Nakashima Heritage Barn

Snohomish County | Washington

What We Did
Protected a meaningful site that is now open for education, reflection, and remembrance.

Our Goal
Preserve important cultural and historic American stories.

Support Our Work in Washington

Nakashima Heritage Barn by the Numbers

acres purchased by TPL

miles of trail begin here

1st

and only state heritage barn belonging to an Asian American family

Preserving a Piece of American History

In a rural area off Route 9 in Snohomish County, Washington, there is a lovely trailhead and greenway waiting to be explored. But it’s more than just a place to hike and enjoy nature; it also holds a piece of American history: the legacy of Kamezo and Miye Nakashima.

The Nakashimas were among the earliest Japanese farmers in the area. Setting in the scenic Pacific Northwest, they operated a dairy farm until 1942, when, like many other Asian Americans, they were forcibly placed in an internment camp during World War II.

In 1997, Trust for Public Land helped purchase the farmland and its prominent red barn, which is on the state’s heritage barn register—the first and only belonging to an Asian American farming family. Situated at the head of the Snohomish County Centennial Trail, the site is now a park.

Today, as you walk or ride a bike along the path, you can stop and pay witness to the red barn that still stands, as well as a “history quilt” with photos of the farm and area throughout the years. More historical background is offered along the trail, providing opportunities for education, reflection, and remembrance—all in a beautiful setting.

About This Project

Get Directions
Memorial to Japanese Americans Imprisoned in WWII Plays a Part in Today’s Fight for Justice

During World War II, Japanese American residents of Bainbridge Island in Washington were forced from their homes due to an unconstitutional and racist Executive Order. Today, a memorial there stands as a testament to the close-knit community’s solidarity and as an inspiration for justice.

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Get in Touch with Our Washington Team

Seattle Office

1218 Third Avenue
Suite 1700
Seattle, WA, 98101
(206) 587-2447
northwest@tpl.org

Wenatchee Office

18 N. Wenatchee Avenue
Second Floor
Wenatchee, WA, 98801
(509) 888-0844
northwest@tpl.org

Mitsu Iwasaki

Associate Vice President and Northwest Director

mitsu.iwasaki@tpl.org