Digital Exhibition

Lives That Shaped Bowen Island

THE STORY OF THE JAPANESE CANADIAN COMMUNITY THAT HELPED SHAPE BOWEN ISLAND.

From the industrial coast to close-knit island communities, Japanese Canadians built lives, raised families, and contributed to the places we share today.

This exhibition explores their journey - from opportunity and achievement to forced removal, and the enduring legacy that continues.

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Digital Exhibition

Lives That Shaped Bowen Island

THE STORY OF THE JAPANESE CANADIAN COMMUNITY THAT HELPED SHAPE BOWEN ISLAND.

From the industrial coast to close-knit island communities, Japanese Canadians built lives, raised families, and contributed to the places we share today.

This exhibition explores their journey - from opportunity and achievement to forced removal, and the enduring legacy that continues.

A Journey Through Time
Japanese Immigrants in Victoria, BC (1907). Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, JCCC Original Photographic Collection, 2001.6.5
Japanese Immigrants in Victoria, BC (1907). Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, JCCC Original Photographic Collection, 2001.6.5

1.

Why They Came

Life in Japan, the decision to leave, and the journey to Canada.

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2.

Industrial Coast

Working in logging, mining, fishing and other industries along the Howe Sound.

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3.

Bowen Island

Building homes, businesses and community life on the island.

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4.

Forced Removal

The forced removal and its profound impact on families and communities.

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5.

Legacy

Remembering the past, seeking redress, and creating hope for the future.

Featured Stories
Japanese bridge

Koga

Helping shape Bowen Island’s early resort.

Circa 1910 photo of four loggers cutting a massive tree trunk lying horizontally on the forest floor. Two men operate a large crosscut saw from opposite sides, while a third stands behind the trunk holding a peavey or cant hook. A fourth man stands to the left, observing with an axe in hand. All wear work clothes, including overalls, caps, and boots. The forested site is scattered with woody debris. Text on the image reads 'Cutting wood Bowen Island' and 'Freshwater Photo.'

Kagetsu

Logging at Seymour Bay and a fight for justice.

Yamada family

Yamada

A family's life at King Edward Bay and beyond.

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Jerry Ito

A company town and a close-knit Japanese Canadian community.

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Research & References

Explore photographs, documents and objects from the past.

Province of BC logo
Province of BC logo
Province of BC logo