Minidoka National Historic Site-Bainbridge Island Unit

The stars aligned on our roadtrip when I learned that the birthplace of Pickleball also had a NPS Unit. While Bo was on a conference call, I explored the park and paid tribute to those who deserved freedom. As I learned in Japan when we visited Hiroshima, the origami paper cranes represent peace. It was so lovely to see them on display at this memorial. History is at often times hard to accept, but with its memory told truthfully, hopefully it will not repeat itself.

“These paper cranes come originally from the ancient Japanese tradition of origami or paper folding, but today they are known as a symbol of peace. They are folded as a wish for peace in many countries around the world.”

And a reminder to never forget …

“After the attack on Pearl Harbor by Japanese forces on December 7, 1941, President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066. This order gave authority to the War Department to create zones from which Japanese Americans could be excluded. The first exclusion area designated was Bainbridge Island. On March 30, 1942, the Japanese Americans living on Bainbridge Island were gathered at the Eagledale Ferry Dock and sent to the concentration camp in Manzanar, California before being transferred to Minidoka.”

And a Pro-Tip for NPS Unit Stamp Collectors, you can get your Minidoka Bainbridge Island Stamp in Seattle at the Klondike Gold Rush Unit.