2-982-080 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Apia, Samoa, Navigators' Islands, 1876. View after a sketch by Lieutenant Nassau Stephens, of the Royal Marine Light Infantry. 'The islands are most beautiful, water plentiful, and the banana, taro, and sweet potato, with fish, supply the wants of the islanders without requiring any care. There are several missionaries on the islands, and a large Roman Catholic church and school....The canoes are beautifully constructed, and capable of attaining a speed of six knots an hour under paddles, or sailing much faster'. From "Illustrated London News", 1876.