Japanese Community in Mission: A Brief History, 1904–1942

Japanese Community in Mission: A Brief History, 1904–1942

CHAPTER V BIOGRAPHIES

In the following biographical profiles, the names and original domiciles in kanji characters were included for the benefit of those descendants who may in the future wish to trace their roots in Mission and Japan. Some Japanese names and geographical areas are very difficult to read. Extreme care was taken to ensure that the correct kanjis and readings are used. The names and original domiciles were taken from the Appendix of Kanada Doho Hatten Taikan (1). It should be noted here that the domiciles were current as at 1920. Following the Pacific War, most of the muras have been amalgamated with adjacent muras or chos (machis) to form a new cho (machi) or a shi with a different name. The current domiciles are covered in Pages 127 and 128. A map of Japan showing the various kens is also included in the map section of Chapter VI.
The numbers in parentheses after the name refer to the numbers in the bibliography. Much of the data were derived from these sources. Translations by the author of Mission pioneers featured in (1), (2) and (3) can be read at the East Asian Library of the University of B.C., Mission Historical Society and Archives, and at the Japanese Canadian National Museum in Burnaby.
NAME: ABE, Suekichi (1881-1949) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Miyagi-ken, Tome-gun, Maiya-mura SPOUSE: ABE, Katsuyo (1896-1973)
Suekichi ABE came to Canada in December, 1906. After arriving in Canada, Suekichi worked at various sawmills and logging camps in lower B.C. Suekichi moved to Mission around 1930 and farmed on leased land (location unknown). During the farming off season, he worked at nearby logging camps and sawmills. It is unknown how many children Suekichi and Katsuyo had. During the evacuation of 1942, Suekichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Diamond City, AB
NAME: ADACHI, Asa (1888 -1967) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Tottori-ken, Saihaku-gun, Agarimichi-mura SPOUSE: ADACHI, Natsuno (1899-1946)
Asa ADACHI immigrated to Canada in 1907. After arriving in Canada, Asa worked at a sheep farm on Moresby Island. He also engaged in salmon fishing and during the salmon off season, worked as a blacksmith at Myrtle Point logging camp near Powell River.
Asa moved to Mission in 1928 and bought 7.5 acres of land on Cade Barr Street to start farming (Map 1928, Lot 16).
Asa and Natsuno had 1 son and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Asa and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Diamond City, AB.
NAME : ADACHI, Miki (nee MATSUSHITA) (1894-1973) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Tottori-ken, Saihaku-gun, Agarimichi-mura SPOUSE: ADACHI, Namiyo (nee ADACHI) (1905-1999)
Miki ADACHI came to Canada in August of 1911 and engaged in salmon fishing in various areas. He also worked at various logging camps and sawmills on Vancouver Island and lower mainland B.C.
Miki moved to Mission in 1929 and bought 17 acres of land at the southwest corner of Cade Barr Street and Cherry Ave. to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 15).
Namiyo and Asa ADACHI are siblings. Miki and Namiyo had 1 son and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Miki and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, \.
NAME: AIHOSHI, Yokichi ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Higashikaseda-mura SPOUSE:
It is unknown when Yokichi immigrated to Canada, but records show he came before 1920.
Yokichi moved to Mission around 1936 and farmed on leased land adjacent to farm of Shizuo AYUKAWA (Part of SE¼ of Section 28).
Yokichi is the brother of Natsuye Ayukawa, wife of Shizuo AYUKAWA.
NAME: AMEMORI, Torao (1878 -1968) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Hotaku-gun, Shimasaki-mura SPOUSE: AMEMORI, Asa (1881-1957)
Torao AMEMORI immigrated to Canada in 1907 from San Francisco after the great earthquake of 1906. After arriving in Canada, Torao ran a small logging camp in Howe Sound but was not successful. He then worked at several logging camps and sawmills in lower B.C.
In 1920, Torao moved to Mission area to work at various logging and lumber camps operated by Peter Bain In Silverdale, Cedar Valley and Dewdney. In 1926, Torao moved to Mission and opened a small grocery store to service the local Japanese farmers and the camps he used to work at. This venture was also not successful due to depression.
He then bought 7 acres of land between the railway and the river to start farming (Map 1716, Lot 1). During the farming off season, Torao worked at various logging camps operated by Peter Bain around Mission and vicinity.
Torao and Asa had 1 son and 4 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Torao and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Raymond, AB.
NAME: AOKI, Kyuichi (1896-1985) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Itojima-gun, Fukuyoshi-mura SPOUSE: AOKI, Masano (1899-1945)
Kyuichi AOKI came to Canada in 1913 when he was called over by his father, Chiyokichi Aoki. He worked together with his father on various railway construction and maintenance jobs.
Kyuichi moved to Mission in 1920, bought 8 acres of land fronting Grand Avenue to start farming (Map 1721, Lot 10).
Kyuichi's father, Chiyokichi, also moved to Mission around 1924, bought 8 acres to start farming (Map 1721, Lot 12). Chiyokichi, however, sold his farm to his son in 1936 and returned home to Japan.
Kyuichi and Masano had 4 sons.
During the evacuation, Kyuichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Kipp, AB.
NAME: ARAKI, Tanekichi (nee OGAWA) (1881-1949) (2)(3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Mii-gun, Aikawa-mura SPOUSE: ARAKI, Tokuyo (nee ARAKI) (1896-1969)
Tanekichi OGAWA came to Canada in 1907. After arriving, Tanekichi worked at a logging camp in the outskirts of Mission for 2 to 3 years. In 1911, he moved to Mission and worked as a farm hand for a hakujin farmer. While working there, he was a frequent visitor to the HISAOKA and TANAKA families as both were from the same ken in Japan. Both HISAOKA and TANAKA recommended to Tanekichi that he should start a farm on his own.
In November of 1917, Tanekichi returned home to Japan to seek a wife. He was adopted into the ARAKI family as a yohshi with Tokuyo as his wife. Tanekichi returned to Canada in March, 1918 accompanied by his wife.
In May of 1919, Tanekichi ARAKI bought 10 acres of land at the NE corner of Stave Lake and Dewdney Trunk Roads to start farming on his own (Map 1727, Lot 11). He was very active in Nohkai affairs.
Tanekichi and Tokuyo had 5 sons and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Tanekichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Turin, AB.
NAME : AYUKAWA, Kuniyoshi (1894-1980) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Kaseda-mura SPOUSE: AYUKAWA, Kiku (1904-20-- )
Kuniyoshi AYUKAWA immigrated to Canada in 1918 as a yobiyose of Kahei KAMIMURA. He worked at sawmills and logging camps operated by KAMIMURA.
Kuniyoshi moved to Mission around 1934 and bought a 9 acre lot on Cherry Street to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 12). During the berry off season, Kuniyoshi worked at sawmills and/or logging camps run by Kahei KAMIMURA.
Kuniyoshi and Shizuo are brothers. Kuniyoshi's eldest sister, Ito SHIKAZE, is the wife of Nijiro SHIKAZE. Kuniyoshi and Kiku had 3 sons and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kuniyoshi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Iron Springs, AB.
NAME: AYUKAWA, Shizuo (1900-196?) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Kaseda-mura SPOUSE: AYUKAWA, Natsuye (1906-20-- )
Shizuo AYUKAWA immigrated to Canada in 1917. After arriving in Canada, Shizuo worked at Matsumoto Boatworks in Steveston as a ship carpenter. He later worked at a logging camp in Whonnock and in Steelhead.
Shizuo moved to Mission around 1934 and bought a 9 acre lot fronting Cherry Ave. to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 14). During the berry off season, Shizuo worked at a sawmill in Whonnock.
Shizuo and Natsuye had 4 sons and 4 daughters. Natsuye and Yokichi AIHOSHI are siblings.
During the evacuation of 1942, Shizuo and family moved to New Denver, B.C.
NAME: DOHZEN, Eiichi (1886- ) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Okayama-ken, Tsukubo-gun, Senoo-mura SPOUSE: DOHZEN, Sachiko (0000- )
Eiichi DOHZEN immigrated to Canada in 1907. In Canada, he worked at a fruit orchard farm on Vancouver Island.
Eiichi moved to Mission in 1912 and worked at King Beach Jam plant. In 1913, he bought 5 acres of land in joint partnership with Kaichi SUGIMURA (Map 1720, N half of Lot 19). Eiichi's main purpose in coming to Canada was to learn western farming methods and also jam making. He was one of the founding members of the Kyoreikai and subsequent Nohkai. He sold his share of the farm to Kaichi SUGIMURA and returned home to Japan in 1922 with his wife and daughter.
NAME: ENDO, Torashichi (1879-1952) (2) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukushima-ken, Tamura-gun, Ohgoe-mura SPOUSE: ENDO, Hisako (nee KANOMATA) ( -- )
Torashichi ENDO immigrated to Canada in 1907. After landing in Canada, he worked at various jobs before moving to Mission.
Torashichi moved to Mission in 1918 and bought 26 acres of land fronting Lougheed Highway (Map 1720, Lot M and Map 1717, Lot 2). Torashichi was actively involved in Nohkai and Japanese Language School affairs. He was one of the founding members of Fukushima Kenjinkai (Ass'n ofCompatriots from Fukushima-ken). He was not only active in Mission but also at the Fukushima Kenjinkai head office in Vancouver.
Torashichi's younger sister, Kiu, is the wife of Seikichi UMETSU. Torashichi and Hisako had 2 sons.
During the evacuation of 1942, Torashichi and family moved to New Denver, B.C.
NAME: FUJIKAWA, Tsurukichi (1876-1934) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Echi-gun, Hatagawa-mura SPOUSE: FUJIKAWA, Riwo ( -1934)
Tsurukichi FUJIKAWA immigrated to Canada in 1907. In Canada, he engaged in salmon fishing and worked at several sawmills.
Tsurukichi moved to Silverdale in 1911 and bought 5.2 acres of land to start farming (Township 14, Part of NW¼ of Section 20). Later, he bought an additional 4.8 acres to hold 10 acres.
Tsurukichi and Riwo had 4 sons and 5 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Riwo and family moved to an internment camp in Tashme, B.C.
NAME: FUJINO, Kumekichi (1872-1944) (1) (2) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Echi-gun, Inae-mura SPOUSE: FUJINO, Sumako (1875-1934)
Kumekichi FUJINO came to Canada in 1898 aboard the "Empress of China". On arriving in Canada, Kumekichi worked at several sawmills around Vancouver for 4 years.
In 1902, he returned horne to fetch his family and returned to Canada in 1903 with his wife and family. While working at Hastings Sawmill in Vancouver, he was advised by a hakujin friend to go to Mission where his father owned and ran a sawmill.
In January of 1904, Kumekichi went to Mission to work at the Mission Railway and Sawmill Co. In late spring that year, a coworker took him to a strawberry farm to do some picking. Kumekichi' s family had been farmers for generations and he foresaw farming as a means of providing a better living conditions for his family and also better education for his children.
In July of 1904, he took a big step and bought 30 acres of raw brush land near Wren Street and Silverdale Road to start farming (Map 1720, Lot A). He painstakingly cleared this land little by little and planted strawberries and vegetables. In the meantime, his family who were still living in Vancouver, joined him in Mission. He later bought 5 more acres to increase his acreage to 35 (Map 1920, Lot 2).
Kumekichi was the first Japanese to settle in Mission. He was one of the founding members of Kyoreikai and subsequent Nohkai. Kumekichi was a pillar of the community and was very active in various community affairs including the Nohkai, Japanese Language School and Buddhist Church affairs and served on their boards for several terms.
