On Mission Hill, overlooking the stunning Levuka Harbour, stands Lomaloma House, one of Fiji’s oldest residences, dating back to the 1800s. This bungalow-style property has been a significant part of the port town’s landscape since it was registered in 1876 and continues to embody the colonial heritage of Levuka.
Built with exceptional craftsmanship from Oregon, Lomaloma House has withstood numerous tropical cyclones, the impacts of climate change, and the challenges of Fiji’s fluctuating political landscape. Its sole resident, 71-year-old Suliana Sandys, is the great-granddaughter of Frederick Vollmer, a German trader who arrived in Fiji seeking a new life during the colonial era. Vollmer was drawn to Fiji, perhaps by tales of the lucrative sandalwood and beche-de-mer trade, and became a well-known figure, even serving as mayor of Levuka in 1912.
Suliana, who has spent almost her entire life in Lomaloma House, cherishes the memories intertwined within its walls. She fondly recalls her upbringing in a tightly-knit community where respect and etiquette were paramount. Her mother, Melaia Vollmer, was instrumental in instilling these values in their family. After her mother’s untimely passing, Suliana made the decision to remain in Levuka to care for her younger siblings, prioritizing family over opportunities to leave for urban areas.
Throughout her life, Suliana dedicated herself to education, teaching a variety of subjects for 25 years at Levuka Public School. Despite receiving offers for more lucrative positions elsewhere, she has never harbored regrets about staying true to her roots in Levuka. “Money and fortune is not everything,” she asserts, highlighting her deep connection to her heritage and community.
In recent years, however, Suliana has observed a shift in community values, lamenting a decrease in respect and care for communal spaces among younger generations. There is a notable contrast between the Levuka she remembers and today’s reality, where many communities grapple with changes brought about by modernity and social influences.
Suliana faces the ongoing challenge of maintaining Lomaloma House, a responsibility she takes seriously, ensuring that precious heirlooms and rich memories are preserved. Among the oldest items in the house are a hardwood table and plant stand that date back to the 19th century and are remnants of her great-grandfather’s legacy.
Reflecting on the past, Suliana emphasizes the importance of community and the bonds they share. The stories of her family, particularly her ancestors’ journey to Fiji, serve as a beacon of hope, resilience, and a reminder of the fabric of Levuka’s society.
This narrative not only pays homage to the historical significance of Lomaloma House but also embodies the spirit of enduring familial love and community ties, showcasing how the past continues to inform and inspire present generations in Fiji.
Overall, Suliana’s commitment to her heritage and her home presents a hopeful vision for the future, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural identities and fostering respect among communities.
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