During World War II, the Granada Relocation Center, also known as Amache, became a place of incarceration for more than 7500 Japanese Americans.
Located near the border between Colorado and Kansas, this site, characterized by its sparse, windswept plains, was more densely populated than New York City at its peak. Recently designated as the Amache National Historic Site, it is the newest national park in the USA, a transformation that marks a significant step in the recognition and preservation of a painful chapter in American history.
The center, abandoned since 1945, now consists of some reconstructed barracks, a water tower and a guard tower, vestiges of its past. According to Dr. Bonnie J. Clark, from the University of Denver, who co-directs the Amache Project, the site may not look like much at first glance, but it is a powerful and evocative place, rich in history and memory.
Amache's designation as a national park was announced in February 2024 by Interior Secretary Deb Haaland. "As a nation, we must confront the mistakes of our past in order to build a more just and equitable future," said Haaland. The move is part of an effort to ensure that the history of Japanese Americans during World War II is remembered and honored.
The historical significance of the site dates back to the post-Pearl Harbor period, when anti-Japanese sentiment grew in the United States. In March 1942, President Franklin Roosevelt authorized the forced relocation of individuals considered threats to national security, which led to the internment of more than 120,000 Japanese Americans, most of whom were US citizens. Amache was one of several camps established throughout the western United States.
Life at Amache was difficult and marked by severe restrictions, but the internees managed to create a sense of community. They organized social activities, set up schools and even played sports. Despite the difficult conditions, they created a semblance of normal life within the confines of the camp.
Amache's story is not only one of incarceration, but also of resilience and community. John Hopper, a former Granada high school teacher, started a project in 1993 to document Amache's history. This project, supported by the Amache Preservation Society and several volunteers, led to the reconstruction of buildings and the creation of a museum and research center in Granada.
The museum houses historical photographs, documents and artifacts from Amache, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the site's history. Plans are underway to improve the visitor experience with more educational programs and tours of the reconstructed facilities.
The establishment of Amache as a national park serves not only as a preservation of history, but also as a reminder of the resilience of the Japanese American community. Visitors to the site can now engage with this history first-hand, ensuring that the stories of those who lived through these times are not forgotten.