Kumekichi's wife, Sumako, was the first Japanese woman to live in Mission. Many local residents who had never seen a Japanese woman before, came to visit her and to welcome her to the community. Kumekichi's eldest son, Eijiro, who was born in Japan, was the first Japanese to be enrolled in a school in Mission. Sumako assisted her husband in raising a large flock of hens.
Kumekichi and Sumako had 2 sons and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kumekichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: FUKAMI, Katsubei (1888-1974) (2) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Asakura-gun, Minaki-mura SPOUSE: FUKAMI, Asa (1894-1993)
Katsubei FUKAMI immigrated to Canada in 1907. After arriving in Canada, Katsubei worked on various jobs with a railway company. He also worked in a coal mine and also on a whaling ship. For a brief period, he ran a barbershop in Victoria.
Katsubei moved to Mission in 1917 and bought 19 acres of land along Ferndale Road to start farming (Map 1733, Lot 1). He later bought 5 additional acres (Map 1733, Lot 2) and 9 more acres (Map 1728, Lot 13) to hold a total of 33 acres. Katsubei was very active in Nohkai and Buddhist Church affairs.
Katsubei and Asa had 2 sons and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Katsubei and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Coalhurst, AB.
NAME: FUKAWA, Shoji (1899-1965) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kanagawa-ken, Naka-gun, Nishihatano-mura SPOUSE: FUKAWA, Toki (1910-1974)
Shoji FUKAWA came to Canada in 1924 as a yobiyose of Denjiro OKABE and worked there for 3 years. From 1927 to 1929, Shoji worked at a sawmill in Abbotsford.
In 1929, Shoji bought 9.3 acres of land on Dewdney Trunk Road adjacent to Denjiro OKABE to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 1).
Shoji is the younger brother of Taki (Mrs. Denjiro OKABE). Shoji and Toki had 2 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Shoji and family moved to Coldstream, B.C.
NAME: HASHIMOTO, Ruiichi (1887-1947) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Kohnu-gun, Ryoke-mura SPOUSE: HASHIMOTO, Sato (1888-1978)
Ruiichi HASHIMOTO immigrated to Canada in 1909. In Canada, Ruiichi worked mainly at various logging camps.
Ruiichi moved to Mission in 1929 and bought 10 acres of land on Silverdale Road (7th Avenue) to start farming (Map 1720, Lot F). Ruiichi also leased and farmed 5 acres in Matsqui.
Ruiichi and Sato had 4 sons and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Ruiichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Arnaud, MB.
NAME: HASHIZUME, Tashiro (1879-1938) (1)(2)(3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Wakayama-ken, Kaiso-gun, Hikata-cho SPOUSE: HASHIZUME, Etsu (1887-1977)
Tashiro HASHIZUME came to Canada in 1903 aboard the "Kagawa-maru" intending to go to Los Angeles via Vancouver. On board this ship were many fishermen from Wakayama-ken who were returning to Steveston. After learning that Tashiro was from the same ken, they talked Tashiro into going fishing with them. This venture into salmon fishing turned out to be a disaster due to the poor salmon run that year and he exhausted most of the $500.00 that his parents had given him. With no money to go to Los Angeles, he was obliged to look for work locally. He found a road building job at Brittania Mines but it lasted only 2 weeks because of a heavy snow storm.
He then went to Victoria to search for a job. He found employment as a farm hand in Saanich for $15.00 per month. Tashiro worked at this farm for 2½ years during which time he learned how to look after farm animals, clear and till land, plant and grow berries, potatoes and rhubarbs. The farm owner was also a school teacher and taught English to Tashiro. He also gave Tashiro an English name "George". It was while Tashiro was working here that he decided to become a farmer.
In order to earn and save up enough money to start farming, Tashiro returned to salmon fishing, and during its off season, worked at logging camps and sawmills.
In 1906, Tashiro decided to engage in a small import business through his brother in Japan. Lacking business acumen, this venture ended in failure. He then continued salmon fishing and worked at logging camps and sawmills to increase his savings.
In 1909, Tashiro moved to Cheadle, AB where he invested $1,500 to grow potatoes. This venture also ended in failure when an unexpected early frost in July wiped out his entire crop. This left Tashiro in a quandary. He decided to return to B.C. and more salmon fishing, logging camps and sawmills.
When Tashiro returned to Vancouver, he discovered that a piece ofproperty he had bought earlier on Main Street for $840 had almost tripled in price. He sold this property for $2,500 and in October of 1910 moved to Mission. He bought 28½ acres of brush land in the northeast section of the town to start farming (Map 1727, Lot 1). Tashiro painstakingly cleared this land acre by acre, and using the knowhow he acquired from the farm owner and school teacher in Saanich, planted and grew strawberries, potatoes and rhubarb on his newly cleared land.
Tashiro was successful as a farmer, and in the ensuing years bought several more acres of land. By the time he passed away in 1938, he had acquired a total of 80 acres (Map 1727, Lots 3 & 4 and Map 1726, Lot 2). After Tashiro's death, the farm was taken over by his eldest son, Eiichi John.
Tashiro was one ofthe founding members of the Kyoreikai and subsequent Nohkai. He was a pillar ofthe community and very active in Nohkai and Japanese Language School affairs and served several terms on their boards as president and treasurer. He was also an active supporter in the building of a Christian church in Mission.
Tashiro's wife, Etsu, was a qualified midwife nurse and delivered numerous babies of Japanese families who later settled in Mission. She was the third Japanese woman to live in Mission, after Sumako FUJINO and Kin HISAOKA.
Tashiro's son, Eiichi John, taught judo to numerous teen-aged nisei boys.
Tashiro and Etsu had 3 sons and 4 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Eiichi and his family moved to a sugar beet farm in Raymond, AB.
NAME: HATTORI, Taichiro (1884-1931) (1) (2) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Mie-ken, Mie-gun, Kusu-mura SPOUSE: HATTORI, Sumiko (1892-1952)
Taichiro HATTORI came to Canada in 1899. After landing in Canada, Taichiro worked at a sawmill in the Skeena River area for 6 years and at another sawmill in Swanson Bay for 3 years. He tried farming in Pitt Meadows in 1908. Between 1909 and 1913, in partnership with Sukeemon ARAKAWA, Taichiro leased 160 acres in Silverdale area to start farming. There, he grew strawberries and raised poultry. Between 1913 and 1919, he leased 130 acres of dairy farmland in Matsqui. He also grew potatoes there.
In 1919, Taichiro moved to Mission and bought 7.1 acres of land near 7th Avenue and Horne Street (Map 1721, Lots 21 & 22). He also leased and farmed another 11 acres. Taichiro was active in community affairs including Nohkai and Japanese Language School. After Taichiro's death, the farm was run by Sumiko and eldest son, Masao.
Taichiro and Sumiko had 3 sons and 4 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Sumiko and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Diamond City, AB.
NAME: HAYASHI, Genno ( -1953) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Inukami-gun, Isoda-mura SPOUSE: HAYASHI, Kinu (1892-1938)
It is unknown when Genno HAYASHI immigrated to Canada. After arriving in Canada, Genno worked at a sawmill in Abbotsford.
Genno moved to Mission around 1930 and bought 10 acres of land fronting Dewdney Trunk Road to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 6). This farm was formerly owned by Tokutaro ONO.
Genno and Kinu had 2 daughters and 6 sons.
During the evacuation of 1942, Genno and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Turin, AB.
NAME: HAYASHI, Ken (1904-1993) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Gifu-ken, Toki-gun, Oroshi-mura SPOUSE: HAYASHI, Matsuyo (1912-20 )
Ken HAYASHI came to Canada as a child when he was called over by his father, Senjiro. Ken went to school in Vancouver where he graduated from a commercial high school.
Ken moved to Mission in 1932 and was hired as a bookkeeper by the Pacific Cooperative Union. In 1934, Ken bought 20 acres of land near Clay and Bench Streets so that he and his father, Senjiro, could start farming (Map 1730, Lot 2).
Ken and Matsuyo had 3 sons.
During the evacuation of 1942, Ken, his mother Yuki, and the rest ofthe family moved to a dairy farm in Taber, AB.
NAME: HAYASHI, Tatsuo ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Aso-gun, Nishikino-mura SPOUSE: HAYASHI, Yu
It is unknown when Tatsuo HAYASHI immigrated to Canada, however, records indicate that he came before 1920. After arriving in Canada, Tatsuo worked for a CPR work gang in Field, B.C. He later worked at a logging camp operated by Kahei KAMIMURA near Mission.
Tatsuo moved to Mission in 1924 and bought 4 acres of land to start farming (Map 1721, Lot 16). During the farming off season, Tatsuo worked at the logging camp and/or sawmill operated by KAMIMURA.
Tatsu and Yu had 3 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Tatsuo and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: HINATSU, Yoheiji (1884-1959) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Inukami-gun, Hinatsu-mura SPOUSE: HINATSU, Ito (1886-1969)
Yoheiji HINATSU immigrated to Canada in 1913. After arriving, Yoheiji engaged in salmon fishing. He later bought a small farm near Webster's Corner in Haney.
He moved to Mission in 1919 and bought 10 acres of land on the west side of Wren St. to start farming (Map 1719, Lot 6). He later leased and farmed 5 more acres near Silverdale Creek. Yoheiji was an active supporter of the Japanese Language School and the Buddhist Church.
Yoheiji and Ito had 4 sons and 4 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Yoheiji and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: HISAOKA, Ichirohei (1887-1986) (1) (2) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Asakura-gun, Yasu-mura SPOUSE: HISAOKA, Kin (1892-1982)
Ichirohei HISAOKA immigrated to Canada in 1908 as a contract coal miner. After landing in Canada, Ichirohei went straight to Cumberland to work in the coal mine. A year later, he moved to Vancouver where he worked for 3 years as a houseboy for a white family. He then moved to a logging camp in North Vancouver and worked there till May, 1911.
Ichirohei moved to Mission in 1911 and worked as a farm hand for a white farmer. In December, 1911, he bought 5 acres of land along Dewdney Trunk Road to start farming (Map 1727, E½ of Lot 10). He later bought the W½ of Lot 10 and the W½ of Lot 9 to own a total of 15 acres.
Through a correspondence course, he learned to become a masseur and therapist. This therapy involved the use of low voltage electricity to stimulate the muscles and the circulatory system. From around 1930, he began treating Japanese as well as hakujin clients not only in Mission but also as far away as Abbotsford.
Ichirohei's wife, Kin, was a picture bride and was the second Japanese to live in Mission.Together, they had 3 sons and 5 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Ichirohei and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Iron Springs, AB.
NAME: IKEBUCHI, Takaichi (1894-1945) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Tottori-ken, Saihaku-gun, Agarimichi-mura SPOUSE: IKEBUCHI, Itoye (1897-1983)
Takaichi IKEBUCHI came to Canada in 1908. After arriving, he engaged in salmon fishing and worked at various sawmills.
Takaichi moved to Mission in 1919 and bought 10 acres of land on Cade Barr Street to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 18). Around 1934, he bought 8 acres (Map 1721, Lot 15) from his father, Yotaro.
Takaichi was very active in Nohkai and Japanese Language School affairs. He was also very active in Hothouse Rhubarb Growers Union and the Hop Growers Unions.
Takaichi and Itoye had 5 sons and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Takaichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: INOUYE, Yoshinobu (1897-1980) (1) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kanagawa-ken, Ashigarakami-gun, Yoshidajima-mura SPOUSE: INOUYE, Teruko (nee TSUJI) (1904-1974)
Yoshinobu INOUYE immigrated to Canada in 1911 when he was called over by his father, Ukichi. Together with his father, Yoshinobu worked at a shingle plant in Abbotsford (1912-1913) and at Brittania Mines (1913-1917). He also worked at an ice cream plant in Vancouver.
