Our History
The story of Herman’s Modern Bakery is one of resilience, family, and community. Discover how a small bake shop in post-war Saipan grew into a beloved island institution.
1944: Humble Beginnings
The ending of the Battle of Saipan in 1944 saw the beginning of Herman’s Bakery when its founder, Herman Delos Reyes Deleon Guerrero, who, as a teenager, apprenticed at Shimada’s Bakery in Garapan, raised his hand when the U.S. military administrators at the civilian encampment known as Camp Susupe called for volunteers who knew how to bake bread. Herman had the skills and stepped up. That’s where it all started.
After the Chamorro and Carolinian residents were relocated to Chalan Kanoa from Camp Susupe in November of 1944, Herman continued to provide bread for the residents. The US Military gave him the equipment and surplus military materials and supplies needed to continue on the baking path to success. Herman established the first business on Saipan and created a bakery facility in an existing military Quonset hut where the U.S. Post Office is now located and where Herman’s remained in operation until 1979 when the move was made to its current location on what was formerly known as Airport Road (now Chalan Tun Herman Pan).
A Family and Community Legacy
Known in the community as “Tun Herman Pan” (bread), he and his wife, Maria Tenorio Guerrero (better known as Tan Marikita), spent the next twenty-eight years dedicated to raising their family of eleven children and providing bakery products to the people of Saipan. Herman and Maria were known for their generosity and frequently gave away their bread to those in need, and were particularly close to the Mercedarian Sisters. The Guerrero’s were instrumental in the building of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Chalan Kanoa, and upon completion, their son, Juan, was the first to be baptized after the church’s opening on December 14, 1949.
As the years went by, Herman’s Bakery continued to be a staple in providing bread to the local community, overcoming challenges such as power shortages, supply delays, and the need for new equipment. The bakery’s growth was supported by dedicated staff, family, and friends, all working together to ensure fresh bread was available daily.
Growth, Innovation, and Tradition
Over the decades, Herman’s Modern Bakery introduced new products, expanded its facilities, and embraced innovation while honoring tradition. From the first “traditional” turkey meals for Thanksgiving to the introduction of sweet bread and pan toasta, the bakery adapted to the needs of the community and the growing tourism industry.
The bakery’s success was built on hard work, family support, and a commitment to quality. New equipment, dedicated bakers, and strong partnerships helped Herman’s thrive, even through challenges like flooding and power outages.
A Lasting Legacy
Today, Herman’s Modern Bakery is a thriving bakery, café, and catering service with 140 employees. Now in its third and fourth generations, the Guerrero family continues the legacy of Tun Herman and Tan Maria, serving the people of Saipan and beyond with the same dedication, generosity, and love that started it all in 1944.
The Guerrero family extends its Un Dangkulu na Si Yu’us Ma’ase to the community, business partners, loyal patrons, and all who have supported Herman’s through the years. Thank you for being part of our story!