August Hettig Collection: Photographing Tonga through the 20th century
August Hettig also known as Okusi/Aokosi Heti in Tonga. Portrait cropped from Auckland Libraries Heritage Collections 1951-060-008. https://kura.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/digital/collection/photographers/id/5581/ From royal ceremonies to community and village life, the story of 20th century Tonga is vividly documented through the lens of August Hettig. For more than 50 years, Tonga's only resident professional photographer captured the everyday moments that shaped the Kingdom during a period when much of its history was recorded through colonial narratives. Where written accounts often failed to reflect the richness and diversity of Tongan life, Hettig's camera offered an invaluable visual record. The August Hettig Collection is now cared for by Auckland Council Libraries and highlights the cultural vibrancy of Tonga throughout the 20th century. Who was August Hettig? August Hettig was of German and Tongan heritage. From around 1916 until his death in 1974, he was for ...