Yoshinobu and Ukichi moved to Mission in 1918 and bought 28.9 acres of land along Lougheed Highway and west of Wren Street (Map 1718, Lot 1 & Map 1719, Lots 1 and 2). Yoshinobu later sold the 10 acre portion on the north side of the highway (Map 1719, Lot 2) to Kyuya ODA.
Yoshinobu and Teruko had 3 sons and 4 daughters. His wife, Teruko is the daughter of Kamejiro TSUJI.
During the evacuation of 1942, Teruko and family moved to a farm near Winnipeg, MB. Yoshinobu, who was working at a sawmill in Hope, was not required to evacuate.
NAME: ITO, Yanosuke SPOUSE: ITO, Sui NAME: ITO, Chukichi (1878-1930) (1) (2) (3) SPOUSE: ITO, Soyo ( ) NAME: ITO, Denjiro (1885-1968) SPOUSE: ITO, Tsugi ( -1932) NAME: HAMAKAWA, Tomekichi SPOUSE: ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Sakata-gun, Irie-mura
Yanosuke immigrated to Canada in 1897 and worked at Heaps Mill near Vancouver, eventually becoming a supervisor of some 200 workers. He went home in 1905 to get married and returned to Vancouver by himself and his old job at the sawmill.
Chukichi immigrated to Canada in 1901. He also worked at Heaps Mill where his elder brother, Yanosuke, was working. Chukichi went home to Japan in 1903 to get married and returned by himself. In 1907, Chukichi called over his wife and family.
With the help of Yanosuke, Chukichi moved with his family to Mission in 1913 and bought 15 acres of land on the west side of Wren Street to start farming (Map 1719, Lots 4 & 7). Chukichi and Soyo had 2 sons and a daughter.
Denjiro immigrated to Canada in 1907 and worked at the same sawmill as his brothers. In 1915, he moved to Mission and bought 5 acres of land adjacent to his brother, Chukichi (Map 1719, Lot 5). He later bought 10 more acres (Map 1719, Lot 8).
Yanosuke, Chukichi, Denjiro and their brother in law, Tomekichi HAMAKAWA formed a 4-way partnership that totaled 35 acres of farmland (Map 1719, Lots 4,5,7 &8). When Chukichi died in 1930, his wife, Soyo, brother in law Tomekichi as well as Yanosuke decided to return home to Japan and sold their shares to Denjiro.
Yanosuke and Sui had 3 daughters; Denjiro and Tsugi, 4 sons and 1 daughter; and Tomekichi, 5 children.
During the evacuation of 1942, Denjiro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: ITO, Yohzaburo ( -1954) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Asakura-gun, Yasu-mura SPOUSE: ITO, Asano ( -1983)
It is unknown when Yohzaburo ITO immigrated to Canada. In Canada, he worked mainly in logging camps.
Yohzaburo moved to Mission in 1920 and bought 8 acres of land at the SW corner of 14th Ave. and Horne St. to start farming (Map 1721, Lot 7).
Yohzaburo and Asano had 1 son and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Yohzaburo and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: KADONAGA, Sato (1888-1951) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Tottori-ken, Saihaku-gun, Agarimichi-mura SPOUSE: KADONAGA, Toyono (1888-1961)
Sato KADONAGA immigrated to Canada in 1920. After arriving in Canada, he worked at various sawmills in Ocean Falls and other locations in lower B.C.
Sato moved to Mission around 1934 and bought 10 acres of land to start farming (Map 1727, Lot 23).
Sato and Toyono had 2 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Sato and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: KADOYAMA, Ichiro (1906-1979) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Tottori-ken, Saihaku-gun, Agarimichi-mura SPOUSE: KADOYAMA, Tsuya (1911-1998)
Ichiro KADOYAMA immigrated to Canada in 1922. After arriving in Canada, he worked at various logging camps in lower B.C. with his father, Keiichi.
Ichiro moved to Mission in 1935 where he first worked as a farm hand. In 1936, he bought 10 acres of land that was formerly owned by Isaku KOBUKE (Map 1728, Lot 2).
Ichiro and Tsuya had 2 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Ichiro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Iron Springs, AB.
NAME: KAMIMURA Kahei (nee SHIKAZE) (1885-1969) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Kaseda-mura SPOUSE: KAMIMURA, Mitsu (nee KAMIMURA) (1887-1974)
Kahei KAMIMURA came to Canada in May of 1915. After arriving in Canada, Kahei worked at a logging camp in Swanson Bay and as a carpenter and millwright at Brittania Mines.
Kahei moved to Mission in 1920 and bought 26.3 acres of land along Dewdney Trunk Road to start farming (Map 1727, Lot 6). This property was bought from his younger brother, Kaemon SHIKAZE. Kahei was adopted by the KAMIMURA family as a yohshi, hence the KAMIMURA surname. Around 1924, Kahei bought an additional 12.3 acres (Map 1727, Lot 14).
Aside from farming, Kahei ran a tie mill in Hatzic. He also went into logging and operated a camp in the Steelhead area. He also built and ran a sawmill by the river in Mission. These operations by Kahei provided much needed employment for the many residents and small farmers ofMission during the berry off season. Kahei and another brother, Kaichi SHIKAZE, built the Nohkai hall on 7th Avenue in 1930.
Kahei and Mitsu had 2 sons and 5 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kahei and family moved to an internment camp in Tashme, B.C.
NAME: KANOMATA, Kiyoshi (1901-1985) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukushima-ken, Tamura-gun, Miyama-mura SPOUSE: KANOMATA, Miyoshi (1911-1996)
Kiyoshi KANOMATA came to Canada and Mission in 1916 as a yobiyose of his brother-in-law, Torashichi ENDO. After working on his uncle's farm for 3 years, he found employment with the Railroad in Mission. Around 1924, Kiyoshi bought 6.5 acres of land adjacent to his uncle to farm on his own (Map 1720, Lot N).
Kiyoshi's older sister, Hisako, is the wife of Torashichi ENDO. Kiyoshi and Miyoshi had 3 sons and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kiyoshi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Raymond, AB.
NAME: KATO, Kiyoji (1882-1953) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Higashikaseda-mura SPOUSE: KATO, Ai (1897-1972)
Kiyoji KATO immigrated to Canada in 1900. After arriving in Canada, Kiyoji worked at various sawmills. He also worked as a member of CPR construction gang. He later began a small business catering food to the gang members.
Kiyoji moved to Mission in 1920 and worked for the Railway. Around 1924, he bought 10.3 acres of land that formerly belonged to Kyushiro UTSUMI (Map 1720, Lot O and Map 1717, Lot 3).
Kiyoji and Ai had 2 sons and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation, Kiyoji and family moved to a sugar beet farm in St. Elizabeth, MB.
NAME: KIMURA, Isao ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Hiroshima-shi, Eba-cho SPOUSE: KIMURA, Masaye
Isao KIMURA came to Canada as a yobiyose of Teizo NAKASHIMA. The year of his immigration is unknown as well as what activities he engaged in after fulfilling his yobiyose obligations.
In 1932, he bought 4 acres of land to start farming (Map 1721, N½ of Lot 19). In 1936, he bought the S½ of Lot 19 (4 acres) from the estate of Hajime KUDO to hold a total of 8 acres.
Isao is the cousin of Teizo NAKASHIMA. He and Masaye had 3 sons and 4 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Isao and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Raymond, AB. After the war, Isao and family returned to Japan.
NAME: KINOSHITA, Asajiro (1881-1944) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Hiroshima-shi, Eba-cho SPOUSE: KINOSHITA, Natsue ( ) KINOSHITA, Yoki (1898-1983)
Asajiro KINOSHITA immigrated to Canada in 1907. After arriving, he worked as a building janitor in Vancouver.
Asajiro moved to Mission in 1928 and bought 2 - 4 acre lots on 11 th Ave. between Home and Dunsmuir Streets to start farming (Map 1721, Lot 18). Asajiro bought this property from Hajime KUDO.
Asajiro and Natsue had one daughter. When Natsue died, Asajiro married Toki and between them, had 1 son, Shigeru. Toki is the younger sister of Tsutayo, wife of Teizo NAKASHIMA.
During the evacuation of 1942, Asajiro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Sterling, AB.
NAME: KITAGAWA, Takejiro (1872-1921) SPOUSE: KITAGAWA, Kiku (1872-1911) NAME: KITAGAWA, Yosokichi (1899-1980) SPOUSE: KITAGAWA, Sada (MIYAMOTO) (1904-1936) KITAGAWA, Nobuko(YAMAMURA) (1914-20 ) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Sakata-gun, Irie-mura
Takejiro KITAGAWA immigrated to Canada around 1890 at the time ofthe great Lake Biwa flood. After arriving in Canada, Takejiro worked at several sawmills in and around Vancouver.
He moved to Mission in 1918 and bought 5 acres of land along Cherry Ave. to start farming (Map 1729, Lot 14). When Takejiro died in 1921, his son, Yosokichi, took over the farm. Around 1930, Yosokichi bought another 5 acres (Map 1729, Lot 15).
Yosokichi came to Canada in 1907 when he was called over by his father. He was sent to a Catholic school run by nuns to learn English. When Yosokichi reached adulthood, he began working at Hammond Cedar Co. in Hammond, eventually rising to level of supervisor.
Yosokichi and Sada had 5 sons and 1 daughter, and with Nobuko, 2 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Yosokichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Diamond City, AB.
NAME: KOBUKE, Isaku (1876-1936) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Aki-gun, Nukushina-mura SPOUSE: KOBUKE, Sano (1888-1926)
Isaku KOBUKE immigrated to Canada in 1908. In Canada, he worked at a shingle and logging camp in Steelhead, north of Mission.
Isaku moved to Mission in 1920 and bought 10 acres of land to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 2). During the strawberry off season, Isaku continued to work at the shingle and logging camp in Steelhead. After Isaku's death, his son, Goichi, took over and ran the farm. Goichi later sold the farm to Ichiro KADOYAMA.
Isaku and Sano had 4 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Goichi went to Schreiber, ON.
NAME: KODAMA, Sanjiro (1880-1938) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Asa-gun, Miiri-mura SPOUSE: KODAMA, Imayo (1891-1962)
Sanjiro KODAMA immigrated to Canada around 1915/16. In Canada, he worked as a farm hand at MORIKAWA's farm in Haney.
Sanjiro moved to Mission in 1919 and bought 8 acres of land at the SE corner of Grand Street and 14th Avenue to start farming (Map 1721, Lot 6).
After Sanjiro's death in 1938, the farm was taken over by his daughter, Hatsue, and her husband, Tokuo.
Sanjiro and Imayo had 4 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Tokuo and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB. After the war, Tokuo and family returned to Japan.
NAME: KOHNO, Naotaro ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Asa-gun, Miiri-mura SPOUSE
It is unknown when Naotaro KOHNO immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in prior to moving to Mission.
Naotaro moved to Mission in 1919 and bought 6.2 acres of land to start farming (Map 1721, Lot 24).
Naotaro farmed for a few years and left.
NAME: KONNO, Naoki (3) NAME: KONNO, Yukio (1898-1975) SPOUSE: KONNO, Haru (1902-1960) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukushima-ken, Soma-gun, Ohta-mura
It is unknown when Naoki KONNO immigrated to Canada. After arriving, Naoki worked at various places including a pulp and paper plant in Woodfibre, B.C. He also worked for a short period at Hotel Vancouver.
Naoki's son, Yukio, immigrated to Canada in 1915 and joined his father in Woodfibre. Together, they moved to Mission in 1918 and bought 10 acres of land to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 22). Around 1934, Yukio bought 10 more acres (Map 1728, Lot 24).
