Every bit of Idaho history is worth exploring, even the parts that aren’t so pretty. During the days of World War II, over 110,000 Japanese-Americans were forced to leave their homes and belongings behind in order to live at one of the many incarceration sites situated around the country. Idaho was one of the states that contained a Japanese internment camp, now known as the Minidoka National Historic Site, and you can actually visit it and see it for yourself. In fact, the park recently opened a fancy new Visitor Center that provides an even deeper look into the history of this place.
When President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed an executive order 78 years ago, tens of thousands of Japanese-Americans were forced to leave their homes for incarceration camps. One of these camps resided in Jerome, Idaho and is known today as the Minidoka National Historic Site.
Spanning 33,000-acres of agricultural fields in the vast Southern Idaho landscape, visiting Minidoka is something that every Idahoan should experience. This is not a cheerful bit of American history but it's one that's important to remember, and the brand new Visitor Center at Minidoka NHS helps with just that.
The ribbon was officially cut on this brand new Visitor Center on February 22, 2020, and it adds a ton to the historic site. Located inside a structure that once served as Minidoka's automotive repair shop, this state-of-the-art space gives visitors a glimpse at the camp's history like never before.
The center includes a ranger information desk, theater and exhibition space, bookstore, and an exhibit called "The Issei: A Legacy of Courage" installed by the Friends of Minidoka. It's truly a breathtaking dedication.
While perusing the center, you'll see plenty of photographs and other visual depictions of what life at Minidoka entailed. The center also regularly screens two park films which talk about Minidoka's history and the culture that thrived here despite the conditions.
Over 13,000 Japanese-Americans were incarcerated at Minidoka. Comprised of 36 housing blocks, a mess hall, laundry facilities, worship and education centers, several schools, general stores, barber shops, and repair shops, Minidoka was like a small city in this remote landscape. The camp is a huge part of Southern Idaho's history, and it's something that everybody should take the time to experience.
If you have yet to make a trip out to Minidoka NHS, consider the new Visitor Center an excellent reason to do so. The park is open year-round, seven days a week. Both guided and self-guided tours are provided. More information about the historic site and what you can expect during your visit can be found here.
Have you visited the Minidoka National Historic Site recently? This piece of Idaho history is grim, but it’s so important to know about it. Check out more places that are teeming with history when you visit these 10 Famous Historical Landmarks In Idaho.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
