PICTURES OF CHANGE IN PARADISE in American Samoa (circa 1910)

Karen Wheat lives in Grand Haven, MI with her husband, Richard Meads. Karen is the niece of Joseph L. Dwyer, who was Secretary to the Commandant in American Samoa (1907-1913). Dwyer was the Collector of the 55 Photographs presented in this book from the leather-bound picture album (with captions under each photo) which was passed down to her via grandmother's and an aunt. The professional photographer is unknown. Karen is the mother of four adult children and grandmother to seven grandchildren. She is a graduate of Northwood University with a degree in Executive Secretarial Science. She has traveled to American Samoa numerous times interviewing the people there concerning the photos, researching and taking part and enjoying cultural events plus happily living in the village of Leone for extended periods of time. In an indigenous Samoan art class taught by Reggie Meredith, she learned about the fine art of siapo (tapa design), Samoan mat making and Samoan pottery. It is Karen's hope that the photographs in this book facilitate the preservation of the fine art of siapo, the weaving of fine mats, siva dancing and music, traditional oratory skills, the kava ceremony and the patriotism of those who serve in the United States military. Four of the buildings in the Dwyer Collection are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. She is grateful to have had this meaningful cultural experience and this opportunity to share it. Karen won a bronze award from the Nonfiction Author's Association for History for this book, Pictures of Change in Paradise in American Samoa (circa 1910).