Yukio and Haru had 4 sons and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Yukio and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: KUDO, Hajime (1878-1937) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Takata-gun, Ariho-mura SPOUSE: KUDO, Hatsu (1883-1941)
It is unknown when Hajime KUDO came to Canada and what activities he engaged in before moving to Mission.
Hajime moved to Mission in 1921 and bought 12 acres to start farming (Map 1721, Lot 18 and S½ of Lot 19). In 1928, Hajime sold Lot 18 (8 acres) to Asajiro KINOSHITA. After Hajime's death in 1937, the S½ of Lot 19 was sold to Isao KIMURA.
Hajime is the elder brother of Minoru KUDO. Hajime was a devout Buddhist and served as one of the lay ministers of the Buddhist Church in Mission. Hajime and Hatsu had 2 sons.
NAME: KUDO, Minoru (1886-1959) (1) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Takata-gun, Ariho-mura SPOUSE: KUDO, Hatsune (1895-1984)
Minoru KUDO immigrated to Canada in 1907. After arriving, he worked for a local Japanese press, the Tairiku Nippo, during which time he studied English intensively. He also worked at various other jobs including fishing and farming.
Minoru moved to Mission in 1911 and purchased 6.5 acres of land to start farming (Map 1727, Lot 21). In the late 20s, Minoru moved to Hatzic Prairie but returned to Mission at the earnest request of the community. When he returned to Mission, he bought a 17 acre property at the NW corner of Cherry Ave. and Cade Barr St. (Map 1728, Lot 10).
Minoru was a pillar ofthe community and was one of the founding members ofthe Kyoreikai and subsequent Nohkai and served several terms as its president. He was also active in community affairs including the Japanese Language School. Together with his wife, Hatsune, Minoru taught at this school as principal between 1930 and 1942.
Minoru was in high demand as a daisho or scrivener by many of the community farmers who came to Canada with only an elementary school education. On behalf of the individual, he volunteered his services in writing various letters and applications. He was also highly respected not only by the Japanese but also the hakujin community. He was constantly in demand to resolve intercommunity problems, disputes and differences. As the children ofthe community grew to marriageable age, he was constantly asked to act as nakohdo or go-between for numerous nisei couples. This continued even after evacuation.
Minoru and Hatsune had 2 sons and 4 daughters.
During the forced evacuation of 1942, Minoru assisted the authorities so that the evacuation could proceed smoothly. He and his family were one of the last to leave Mission for Alberta. He evacuated to a sugar beet farm in Kip, AB.
NAME: KUNIMOTO, Shingo (1885-1972) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Kikuchi-gun, Jinnai-mura SPOUSE: KUNIMOTO, Tsuchiye (1888-1965)
Shingo KUNIMOTO immigrated to Canada in 1903. After arriving in Canada, he worked at a logging camp on Texada Island between 1903 and 1910. From 1910 to 1920, Shingo ran his own logging camp and logged at various locations in lower B.C. including McConnell Creek near Mission.
To provide a more stable life for his family and education for his children, Shingo sold his business and moved to Mission in 1920 to start farming. He initially bought 10 acres of land on Cherry Ave. (Map 1727, Lot 18) and later bought an additional 10 acres (Map 1727, Lot 19) to hold a total of 20 acres. He also leased and farmed an additional 15 acres.
Shingo was very active in community affairs and served several terms on both the Nohkai and Japanese Language School boards. He was also active in the Hothouse Rhubarb Union and Hop Growers Unions.
Shingo and Tsuchiye had 2 sons and 4 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Shingo and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: KUWABARA, Sataro (1886-1953) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Inukami-gun, Hikone-cho SPOUSE: KUWABARA, Setsu (1892-1972)
Sataro KUWABARA immigrated to Canada in 1907. After arriving, he worked at Hotel Vancouver for 8 years. He also worked for some time at Banff Springs Hotel and at Royal Alexandra Hotel in Winnipeg.
Sataro moved to Mission in 1917 and bought 15 acres of land to start farming (Map 1720, Lot B). Sataro sold his farm in 1922 and moved to Calgary, AB.
Sataro and Setsu had 5 sons and 1 daughter.
NAME: MATSUNAGA, Hikokuma ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Kikuchi-gun, Jinnai-mura SPOUSE: MATSUNAGA, Taka
Hikokuma MATSUNAGA immigrated to Canada in 1907. After arriving, he worked at various sawmills in lower B.C.
Hikokuma moved to Mission in 1929 and bought 10 acres of land at the NE corner of Stave Lake Street and Cherry Avenue (Map 1727, Lot 15). Hikokuma farmed here till 1938 when he sold his farm and returned to Japan.
Hikokuma and Taka had 2 sons and 2 daughters.
NAME: MATSUSHITA, Jinmatsu (1904-1986) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Hiroshima-shi, Eba-cho SPOUSE: MATSUSHITA, Mineko (1905-1980)
Jinmatsu immigrated to Canada in 1924 as a yobiyose of Teizo NAKASHIMA. After working at NAKASHIMA's farm for 3 years, he moved to Woodfibre to work at the pulp and paper plant.
Jinmatsu moved back to Mission around 1931 and leased 17.4 acres of land from Minoru KUDO to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 10).
Jinmatsu and Mineko had 1 son and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Jinmatsu and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: MITSUNAGA, Takehachi (1881-1957) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Aso-gun, Nishikino-mura SPOUSE: MITSUNAGA, Haruye ( -1922) MITSUNAGA, Nakaye (1899-2001)
Takehachi MITSUNAGA immigrated to Canada in 1907. After arriving, he worked at several sawmills in lower mainland B.C. In 1914, Takehachi started a small restaurant business in New Westminster which turned out to be unsuccessful. Between 1918 and 1925, he worked at a sawmill near Hope.
Takehachi moved to Mission in 1928 and bought 5 acres of land fronting Lougheed Highway to start farming (Map 1720, Lot 3). In 1934, together with Ichijiro UYEMURA and Kumeji SHIMODA, Takehachi bought 9 acres to grow "autumn" strawberries (Map 1720, Lot J). During the strawberry off season, Takehachi worked at a sawmill in Coquitlam that was run by his brother-in-law.
Takehachi and Haruye had 1 daughter, and with Nakaye, 1 son and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Takehachi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Carey, AB.
NAME: MIYAGAWA, Hikojiro (1882-1961) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Higashiasai-gun, Nanao-mura SPOUSE: MIYAGAWA, Riyu ( -1918) MIYAGAWA, Hisae (1892-1984)
Hikojiro MlYAGAWA immigrated to Canada in 1907. After arriving, he worked at various railway projects and at sawmills.
Hikojiro moved to Mission in 1915 and bought 4 acres of land on 7th Avenue near Grand Street to start farming (Map 1721, Lot 1). He also farmed on leased land. In 1939, together with Toyoki MORlYAMA, Hikojiro bought 20 acres to grow hops, a relatively new crop.
Hikojiro was very active in community affairs. He was a devout Buddhist and one of the founding members of the Buddhist Church in Mission. He also served as a lay minister. He donated a piece of his property (Map 1721, Lot B) so that a church could be built in Mission.
Hikojiro and Riyu had 1 son, and with Hisae, 6 daughters and 4 sons.
During the evacuation of 1942, Hikojiro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: MORI, Kuniyoshi (1890-1961) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Higashiminakata-mura SPOUSE: MORI, Misue (1894-1990)
Kuniyoshi MORI immigrated to Canada in April of 1909. After arriving, he worked at a sawmill in Whonnock between 1909 and 1915 and at a sawmill in Abbotsford between 1915 and 1920.
Kuniyoshi moved to Mission in 1920 and bought 15 acres of land on Cherry Avenue to start farming (Map 1729, Lot 5). He later bought 20 additional acres to hold a total of 35 acres (Map 1729, Lot 6).
Klmiyoshi retired and returned to Japan in 1939 with his wife and 4 children. He left his farm to his 2 sons, Yoshitaka and Yoshio.
Kuniyoshi and Misue had 3 sons and 5 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Yoshio moved to a sugar beet farm in Diamond City, AB, and Yoshitaka to Vernon, B.C.
NAME: MORIYAMA, Toyoki (1889-1950) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Shimomashiki-gun, Kumanosho-machi SPOUSE: MORIYAMA, Haru (1892-1987)
Toyoki MORIYAMA immigrated to Canada in 1907. Between 1907 and 1920, Toyoki worked as a caretaker on Paisley Island, and at various jobs in Vancouver. In 1920, Toyoki moved to Durieu, north of Mission, to work at Peter Bain's logging camp.
Around 1927, Toyoki moved to Mission and bought 6 acres of land along Silverdale Road (7th Avenue) to start farming (Map 1720, Lot 18). He also farmed on 17 acres of leased land.
In 1939, Toyoki and Hikojiro MIYAGAWA jointly bought 20 acres of brush land at the NW comer of Wren St. and Silverdale Road (Map 1730, Lot 1) to grow hops.
Toyoki and Haru had 6 sons and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Toyoki and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Shaughnessy, AB.
NAME: MUKAIDA, Shinmatsu ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Saeki-gun, Kanokawa-mura SPOUSE:
It is unknown when Shinmatsu MUKAIDA immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in before he moved to Mission.
Shinmatsu moved to Mission around 1935 and bought 20 acres of land along Stave Lake Street to start farming (Map 1734, Lot 3).
Around 1937, a fire destroyed his rhubarb hothouse. He later sold his farm and moved to Dewdney.
NAME: NAGATA, Kikumatsu (1892-1940) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Tottori-ken, Saihaku-gun, Agarimichi-mura SPOUSE: NAGATA, Fuyu (1894-1984)
Kikumatsu NAGATA immigrated to Canada around 1930 and to Mission as a yobiyose of Asa ADACHI.
In 1935, he bought 5 acres of land that formerly belonged to Sensuke TANAKA (Map 1727, E½ of Lot 9). During the berry off season, Kikumatsu worked at nearby sawmills.
Kikumatsu and Fuyu had 5 sons.
During the evacuation of 1942, Fuyu and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Turin, AB.
NAME : NAITO, Kazuichi ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Asa-gun, Miiri-mura SPOUSE:
Kazuichi NAITO immigrated to Canada in 1916. It is believed that Kazuichi came as a yobiyose (sponsoring farmer is unknown).
In 1920, Kazuichi bought 12.5 acres to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 24 and N½ of Lot 19). However, he only farmed for a few years and left.
NAME: NAKAMURA, Heishichi (1862-1921) (1) (2) (3) SPOUSE: NAKAMURA, Masako (1867-1962) NAME: NAKAMURA, Chozaburo (1891-1986) SPOUSE: NAKAMURA, Kohide (1902-1962) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Kanzaki-gun, Iba-mura
Heishichi NAKAMURA immigrated to Tacoma, Washington in April of 1909. He worked as a farm hand in Auburn, Washington for 1.5 years and later for the Great Northern Railways for 1 year. Heishichi moved to Canada in late 1911. He tried farming on Lulu Island for a year but was not successful. He then moved to Chilliwack to work on a farm owned by a cannery.
Heishichi moved to Mission in 1914 and bought 10 acres of land on the east side of Wren Street to start farming (Map 1720, Lot 16). When Heishichi died in 1921, the farm was taken over and run by Heikichi, Heishichi' s youngest son and Ichitaro YAMADA until 1932 at which time, both returned to Japan. From 1932, the farm was run by Chozaburo, Heishichi's 3rd son, who was then working in Vancouver.
Heishichi and Masako had 4 sons and 1 daughter.
Chozaburo and Kohide had 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Masako, Chozaburo and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Iron Springs, AB.
