Aghurubw

Aghurubw (pronounced AH-guh-rue-b) was a Carolinian (Refaluwasch) Chief and navigator who led his people from Satawal to what is now Saipan (a commonwealth of the United States in the Western Pacific Ocean) in the early 19th century.

[1] After an 1815 typhoon destroyed life on their home island of Satawal, Chief Aghurubw of the Ghatoliyool clan and Chief Nguschul (pronounced NU-GU-SCHUL) of Elato asked permission from the Spanish Governor, Farallon de Medinilla, for their people to settle on the Island of Saipan.

Aghurubw received a legal certificate and the traditional symbols of a leader, a cane and a tall black hat.

[12] After his death in Arabwal, Chief Aghurubw was buried in Mañagaha (Ghalaghal) island, where a statue now stands of him.

[15][16] The people of Saipan celebrate 'Chief Aghurubw Day', a holiday which is an important part of the Refaluwasch culture on the CNMI.

A bird's-eye view image of the island of Saipan
A full map of Tinian
The area where Aghurubw was buried by his family, in accordance with wishes expressed during his life. This area is a mile away from the area of Saipan to which Aghurubw brought the people he led.
The entrance to American Memorial Park, where Arabwal is located. [ 8 ] The park has memorials to WW2 victims as well.