At the northern end of Levuka Town, there exists a historically rich residence known as The Sailors Home, distinguished by its striking turquoise exterior. Constructed in 1860 by a ship carpenter who arrived in Levuka aboard a ship of the same name, The Sailors Home is regarded as the oldest surviving colonial residence in Fiji.
Historical records indicate that the builder was responsible for constructing three homes in Levuka, two of which are situated on Mission Hill, located just up from the famous 199 steps that connect the town to the hillside. While one of these homes was destroyed by fire and another was damaged by a hurricane, The Sailors Home has withstood the test of time thanks to its Canadian Oregon timber construction, designed to endure harsh weather conditions.
The architecture of The Sailors Home features a single stud-bolted timber structure, with floors sloping towards the exterior, which resembles the deck of a ship. Old photographs reveal that it once stood near Cakobau’s Parliament on Niukabe Hill. According to records from the United States Exploring Expedition in 1840, Levuka was home to “about forty houses,” yet it remains unclear if The Sailors Home was included among them at that time.
The property derives its name from a steamship that operated between England and China in the 1850s. Additionally, it is noted in David Stanley’s 2004 book, Moon Handbooks South Pacific, that the term ‘Sailors Home’ was used for various lodging facilities for seafarers in multiple port cities around the world during the 19th century. The residence has changed ownership only a handful of times, with the Patterson family—a significant player in the local shipping industry—being one of its previous owners.
In 2001, the home was sold to its current owner, Lisa Ditrich, who has undertaken gradual restorations to maintain its heritage while adding modern comforts. Ditrich emphasizes her commitment to preserving the historical essence of the house. The Sailors Home now serves as a homestay, offering visitors an opportunity to experience both relaxation and a journey into Fiji’s colonial past.
This charming residence stands as a notable attraction in Levuka, appealing to various types of travelers, from those seeking tranquility to adventurous souls eager to explore a significant piece of Fiji’s history.
The ongoing restoration efforts reflect a broader trend in Levuka aimed at preserving its unique colonial architecture and cultural heritage, further enhancing its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Thus, The Sailors Home not only represents an era gone by but also showcases a hopeful perspective for the ongoing appreciation of Fiji’s rich historical narratives.
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