NAME: NAKAMURA, Toyosaburo (1913-1994) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Asakura-gun, Yasukawa-mura SPOUSE: NAKAMURA, Chizuko (nee UYEMURA) (1919-20 )
Toyosaburo NAKAMURA immigrated to Canada and to Mission in 1933 as a yobiyose of Ichijiro UYEMURA. He continued working at the UYEMURA farm after his yobiyose contract. He was an active member of Seinenkai (Young Mens Group). From 1935 to 1941, Toyosaburo taught as an assistant teacher at Mission Japanese School and on Saturday mornings at Clayburn between 1937 and 1941.
In November, 1940, he married Chizuko, daughter of Ichijiro UYEMURA.
During the evacuation of 1942, Toyosaburo and Chizuko moved to sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB together with their parents.
NAME: NAKASHIMA, Fusato (1903-1983) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Hiroshima-shi, Eba-cho SPOUSE: NAKASHIMA, Hideko (1914- )
Fusato NAKASHIMA immigrated to Canada and Mission in 1924 as a yobiyose of his elder brother, Teizo NAKASHIMA. It is unknown what activities Fusato engaged in after his yobiyose obligation ended.
Fusato returned to Mission in the 1930s and farmed on leased land in the flats east of C.P.R. (Location unknown).
During the evacuation of 1942, Fusato and family moved to an internment camp in Tashme, B.C.
NAME: NAKASHIMA, Teizo (1889-1981) (1)(2)(3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Hiroshima-shi, Eba-cho SPOUSE: NAKASHIMA, Tsutayo (1896-1986)
Teizo NAKASHIMA immigrated to Canada in 1907. After arriving in Canada, he worked on a road building project near Burnaby Lake. In order to improve his English, he worked at a hotel in Vancouver. He later worked at another hotel in Kamloops. It was while Teizo was working here, that he became friends with Susumu UYEDA.
In November of 1910, Teizo and Susumu moved to Mission to farm as joint partners. They bought a 20 acre property at the end of Parr Road adjacent to HASHIZUME's farm (Map 1727, Lot 2). They later bought 10 acres of adjacent land (Map 1726, Lot 1). They also leased 20 acres along Lougheed Highway from St. Mary's Mission. This partnership farming continued till 1924 when UYEDA died due to illness.
In 1935, Teizo moved to Dewdney where he purchased 35 acres of farmland to continue farming. In 1940, Teizo bought an additional 15 acres on the west side of Hatzic Lake (Part of E half of Section 25, Township 17) to grow hops.
Teizo was one ofthe founding members of Kyoreikai and subsequent Nohkai and served several terms as its president and other important positions. Teizo was a pillar of the community and was very active in other community affairs including the building of the Japanese Christian Church even after moving to Dewdney. He was also actively engaged in the Hothouse Rhubarb and Hop Growers Union.
Tsutayo was a "picture" bride. She never saw Teizo in person until she arrived in Canada. Teizo and Tsutayo had 4 sons and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Teizo and family moved to a corn seed farm in Lethbridge, AB.
NAME: NAKASHIMA, Usaburo (1897-1975) (3) ORlGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Hiroshima-shi, Eba-cho SPOUSE: NAKASHIMA, Sato (1904-1991)
Usaburo NAKASHIMA immigrated to Canada and to Mission in 1914 as a yobiyose of his elder brother, Teizo NAKASHIMA. After working 3 years at his brother's farm, Usaburo moved to Toronto where he worked for the CPR and CNR at their roundhouse. He later returned to B.C. where he worked as a houseboy in Vancouver, as a cook on a boat fishing in Alaska and as a labourer in pulp and paper plants in Ocean Falls and Woodfibre.
Usaburo moved back to Mission in 1920 and bought 8 acres of land on Grand Street to start his own farm (Map 1721, Lot 13). He also farmed on leased land in Matsqui.
Usaburo and Sato had 2 sons and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Usaburo and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Raymond, AB.
NAME: NISHI, Taichiro (1882-1954) ORlGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Kaseda-mura SPOUSE: NISHI, Eda (nee SHIKAZE) (1891-1974)
Taichiro immigrated to Canada and to Mission in March of 1919 as a yobiyose of his brother-in-law, Kaemon SHIKAZE. After fulfilling his yobiyose obligations, Taichiro worked at logging camps and sawmills operated by his other brother-in-law, Kahei KAMIMURA.
Around 1935, Taichiro decided to go into farming for himself and bought 160 acres of brush land (Entire SW quarter of Section 2, Township 18, District of Hatzic Prairie). Section 2 lies directly north of Section 35 of Township 17. See Map 01.
Taichiro's wife, Eda, is the younger sister of Kaemon SHIKAZE and Kahei KAMIMURA. Taichiro and Eda had 3 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Taichiro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: NISHIYAMA, Kyuji (1887-1958) (1) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Inukami-gun, Toyosato-mura SPOUSE: NISHIYAMA, Ito ( -1933)
Kyuji NISHIYAMA immigrated to Canada in 1903. After arriving, he worked at Royal City Sawmill for 2 years and at Three Valley Sawmill for 3 years. Between 1908 and 1911, he worked for CPR. Between 1911 and 1912, he started a small delivery business but was unsuccessful. Between 1913 and 1915, he worked at Hastings Mill in Vancouver.
In December of 1915, Kyuji moved to Mission and bought 10 acres of land to start farming (Map 1720, Lot 15). He further leased and farmed several acres of nearby land.
Kyuji operated a small grocery store on the east side of Grand St. between First Ave. and North Railway Street that catered to the local Japanese community. This store unfortunately experienced a fire in July of 1927 and Kyuji later sold the store to Furuya Trading Co., a prominent grocer in Vancouver. Kyuji also experimented in the growing of rice on his farm but was not successful.
Kyuji and Ito had 2 sons and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kyuji and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Nobleford, AB.
NAME: HONMURA, Yaozo (1880-1960) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Inukami-gun, Kyutoku-mura SPOUSE: HONMURA, Kinu (1882-1957)
Yaozo HONMURA immigrated to Canada in 1912. After arriving, he worked at a sawmill in Sapperton (Port Moody).
Yaozo moved to Mission in 1919 and bought 13 acres of land fronting Lougheed Highway to start farming (Map1717, Lot 1 and Map 1720, Lot L). He was very active in the building of the Buddhist Church in Mission.
Yaozo and Kinu had 5 sons and 4 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Yaozo and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Brooks, AB.
NAME: ODA, Kyuya (1898-1978) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Inukami-gun, Fukumitsu-mura SPOUSE: ODA, Shizu (1904-1982)
Kyuya ODA immigrated to Canada with his father around 1910. As Kyuya was still a teenager when he immigrated, he worked as a schoolboy for a white family in Vancouver.
Kyuya moved to Mission in 1932 and bought 10 acres of land on the north side of Lougheed Highway from Yoshinobu INOUYE (Map 1719, Lot 2).
Kyuya and Shizu had 1 son and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kyuya and family moved to an internment camp in Tashme, B.C.
NAME: OGAWA, Tokusaburo (1887-1939) (2) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Chikujo-gun, Chizuka-mura SPOUSE: OGAWA, Kiyo (1895-1977)
Tokusaburo OGAWA immigrated to Canada in 1907. After arriving, he worked for the CPR and also at sawmills in New Westminster and Abbotsford.
Tokusaburo moved to Mission in 1918 and bought 10 acres of land on the west side of Dewdney Trunk Road to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 7). He later bought 9 additional acres at the SE corner of Cade Barr and Cherry Streets (Map 1728, Lot 11). During the berry off season, Tokusaburo commuted by bicycle to work at a sawmill in Abbotsford. Tokusaburo died from an unfortunate blasting accident in 1939 while helping his neighbour, Fumio SHONO. The farm was then taken over by his son, Yutaka.
Tokusaburo and Kiyo had 1 son and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Yutaka and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Nobleton, AB.
NAME: OHASHI, Jujiro (1887-1980) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Kanzaki-gun, Yahata-mura SPOUSE: OHASHI, Toki (1893-1986)
Jujiro OHASHI immigrated to Canada in 1909. After arriving, he worked at a sawmill in North Vancouver.
Jujiro OHASHI moved to Mission in 1918 and bought 10 acres of land on Billes Road (present 14th Ave.) (Map 1729, Lot 10). He later bought 20 additional acres adjacent to his farm (Map 1729, Lots 11 & 13). Aside from berries and vegetables, Jujiro had a thriving poultry farm of several thousand hens. Jujiro was an active member of the Mission Buddhist Church.
Jujiro and Toki had 5 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Jujiro and family moved to Lillooet, B.C.
NAME: OHKUMA, Yoichi (1895-1974) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Asakura-gun, Minaki-mura SPOUSE: OHKUMA, Hatsue (1900-1999)
Yoichi OHKUMA immigrated to Canada and to Mission in 1914 as a yobiyose of Tashiro HASHIZUME. After he worked his obligatory 3 year term, Yoichi worked at the farm of his cousin, Ichijiro UYEMURA. In 1918, he and Ichijiro jointly bought 5 acres of brush land (Map 1720, Lot 4). In 1920, they jointly bought 10 more acres (Map 1720, Lots 5 & 6). After clearing these lots, they agreed to split the jointly owned acreage as follows: Yoichi -10 acres (Lots 5 & 6) and Ichijiro -5 acres (Lot 4). Yoichi later bought 10 more acres in the Silverdale area and also another 4 acre lot in the centre of town (Map 1721, Lot 9). He also leased and farmed in Matsqui.
Yoichi was very active in Nohkai and Japanese Language School affairs in the 30s, and served several terms on their boards. He was also active in the Hothouse Rhubarb and Hop Growers Union.
Yoichi and Hatsue had 1 son and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Yoichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Coalhurst, AB.
NAME: OHNO, Kenzo (1895-1987) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Hiroshima-shi, Eba-cho SPOUSE: OHNO, Kimiyo (1895-1985)
Kenzo immigrated to Canada and to Mission in 1911 as a yobiyose of his uncle, Teizo NAKASHIMA. After working his obligatory 3 year term, Kenzo moved to Hornby Island to work at a sheep farm for 3 years. He also worked at a sawmill near Clayburn.
In 1919, Kenzo returned to Mission and bought 10 acres of land fronting Cade Barr Street to farm for himself (Map 1728, Lot 9). Kenzo was very active in Nohkai affairs.
Kenzo and Kimiyo had 4 sons and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kenzo and family move to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: OHNO, Tadao (1901-1939) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Hiroshima-shi, Eba-cho SPOUSE: OHNO, Mitsuyo (1908-20 )
Tadao OHNO immigrated to Canada and to Mission around 1921 as yobiyose of his brother, Kenzo OHNO. After fulfilling his yobiyose obligation, Tadao worked at a sawmill near Vancouver.
He returned to Mission in 1928 and farmed on land leased from St. Mary's Mission adjacent to YAHIRO's farm (Map 1722, Lots 1 & 2).
Tadao and Mitsuyo had 3 sons and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation, Mitsuyo and family accompanied by Fusao OHNO (son of Kenzo OHNO) moved to a sugar beet farm in Shaughnessy, AB.
NAME: OHSAWA, Genzaburo (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Sakata-gun, lrie-mura SPOUSE: OHSAWA, Hana
Data when Genzaburo OHSAWA immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged before moving to Mission are not known.
Genzaburo moved to Mission in 1920 and farmed on leased land (Map 1720, Lot 14). It is believed that Genzaburo farmed in Mission till 1930 and then moved elsewhere.
NAME: OIKAWA, Mitsu (1884-1964) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Miyagi-ken, Tome-gun, Maikawa-mura SPOUSE: OIKAWA, Hachisaburo (husband) (1883-1966)
Mitsu OIKAWA immigrated to Canada in 1912 as the wife of Hachisaburo OIKAWA. Hachisaburo immigrated to Canada in 1910. In Canada, Hachisaburo worked at various sawmills and logging camps.
