals; its appearance was formed under the influence of the tropical climate and the necessity of recovery after the destruction of the Second World War.

Main Construction Stages and Stylistic Features

The urban development of the city progressed from chaotic coastal settlements to a structured administrative centre. The modern look of the city is an eclectic mix in which several key directions can be highlighted:

• Traditional Architecture (Vernacular Architecture):
  Local materials are still widely used in residential areas and on the outskirts. Lightweight structures made of wood, bamboo, and sago palm leaves ("sago") are perfectly adapted to the heat. This "green" style exists outside of time, providing natural ventilation.
• Australian Colonial Style (1950s–1970s):
  The period of active reconstruction brought characteristic "tropical bungalows" to the city. This style is characterised by:
  • Buildings raised on stilts for protection against dampness.
  • Wide roof overhangs and verandas creating shade.
  • The use of louvered windows for cross-ventilation.
• Modern Functionalism (since 1975):
  After Papua New Guinea gained independence, the city's administrative centre was replenished with concrete structures. Banks, government offices, and shopping centres are built in the style of utilitarian modernism: simple geometric shapes, minimal decoration, and an emphasis on seismic stability and durability.

Landmark Districts and Objects

The layout of the city is clearly divided by terrain into the "upper" and "lower" town, each having its own architectural character.

• Wewak Hill: A prestigious area on high ground where residences and hotels are concentrated. The atmosphere of colonial comfort has been preserved here, with well-maintained gardens and low-rise buildings oriented towards panoramic views of the ocean.
• Commercial Centre (Town): Located by the harbour, this area represents a dense development of shops and warehouses. Here, the architecture is strictly pragmatic, with concrete and metal dominating.
• Christ the King Cathedral: An interesting example of modern religious architecture. The building stands out for its design, which stylistically reinterprets the form of the traditional "spirit houses" (Haus Tambaran) of the Sepik region, symbolising the connection between faith and local culture.
• Cape Wom Memorial Park: An important landscape-architectural ensemble. Although not a building, the strict geometry of the Japanese surrender memorial is an essential element shaping the historical space of the city.

Notable Figures

The history of the city and the region is inextricably linked with the names of people whose activities influenced not only the development of the province but also the fate of the entire country. From national leaders to military commanders and educators, these figures have left a noticeable mark on the chronicles of Wewak.

• Sir Michael Somare
  First Prime Minister, "Father of the Nation"
  A key figure in the history of the state's independence. Wewak was his political citadel and home throughout his career. Somare represented the East Sepik Province in parliament for nearly half a century. His tomb on Kreer Heights within the city limits is a place of national reverence.
• Hatazō Adachi
  Lieutenant General of the Imperial Japanese Army
  Commander of the Japanese 18th Army during the Second World War, whose headquarters was located in this region. His name is forever linked to the history of the city, as it was he who signed the instrument of surrender at Cape Wom, marking the end of hostilities in Papua New Guinea.
• Leo Arkfeld
  Catholic Archbishop, "The Flying Bishop"
  A legendary missionary based in Wewak. He personally piloted light aircraft, making thousands of flights to deliver medicines, teachers, and building materials to remote villages in the Sepik River valley, laying the foundations for the region's modern social infrastructure.
• Bernard Narokobi
  Philosopher, Lawyer, Diplomat
  A native of East Sepik Province whose activities were closely intertwined with the administrative centre. Author of the philosophical concept "The Melanesian Way", he played an important role in shaping the country's constitution and strengthening the cultural identity of the region.
• Allan Bird
  Politician, Governor of the Province
  A modern statesman actively working on the economic development of Wewak and its surroundings. Known for his fight for the rights of local agrarians and the modernisation of agriculture, which directly affects the prosperity of the city as a trading centre.