Exhibit Opening
Window on a Community: Nikkei Farmers of the Hood River Area
Exhibition dates: August 26, 2007 - January 6, 2008

Opening reception: Sunday, August 26, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

ONLC will host Window on a Community, a new exhibit presenting and celebrating the early history of the first generation Japanese settlers in the Hood River area. The exhibit opens on Sunday, August 26, with a public reception from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. The show will remain on view until January 6, 2008.

The Nikkei community of Hood River was one of the largest and earliest established Japanese communities in the state of Oregon outside of Portland. Agriculture was a significant occupation for many area residents, and that proud tradition is still carried on today by many families. This new exhibit gives insight into how the Hood River area Issei got started, struggled, and persevered in the growth of a community.

Japanese immigrants began to arrive in the Hood River area by 1900. Hopes and dreams brought them to this verdant valley along the Columbia River, with the promise of a better life and good fortune in America, adventure, and new opportunities. The Issei, the first generation, exuded courage and determination in common. They traveled from many parts of Japan, settling in the Pacific Northwest and building a strong, vibrant community in Oregon's Hood River area. Shinbo - the Japanese principle of patience, endurance and perseverance - guided their paths.

The Nikkei community of Hood River was one of the largest and earliest established Japanese communities in the state of Oregon outside of Portland. Agriculture, including vegetable growing and fruit orchards, was a significant occupation for many area residents, and that proud tradition is still carried on today by many families. Visitors to the exhibit will learn about how the Hood River area Issei got started in early occupations, early starts in orchards, and the growth of the community.

U.S. immigration policy and land laws affected the lives of the Issei, before and during World War II. The entire community was removed to U.S. concentration camps on or before May 13, 1942. These events, and rebuilding their lives after World War II, are disucssed. Many wonderful, previously unpublished photographs are included.

Window on a Community is curated by the Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center and has been funded in part by the Oregon Heritage Commission, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center
121 NW 2nd Avenue
Portland, OR 97209
503-224-1458
www.oregonnikkei.org