Mitsu moved to Mission in 1929 with her 5 sons after she separated from her husband. The elder sons worked at logging camps near Mission to support the family.
During the evacuation of 1942, Mitsu moved to an internment camp in Tashme, B.C. while her sons moved to Griffen Lake in interior B.C.
NAME: OKABE, Denjiro (1887-1965) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kanagawa-ken, Naka-gun, Nishihatano-mura SPOUSE: OKABE, Taki (1897-1983)
Denjiro OKABE immigrated to Canada in 1907 aboard the "Kumeric". After arriving, he went to the Skeena River area to engage in salmon fishing. He later worked at various sawmills in Ruskin and Abbotsford. He also worked as a cook for a railway gang in Golden, B.C.
Denjiro moved to Mission in 1920 and bought 10 acres of land along Dewdney Trunk Road to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 3). He later bought 5 more acres of nearby land (Map 1728, S½ of Lot 20).
Denjiro and Taki had 4 sons and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Denjiro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: OKAMURA, Isaburo (1868-1932) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Yamaguchi-ken, Kumage-gun, Hirao-mura SPOUSE: OKAMURA, Sai (1894-1981)
Isaburo OKAMURA immigrated to Canada before 1900 and worked at a gold mine, somewhere in the Cariboo area.
In 1919, Isaburo moved to Mission and bought 4 acres of land to start farming (Map 1721, Lot 8). During the farming off season, he worked at a shingle plant in Stave Falls. Around 1930, Isaburo bought 8 more acres (Map 1721, Lot 17). When he died, his son, Masaru, took over the farm.
Isaburo and Sai had only 1 son.
During the evacuation of 1942, Sai and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Coalhurst, AB.
NAME: OKAMURA, Masaru (1906-1996) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Kikuchi-gun, Hiramaki-mura SPOUSE: OKAMURA, Fujiko (nee HISAOKA) (1915-2000)
Masaru OKAMURA immigrated to Canada in 1926 and to Mission as a yobiyose of his uncle-in-law, Keitaro SAITO. Masaru is the brother of Keitaro's wife, Shizu.
After his obligatory yobiyose term of 3 years, Masaru continued working for his uncle. In 1932, he bought 15 acres of land to farm for himself (Map 1728, Lot 23).
In 1935, he married Fujiko, daughter of Ichirohei HISAOKA. They had 3 sons who were born in Mission and a son and a daughter who were born in Alberta.
During the evacuation of 1942, Masaru and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: ONIZAKI, Sekimatsu ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Saeki-gun, Kanokawa-mura SPOUSE:
It is unknovm when Sekimatsu ONIZAKI immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in prior to moving to Mission.
Sekimatsu moved to Mission in 1932 and bought 5 acres of land on Stave Lake Road to start farming (Map 1727, Lot 17). During the berry off season, he worked at various sawmills near Mission.
It is unknown where Sekimatsu evacuated to in 1942.
NAME: ONO, Tokutaro ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kanagawa-ken, Ashigarakami-gun, Yoshidajima-mura SPOUSE:
It is unknown when Tokutaro ONO immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in prior to moving to Mission.
Tokutaro moved to Mission in 1919 and bought 10 acres of land on the west side of Dewdney Trunk Road to start farming (Map 1728, Lot 6). Around 1930, Tokutaro sold his farm to Genno HAYASHI and returned home to Japan.
NAME: ONODERA, Chonosuke ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Miyagi-ken, Tome-gun, Uenuma-mura SPOUSE:
It is unknown when Chonosuke ONODERA immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in prior to moving to Mission.
Chonosuke moved to Mission around 1928 and bought 5 acres of land (Map 1721, Lot 2) to start farming.
It is unknown where Chonosuke evacuated to in 1942.
NAME: SAITO, Kakuzo (1890-1952) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukushima-ken, Shinobu-gun, Kamata-mura SPOUSE: SAITO, Suye (1894-1990)
Kakuzo SAITO immigrated to Canada before 1920. After arriving, he worked at sawmills in Port Moody and Ruskin.
In 1926, Kakuzo moved to Mission and bought 15 acres of land to start farming (Map 1720, Lot B). This property formerly belonged to Sataro KUWABARA. Kakuzo was an active supporter of the Japanese Christian Church in Mission.
Kakuzo and Suye had 3 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kakuzo and family moved to New Denver, B.C.
NAME: SAITO, Keitaro (1877-1954) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Kikuchi-gun, Hiramaki-mura SPOUSE: SAITO, Fude ( -- ) SAITO, Shizu (1889-1966)
Keitaro SAlTO immigrated to Canada around 1907. After arriving, he worked at Brittania Mines and at various sawmills and logging camps in lower B.C.
Keitaro moved to Mission in 1920 and bought 20 acres of land to start farming (Map 1728, Lots 18 & 21). He later sold 10 acres (Map 1728, Lot 21) to Shotaro SATO.
Keitaro and Fude had 1 son, and with Shizu, no children.
During the evacuation of 1942, Keitaro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Kipp, AB.
NAME: SAKON, Bunjiro (1883-1975) (1) (2) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Tottori-ken, Saihaku-gun, Amariko-mura SPOUSE: SAKON, Tsuka (1891-1956)
Bunjiro SAKON immigrated to Canada in July of 1900. From 1900 to 1904, he engaged in salmon fishing, worked at various sawmills and logging camps. Later, together with fellow ken compatriots, Bunjiro operated a logging camp for a few years. However, this venture failed and forced him to look elsewhere for work.
In 1912, Bunjiro moved to Mission and bought 20 acres of land to start farming (Map 1734, Lot 1). He later bought 20 additional acres (Map 1734, Lot 2).
Bunjiro was one of the founding members of the Kyoreikai and subsequent Nohkai and served in various capacities on its board. After a few years of trial and error, Bunjiro developed a method of "forced" growing of rhubarb indoors during the winter months. This provided many farmers not only in Mission but also in neighbouring districts such as Whonnock and Maple Ridge with extra work and income. In recognition for this outstanding development, Bunjiro was awarded the prestigious Certificate of Meritorious Service by the Japan Industry Association. As the developer of the "Hothouse" rhubarb, Bunjiro was very active in the operation of the "Hothouse Rhubarb Growers Union" that was formed to control not only quality but also overproduction. In the early 1930s, Bunjiro also developed a type of strawberry that can be grown and harvested in late summer and early autumn. This type ofstrawberry was called "Autumn Strawberry" or "Late Strawberry", and many farmers in the community grew them.
Bunjiro and Tsuka had 4 sons and 5 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Bunjiro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: SAKON, Mataichi (1) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Tottori-ken, Saihaku-gun, Amariko-mura SPOUSE: SAKON, Yae
Mataichi SAKON immigrated to Seattle in January of 1904 and worked for a white family there for 3 years. He entered Canada in 1907. Mataichi ran a small logging camp which he sold to a compatriot friend a year later.
In 1912, together with his younger brother, Bunjiro, Mataichi moved to Mission. He bought a 10.6 acre property fronting Dewdney Trunk Road (Map 1727, Lot 7) to start farming. In 1934, Mataichi bought 20 additional acres (Map 1727, Lot 22) to hold a total of 30.6 acres.
Mataichi and Yae had 1 son.
During the evacuation of 1942, Mataichi moved to a sugar beet farm in Nobleford, AB.
NAME: SASAKI, Choichi (1895-1951) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Tottori-ken, Saihaku-gun, Agarimichi-mura SPOUSE: SASAKI, Haru (1903-1991)
Choichi SASAKI immigrated to Canada in 1908 when he was only 13 years old. He was called over by his father, Jintaro. Choichi went to school for a few years and later fished for salmon with his father. Choichi later moved to Chilliwack where he worked at a logging camp.
In 1932, Choichi moved to Mission and bought 10 acres of land fronting Stave Lake Road (Map 1727, Lot 16) to start farming.
Choichi and Haru had 3 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Choichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Coalhurst, AB.
NAME: SATO, Shotaro (1884-1961) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Kikuchi-gun, Ohzu-cho SPOUSE: SATO, Shime (1895-1964)
It is unknown when Shotaro SATO immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in while in Canada.
Shotaro moved to Mission around 1924 and bought 4 acres of land (Map 1721, Lot 14) to start farming. He later bought 10 acres from Keitaro SAITO (Map 1728, Lot 21) to hold a total of 14 acres.
Shotaro and Shime had 3 sons and 6 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Shotaro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: SENDA, Kaichi (1874-1946) (2) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Okayama-ken, Tsukubo-gun, Sho-mura SPOUSE: SENDA, Sugako (1884-1973)
Kaichi SENDA immigrated to the U.S. and Portland around 1898. He lived and worked there for about 5 years. During the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-05, he returned to Japan to serve in the Fifth Regiment of Okayama.
After being discharged from the army, Kaichi set his sights overseas again and immigrated to Canada in May of 1907. From 1907 to 1918, Kaichi worked first as a farm hand for a white farmer and later at a sawmill in Abbotsford.
Kaichi moved to Mission in July of 1918 and bought 18 acres of land (Map 1728, Lot 4) to start farming. As a pioneer settler here, the area around SENDA's farm was affectionately called Senda-mura.
Kaichi was very active in community affairs including Nohkai and Japanese Language School affairs. In 1932, Kaichi donated 0.4 acres of his property so that the community could build a branch school there (Map 1728, Lot S).
Kaichi and Sugako had 4 sons and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kaichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Nobleford, AB.
NAME: SHIGEHIRO, Tokutaro (1874-1965) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Asa-gun, Yagi-mura SPOUSE: SHIGEHIRO, Kinu (1889-1951)
Tokutaro SHIGEHIRO originally immigrated to Hawaii in 1906 and worked on a farm there till 1910. He then sailed for Canada. After arriving in Canada, Tokutaro mainly worked at various logging camps.
In July of 1918, Tokutaro moved to Mission and bought 13 acres (Map 1721, Lot 20) to start farming.
Tokutaro and Kinu had 2 sons and 4 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Tokutaro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Shaughnessy, AB.
NAME: SHlKAZE, Kaemon (1888-1965) (I) (2) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Kaseda-mura SPOUSE: SHIKAZE, Eda (1898-1999)
Kaemon SHlKAZE immigrated to Canada in September of 1907 with his elder brother, Nijiro. After arriving, they both worked as members of a railway gang, on Canadian Pacific Railway projects in Alberta and Saskachewan for approx. 1½ years. In 1909, Kaemon returned to Vancouver where he worked for a firewood company for several years. In 1917, Kaemon moved to Mission and bought 28 acres fronting Dewdney Trunk Road (Map 1727, Lot 6) to start farming. He later sold this property to his brothers, Kahei and Kaichi, and moved into Mission proper where he bought 10 acres (Map 1721, Lot 4). He later bought 2.4 more acres adjacent to his property (Map 1721, Lot 3). In addition to farming, Kaemon sold firewood to Mission residents including compatriots. Kaemon was an active supporter of the Nohkai and the Japanese Language School. Kaemon and Eda had 5 sons and 3 daughters. During the evacuation of 1942, Kaemon and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: SHIKAZE, Kaichi ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Kaseda-mura SPOUSE: SHIKAZE, Akiye (nee NATSUKOSHI) SHIKAZE, Shizu (nee NATSUKOSHl)
Kaichi SHIKAZE immigrated to Canada and to Mission around 1918 as a yobiyose of his elder brother, Nijiro.
Kaichi bought 14 acres (Map 1727, E½ of Lot 6) from his other elder brother, Kaemon. He farmed for a while and later worked together with his other brother, Kahei, in running a sawmill by the river in Mission and also a logging camp in Steelhead.
