News Release
First-generation Japanese families faced many obstacles during the early 20th century following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Despite social and governmental challenges, the Japanese of Lincoln County contributed to the successful development of North Platte and Lincoln County. Many went on to be successful entrepreneurs and business people.
“It is an untold part of our history. So many families of Japanese descent lived in Lincoln County and contributed to the agricultural development and business interests of North Platte,” said Jim Griffin Lincoln County Historical Museum Curator.
Growing up with very little, President and Founder of NebraskaLand Bank appreciates the history of those who followed their dreams and worked for their success. This inspired the $5,000 donation that NebraskaLand Bank made to the development of the Japanese of Lincoln County Exhibit Wednesday October 6, 2021.
Jacobson is very impressed with the Lincoln County Historical Museum’s work to preserve the history in the Lincoln County Area and believes that Jim Griffin will do an amazing job of bringing this exhibit to life. “His passion for preserving the history in this region is outstanding,” said Jacobson.
Roy Yanagida, a “Nisei” or second generation, who grew up in Lincoln County sparked the idea for the structural changes to the Lincoln County Historical Museum with a generous donation and agreed to match additional funds up to $25,000. The museum’s goal to build the exhibit was $75,000. Thanks to donations that flooded in from the original families of the first generation Japanese, and from the North Platte Community, the Lincoln County Historical Museum has met its goal.
The Lincoln County Historical Museum is always looking for ways to update and add exhibits to preserve and promote the history of the Lincoln County Area. Donations can be mailed to the Lincoln County Historical Museum, 2403 N. Buffalo Bill Ave., North Platte, NE 69101.