Japanese American Internment Museum facts for kids
| Established | 2013 |
|---|---|
| Location | 100 South Railroad Street McGehee, Arkansas |
| Type | History museum |
The Japanese American Internment Museum is a special history museum in McGehee, Arkansas. It is also known as the WWII Japanese American Internment Museum or the Jerome-Rohwer Interpretive Museum & Visitor Center. This museum teaches visitors about a difficult time in American history during World War II.
In the 1940s, more than 17,000 Japanese Americans were forced to live in special camps. These camps were called Rohwer War Relocation Center and Jerome War Relocation Center. They were located near McGehee, Arkansas. The museum helps us remember what happened to these families.
The museum opened on April 16, 2013. It is located in an old train station building, the historic McGehee Railroad Depot. It is part of the Arkansas State University Heritage Sites. Famous actor and activist George Takei, who was held in one of these camps as a child, spoke at the museum's opening. You can even hear his voice on some of the museum's audio displays.
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What You Can See at the Museum
The museum has many interesting things to help you learn. You can watch a film about the camps and listen to personal stories from people who lived there. There are also old photographs, personal items, and art made by the internees. The museum often has new art shows too.
The museum has also started a library. Here, you can borrow books about the experiences of Japanese Americans during this time. One important exhibit is called "Fighting for Democracy: Who is the 'We' in 'We, the People'?" This exhibit helps people think about what democracy means for everyone.
Visiting the Rohwer Camp Site
After visiting the museum, you can also explore the actual site of the Rohwer War Relocation Center. This camp is about 17 miles away. At the site, you will find a memorial, a cemetery, and signs that explain the history. There are also audio kiosks where you can listen to more stories.
Special Art: Nancy Chikaraishi's Story
Sometimes, the museum features artwork by Nancy Chikaraishi. Her art shows the struggles of Japanese Americans in the camps. Nancy and her parents were held at the Rohwer camp. Her charcoal drawings, sculptures, and paintings share their experiences.
Why This Museum is Important
The Japanese American Internment Museum has received many awards for its important work. These awards show how much the museum helps people understand history.
- In 2013, it won the Cultural Heritage award from Arkansas Delta ByWays. It was also a finalist for the Natural State Category from the Arkansas Governor's Conference on Tourism. AAA Southern Traveler Magazine called it a Southern Travel Treasure.
- In 2014, it received another Natural and Cultural Heritage award from Arkansas Delta ByWays.
- In 2015, the museum won the Bootstrap Award from the Henry Awards. This award was given because the museum became successful even with limited money and resources.
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