Kaichi and Akiye had 1 son and 2 daughters, and with Shizu, 2 sons and 2 daughters.
At the outbreak of the Pacific War, Kaichi's family were in Japan. Therefore, Kaichi was sent to an internment camp in Angler, ON.
NAME: SHIKAZE, Nijiro (1883-1945) (1) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Kaseda-mura SPOUSE: SHIKAZE, Ito (nee AYUKAWA)
Nijiro SHIKAZE immigrated to Canada in 1907 with his brother, Kaemon. Together, they worked as members ofa railway construction gang on CPR projects in Alberta and Saskachewan for 1.5 years.
Nijiro then returned to Vancouver and worked as a gardener for several white families in Point Grey. Between 1914 and 1916, he worked at Brittania Mines. In 1917, Nijiro moved to Mission and bought 14 acres of land adjacent to his brother, Kaemon to start farming (Map 1727, Lot 5).
In 1922, Nijiro sold his farm to his younger brother, Kahei, and returned home to Japan with his family.
NAME: SHIMODA, Kumeji ( -1953) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Hiroshima-ken, Asa-gun, Tomo-mura SPOUSE: SHIMODA, Chiyono (1887-1964)
It is unknown when Kumeji SHIMODA immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in prior to moving to Mission.
In 1920, Kumeji moved to Mission and bought 5 acres of land (Map 1720, Lot 3) to start farming. Around 1926, he bought 10 additional acres (Map 1720, Lot K). In 1934, together with Takehachi MITSUNAGA and lchijiro UYEMURA, Kumeji bought 9 acres (Map 1720, Lot J) to grow "autumn" strawberries.
Kumeji and Chiyono had 4 sons and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kumeji and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: SHIMOMURA, Tomosuke (1879-1953) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Kaseda-mura SPOUSE: SHIMOMURA, Kawa (1898-1961)
It is unknown when Tomosuke SHIMOMURA immigrated to Canada. After arriving, he worked for several years as a tailor in Vancouver.
Tomosuke moved to Mission in 1921 and bought 10 acres of land fronting Dewdney Trunk Road (Map 1727, Lot 13) to start farming.
Tomosuke and Kawa had 2 sons and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Tomosuke and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Lethbridge, AB.
NAME: SHlRAKAWA, Tadaichi (1888-1972) (2)(3) SPOUSE: SHIRAKAWA, Ise (1896-1979) NAME: INABA, Masanobu (1916-20 ) SPOUSE: INABA, Fumiko (1919-20 ) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Chikujo-gun, Nishisuda-mura
Tadaichi SHIRAKAWA immigrated to Canada in July of 1907 aboard the "Kumeric". After arriving, he worked at the hydro-electric power plant construction in Ruskin (1907), as a member of a railway construction gang in Alberta (1908), and in Vancouver as a domestic and also as a bus boy (1909). In the meantime, Tadaichi attended night school at a Methodist Church to learn English.
He also worked on the construction of BC Electric Railway Line between Vancouver, Burnaby Lake and New Westminster as a foreman and interpreter of some 30 Japanese labourers (1910), as a kitchen help at a shingle mill camp in Loughborough Inlet (1911), as a cook at a hospital (1913) and at a sawmill in Swanson Bay (1914-1917).
Tadaichi moved to Mission in February of 1918 and bought 10 acres of land at the SW corner of Cedar St. and Cherry Ave. (Map 1729, Lot 1). He later bought 10 more acres (Map 1729, Lot 8).
In 1938, due to health reasons, Tadaichi decided to retire from farming. He transferred his farm to his daughter, Fumiko, and his son-in-law, Masanobu INABA, and returned to Japan with the rest of his family. Masanobu INABA came to Canada in 1934 as yobiyose of Tadaichi.
Tadaichi and Ise had 1 son and 2 daughters.
Masanobu and Fumiko had 5 boys and 2 girls.
During the evacuation of 1942, Masanobu and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: SHONO, Hikozo ( -1933) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Chikujo-gun, Katsuragi-mura SPOUSE: SHONO, Natsu ( -1930) SHONO, Nami ( -- )
Hikozo SHONO immigrated to Canada around 1907. He first worked at sawmills near Vancouver and later for Furuya, a grocery store in Vancouver.
Hikozo moved to Mission in 1920 and bought 10 acres of land (Map 1728, Lot 8) to start farming. After Natsu's death in 1933, Hikozo married Nami. After Hikozo's death, Nami married Susumu YOKOYAMA, a yobiyose of Tokusaburo OGAWA.
Hikozo and Natsu had 1 son and 1 daughter. After Hikozo died, his daughter, Miyoko, married Fumio SHONO, a nephew of Hikozo, who came and worked at the farm as a yobiyose.
During the evacuation of 1942, Miyoko and family moved to Kamloops, B.C.
NAME: SUGIMURA, Kaichi (1883-1930) (1) (2) (3) SUGIYAMA, Kamekichi (1893-1976) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shizuoka-ken, Haibara-gun, Itsuwa-mura SPOUSE: SUGIMURA, Chiyo (1892-1962)
Kaichi SUGIMURA immigrated to Canada in October of 1906. After arriving, he worked at a farm in Comox for 1½ years. He later farmed jointly with KISHIMOTO and NAKANO in Courtenay for 2 years.
In 1912, Kaichi moved to Mission and in joint partnership with Eiichi DOHZEN, bought 5 acres of land (Map 1720, N½ ofLot 19) to start farming. This partnership continued till 1922, when DOHZEN returned home to Japan. Kaichi later bought the S½ of Lot 19. He also leased and farmed more nearby acreages. In addition to the usual berries and rhubarb, Kaichi also raised poultry.
Kaichi died in 1930 due to an accident. Chiyo later married Kamekichi SUGIYAMA who had come in 1928 as a yobiyose and worked on the SUGIMURA farm. Chiyo and Kamekichi sold the farm and moved to a new farm in Clayburn.
Kaichi and Chiyo had 5 sons and 2 daughters. Kamekichi and Chiyo had 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kamekichi, Chiyo and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Welling, AB.
NAME: TAHARA, Rinzo (1875- ) (1) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kochi-ken, Takaoka-gun, Takaoka-cho SPOUSE: TAHARA, Shimazu ( -- )
Rinzo TAHARA immigrated to Canada in September of 1907 via Hawaii. After arriving in Canada, he worked as a member ofa railway construction gang for the Great Northern Railways. He also worked at a logging camp in Swanson Bay and also did some salmon fishing for Claxton Canneries on the Skeena River. Between 1910 and 1913, Rinzo operated a Japanese restaurant in Vancouver.
Rinzo moved to Matsqui in 1913 and bought 10 acres of land to start farming. In 1919, he bought 13.8 acres (Map 1720, Lot E) to farm also in Mission.
Rinzo and Shimazu had 2 sons and 5 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Rinzo and family moved to Kamloops, B.C.
NAME: TAISE, Hachiro (1882-1982) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Uto-gun, Tobase-mura SPOUSE: TAISE, Matsuyo (1894-1987)
Hachiro TAISE immigrated to Canada in 1907 via Hawaii. After arriving in Canada, he worked at various sawmills and logging camps.
Hachiro moved to Mission in 1936 and farmed on leased land (Map 1720, Lot 20). He moved to Mt. Lehman in 1938.
During the evacuation of 1942, Hachiro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: TAJIRI, Juro (1881-1959) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Hotaku-gun, Yoshino-mura SPOUSE: TAJIRI, Shizuka (1895-1955)
Juro TAJIRI immigrated to Canada in 1906. After arriving in Canada, Juro worked at various logging camps in Salt Spring Island and vicinities of Vancouver and Mission.
Juro moved to Mission in 1930 and farmed on leased land (Map 1720, Lot 19). Juro also farmed on 6.5 acres of leased land (Map 1720, Lot 9).
Juro and Shizuka had 4 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Juro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: TAKAMOTO, Suegoro ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken SPOUSE:
It is unknown when Suegoro TAKAMOTO immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in prior to moving to Mission.
Suegoro moved to Mission around 1926 and bought 4.1 acres (Map 1721, Lot 5) to start farming. Suegoro farmed here for only a few years and moved elsewhere.
NAME: TAKAOKA, Masaharu ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Tokyo-fu SPOUSE:
It is unknown when Masaharu TAKAOKA immigrated to CANADA and what activities he engaged in prior to moving to Mission.
Masaharu moved to Mission around 1936 and farmed on leased land (Map 1720, Lot 12).
Other details on TAKAOKA are unknown.
NAME: TAKEI, Kiyomi ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Asakura-gun, Asakura-mura SPOUSE:
Data when Kiyomi TAKEI immigrated to Canada is unknown, however he came as a yobiyose of Katsubei FUKAMI.
After fulfilling his yobiyose obligation, Kiyomi left Mission to pursue other activities. He returned to Mission around 1936 and bought 10 acres of land fronting Dewdney Trunk Road to start farming (Map 1733, Lot 3).
It is unknown where Kiyomi and family moved to during the evacuation of 1942.
NAME: TANAKA, Sensuke (1886- ) (1) (2) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Asakura-gun, Minaki-mura SPOUSE: TANAKA, Asa ( -- )
Sensuke TANAKA immigrated to Canada via Hawaii in 1907 aboard the "Kumeric". After arriving, he worked for the Great Northern Railways. He then worked at Harrison Mills for approx. 4 years. Later, Sensuke moved to Mission in 1913 to work at a jam plant.
While working at the jam plant, Sensuke decided to farm and bought 5 acres of brush land fronting Dewdney Trunk Road (Map 1727, E½ of Lot 9). He later bought 10 more acres (Map 1727, Lot 8). Sensuke was one of the founding members of the Kyoreikai and subsequent Nohkai and served several terms as its treasurer and secretary.
Sensuke and Asa had 3 sons.
In 1935, Sensuke sold his farm and returned to Japan.
NAME: TASHIRO, Giichiro (1879-1939) (2) SPOUSE: TASHIRO, Hyaku ( ) NAME: TASHIRO, Eiji (1902-1992) SPOUSE: TASHIRO, Yasu (1904-1998) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Chikujo-gun, Shiida-machi
Giichiro immigrated to Canada in 1907 via Hawaii. After arriving, he worked at various sawmills and logging camps near Vancouver. From 1910 to 1917, he worked at a gold mine near Atlin, B.C. where he rose to become a foreman of Japanese workers. From 1917 to 1920, he worked at a sawmill in Aldergrove as a foreman.
In 1920, Giichiro moved to Mission and bought 10 acres of land to start farming (Map 1729, Lot 2).
Eiji TASHIRO (son) immigrated to Canada in 1917 when he was called over by his father. He worked as a bookkeeper at a grocery store in Vancouver. He later joined his father in Aldergrove and to Mission to assist on the farm. Around 1932, Eiji bought 10 acres to farm for himself (Map 1729, Lot 4). He later bought another 2.5 acres (Map 1729, Lot 3).
Giichiro and Hyaku had 3 sons. Eiji and Yasu had 1 son and 3 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Hyaku, Eiji and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Diamond City, AB.
NAME: TATEBE, Kyusaburo (1886-1962) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Echi-gun, Inae-mura SPOUSE: TATEBE, Koto (1888-1915) TATEBE, Chiye (1893-1990)
Kyusaburo TATEBE immigrated to Canada in 1904. After arriving, he worked at various sawmills in Vancouver, Merritt and Abbotsford.
Kyusaburo moved to Mission in 1917 and bought 5 acres of already cleared land to start farming (Map 1729, E½ of Lot 9). He later bought the W½ of Lot 9 (5 acres) and a further 8½ acres of brush land in the west part of town (Map 1720, Lot 11).
