Japanese American Internment Museum facts for kids

The Japanese American Internment Museum is a special history museum in McGehee, Arkansas. It is also known as the WWII Japanese American Internment Museum. Another name for it is the Jerome-Rohwer Interpretive Museum & Visitor Center.

This museum teaches visitors about a tough time in American history. During World War II, many Japanese Americans were forced to leave their homes. They were sent to special camps called "internment camps." More than 17,000 Japanese Americans were held at nearby Rohwer War Relocation Center and Jerome War Relocation Center.

The museum shows films, old stories from people who were there, and photos. You can also see personal items and art made by those held in the camps. The museum even has a library with books about the Japanese American experience.

You can also visit the remains of the Rohwer War Relocation Center. It is about 17 miles from the museum. There you will find a memorial, a cemetery, and signs that explain the history.

The museum first opened on April 16, 2013. It is located in the old McGehee Railroad Depot building. It is part of the Arkansas State University Heritage Sites.

A famous actor and activist named George Takei spoke at the museum's opening. He was held in one of these camps as a child. You can hear his voice on some of the museum's audio displays.

What You'll See at the Museum

The museum has many interesting things to explore. It helps visitors understand what life was like for Japanese Americans during World War II.

Special Art Exhibits

Sometimes, the museum features art by Nancy Chikaraishi. Her artwork shows the struggles of Japanese Americans in the camps. Nancy and her parents were held at the Rohwer camp. Her art includes charcoal drawings, sculptures, and paintings. They all tell the story of their experiences.

Awards and Recognition

The museum has received several awards since it opened. These awards show how important and successful the museum is.

• 2013
  • Cultural Heritage award from Arkansas Delta ByWays
  • Natural State Category Finalist from Arkansas Governor's Conference on Tourism
  • Southern Travel Treasure from AAA Southern Traveler Magazine
• 2014
  • Natural and Cultural Heritage award from Arkansas Delta ByWays
• 2015
  • Bootstrap Award Winner From the Henry Awards given by Arkansas Parks and Tourism at the Governor's Conference on Tourism
    • This award was given because the museum became successful with limited money and resources.

See also

• Japanese Garden of Peace
• National Japanese American Veterans Memorial Court