Kyusaburo was active in Buddhist Church affairs.
Kyusaburo and Koto had 1 son and with Chiyo, 3 sons and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kyusaburo and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: TATEYAMA, Iwasuke ( -1950) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kagoshima-ken, Kawanabe-gun, Kaseda-mura SPOUSE: TATEYAMA, Sumi ( -1974)
It is unknown when Iwasuke TATEYAMA immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in prior to moving to Mission.
Around 1921, Iwasuke moved to Mission and bought 10 acres of land to start farming (Map 1727, Lot 12). He also bought some property in Dewdney and farmed there.
Sumi and Eda SHIKAZE (Mrs. Kaemon SHIKAZE) are sisters. Iwasuke and Sumi had 1 son and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Iwasuke and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Lethbridge, AB.
NAME: TOMOMITSU, Haruichi (1886-1971) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Okayama-ken, Kibi-gun, Takamatsu-cho SPOUSE: TOMOMITSU, Itoko (1902-1988)
It is unknown when Haruichi TOMOMITSU immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in prior to moving to Mission.
Haruichi moved to Mission around 1938 and bought 5 acres of land to start farming (Map 1733,Lot4).
During the evacuation of 1942, Haruichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Alberta.
NAME: TONOMURA, Senjiro (1872-1932) (1) (2) (3) SPOUSE: TONOMURA, Kuni (1871-1959) NAME: TONOMURA, Moichiro (1898-1989) SPOUSE: TONOMURA, Tsuma (1901-1978) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Kanzaki-gun, Minamigokasho-mura
Senjiro immigrated to Canada in 1900. After arriving in Canada, he worked at Hastings Mill in Vancouver. He later opened a boarding house in Vancouver.
In May of 1913, Senjiro moved to Mission and bought 20 acres of brush land on the west side of Wren St. (Map 1719, Lot 3) to start farming. In 1924, he bought an additional 5 acres on the east side of Wren St. (Map 1720, Lot 13).
Moichiro came to Canada in 1910 and immediately helped his father in the boarding room business. He moved to Mission with his father to assist in the clearing and farming on their newly acquired land. After Senjiro's death in 1932, Moichiro took over the farm.
Senjiro was actively involved in the building of the Buddhist Church in Mission.
Senjiro and Kuni had 3 sons and 1 daughter. Moichiro and Tsuma had 2 sons and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kuni and Moichiro' s wife and children moved to an internment camp in Lemon Creek, B.C. Moichiro went to a road camp in Angler, ON.
NAME: TSUBONE, Tohzo ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken SPOUSE:
It is unknown when Tohzo TSUBONE immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in prior to moving to Mission.
Tohzo farmed on leased land (Map 1720, Lot 12) for a brief period in the 1930s and left. Other details on Tohzo are unknown.
NAME: TSUJI, Kamejiro (1870-1944) (1) (2) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Shiga-ken, Echi-gun, Haemi-mura SPOUSE: TSUJI, Suye (1877-1949)
Kamejiro immigrated to Canada in October, 1907. After arriving, Kamejiro worked as a restaurant cook (1907-1908), at Heaps Mill (1908-1912) and sawmills in Spolling and Canford (1913-1917). In 1917, Kamejiro called over his then entire family of 3 sons and 1 daughter to Canada.
In 1917, Kamejiro moved to Mission and bought 5 acres (Map 1720, Lot 17) to start farming. Kamejiro was a devout Buddhist and served as a lay minister. He was also instrumental in the founding of the Buddhist church in Mission. His Canadian born son, Takashi, was sent to Japan in 1938 to study Buddhism and become a priest.
Kamejiro and Suye had 4 sons and 1 daughter. His only daughter, Teruko married Yoshinobu INOUYE.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kamejiro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: UMENO, Makoto ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken SPOUSE: UMENO, Shizuyo (nee HAYASHI)
It is unknown when Makoto UMENO immigrated to Canada. After arriving, he worked at various sawmills in Squamish and Ocean Falls.
In 1930, Makoto moved to Mission and bought 5 acres of land (Map 1721, Lot 23) to start farming. During the farming off season, he worked at nearby sawmills.
Makoto and Shizuo had 1 son.
It is unknown where Makoto and family moved to during the evacuation of 1942.
NAME: UMETSU, Seikichi (1890-1937) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukushima-ken, Shinobu-gun, Mizuho-mura SPOUSE: UMETSU, Kiu (nee ENDO) (1894-1984)
Seikichi immigrated to Canada in 1911. After arriving in Canada, he worked at a logging camp in Powell River. Seikichi was injured in an accident at the camp which prompted him to move to Vancouver. In Vancouver, he operated a small confectionery store and a rooming house.
In 1920, Seikichi moved to Mission and bought 20 acres of land (Map 1720, Lots G, H & I) to start farming. He later sold Lot I to Yuzo WATANABE. When Seikichi died in 1937, the farm was run by his son, Seiji.
Seikichi and Kiu had 3 sons and 4 daughters. Kiu is the younger sister of Torashichi ENDO.
During the evacuation of 1942, Kiu and family moved to an internment camp in Tashme, B.C. Her 2 sons, Seiji and Minoru went to a road camp in Griffen Lake, B.C.
NAME: USHIJIMA, Katsuji ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Miyagi-ken, Shida-gun, Kashimadai-mura SPOUSE: USHIJIMA, Kiyo (1902-1936)
Katsuji USHIJIMA immigrated to Canada in 1914. After arriving in Canada, he first worked in logging camps. He opened a small store in Vancouver but was not successful.
He moved to Mission around 1931 and opened a small clothing and sewing store on Main Street. He and his family left Mission in 1934 to work at a logging camp operated by his uncle, Kinji TAKAHASHI.
NAME: UYEDA, Susumu (1889-1924) (1) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukushima-ken, Soma-gun, Ohno-mura SPOUSE: UYEDA, Ritsuko (1898-1990)
Susumu UYEDA immigrated to Hawaii in 1906 where he worked at a sugar cane farm. In 1907, he boarded the "Kumeric" and landed in Canada. After arriving in Canada, he worked at a restaurant in New Westminster for a year. Between 1908 and 1910, Susumu worked at a hotel in Kamloops where he became friends with Teizo NAKASHIMA.
In November of 1910, in partnership with Teizo NAKASHIMA, Susumu bought 20 acres of brush land at the end of Parr Ave. (Map 1727, Lot 2) to start farming. They further bought 10 more acres of adjacent land (Map 1726, Lot 1). They also farmed on 20 acres of land fronting Lougheed Highway east of Mission that was leased from St. Mary's Mission.
Susumu was one of the founding members of the Kyoreikai and subsequent Nohkai, and served several terms on its board as secretary and/or treasurer.
After Susumu passed away in 1924, Susumu's wife, Ritsuko, sold her share in the partnership to Teizo NAKASHIMA and moved to Vancouver where she worked as a seamstress and also as a teacher at the Japanese Language School.
Susumu and Ritsuko had 1 son and 1 daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Ritsuko moved to a farm in Popoff, B.C.
NAME: UYEMURA, Ichijiro (1887-1946) (1) (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Asakura-gun, Minaki-mura SPOUSE: UYEMURA, Sumako (1888-1971)
Ichijiro UYEMURA immigrated to Canada in 1906 via Hawaii. After arriving in Canada, he worked as a member of CPR's railway construction gang at Rogers Pass for a few months and later moved to Nanaimo to work as a domestic hand for a white family. He then worked at Extension Mines for 2 years and at Halton Mills for 4 years.
In June of 1913, Ichijiro moved to Mission and bought 5 acres ofbrush land fronting Lougheed Highway (Map 1720, Lot 1) to start farming. In 1918, in joint partnership with his cousin, Yoichi OHKUMA, bought 5 acres (Map 1720, Lot 4) and in 1920, a further 10 acres (Map 1720, Lots 5 & 6). After clearing of the farm was completed, Ichijiro and Yoichi decided to end their joint partnership with Ichijiro owning Lot 4 and Yoichi owning Lots 5 & 6. Together with Takehachi MITSUNAGA and Kumeji SHIMODA, Ichijiro bought 9 acres in 1934 (Map 1720, Lot J) to grow late strawberries. In addition to growing the usual berries and vegetables, Ichijiro operated an apiary of some 30 hives. Ichijiro was one ofthe founding members of the Kyoreikai and subsequent Nohkai.
Ichijiro and Sumako had one daughter.
During the evacuation of 1942, Ichijiro and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: WATANABE, Yuzo ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukushima-ken, Shinobu-gun, Hirata-mura SPOUSE:
It is unknown when Yuzo WATANABE immigrated to Canada and what activities he engaged in prior to moving to Mission.
Around 1928, Yuzo moved to Mission and bought 8 acres of land from Seikichi UMETSU (Map 1720, Lot I) to start farming. Around 1936, Yuzo bought 20 more acres (Map 1729, Lot 12).
Other information regarding the WATANABE family is unknown.
NAME: YAHIRO, Takichi (2) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Fukuoka-ken, Asakura-gun, Yasu-mura SPOUSE: YAHIRO, Kin
Takichi YAHIRO immigrated to Canada in 1907. After arriving in Canada, he worked mainly in logging camps and sawmills in lower B.C.
In 1919, Takichi moved to Mission and bought 9 acres of land fronting Stave Lake Road (Map 1722, Lots 1 & 2).
Takichi and Kin had 3 sons and 2 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Takichi and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.
NAME: YAKO, Tokuzo (1889-1974) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kanagawa-ken, Ashigarakami-gun, Kitaashigara-mura SPOUSE: YAKO, Kiri (1899-1983)
Tokuzo YAKO immigrated to Canada in 1907. Since arriving, he worked mainly at a sawmill in Victoria.
Tokuzo moved to Mission in 1920 and bought 10 acres of land fronting Dewdney Trunk Road (Map 1728, Lot 5) to start farming.
Tokuzo and Kiri had 3 sons and 4 daughters.
During the evacuation of 1942, Tokuzo and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Diamond City, AB.
NAME: YANOSHITA, Torakuma (1882-1966) (3) ORIGINAL DOMICILE: Kumamoto-ken, Kamimashiki-gun, Shirohata-mura SPOUSE: YANOSHITA, Ichi (1889-1929) YANOSHITA, Hatsune (1892-1976)
Torakuma YANOSHITA immigrated to Canada in 1900. After arriving in Canada, he worked as a domestic for a white family in Vancouver. He also worked as a tailor in Victoria for a few years. He also engaged in salmon fishing in the Nass and Skeena River areas.
In 1919, Torakuma moved to Mission and bought 10 acres of land (Map 1720, Lot C) to start farming. He later bought 10 more acres (Map 1720, Lot D). He also farmed 15 acres of leased land in Matsqui just across the river and west of CPR. He was active in Nohkai and Japanese Language School affairs and also in Hothouse Rhubarb and Hop Growers Unions.
Torakuma and Ichi had 4 sons and 5 daughters, and with Hatsune, 1 son.
During the evacuation of 1942, Torakuma and family moved to a sugar beet farm in Picture Butte, AB.

Metadata

Title

Japanese Community in Mission: A Brief History, 1904–1942
Publication Information: See Terms of Use for publication and licensing information.
Source: Hashizume, William T. Japanese community in Mission : a brief history 1904 - 1942, Scarborough, Ont: William T. Hashizume, 2003.

Terminology

Readers of these historical materials will encounter derogatory references to Japanese Canadians and euphemisms used to obscure the intent and impacts of the internment and dispossession. While these are important realities of the history, the Landscapes of Injustice Research Collective urges users to carefully consider their own terminological choices in writing and speaking about this topic today as we confront past injustice. See our statement on terminology, and related sources here.