Nikkei in Nevada

The first Japanese Americans arrived in Nevada in the early 1900s, with just under 300 Japanese males living in the state by 1900. Most of these early immigrants worked as cooks, farmers, miners, and laundrymen, with a significant number coming to Nevada around 1905 to work on the expanding railroad infrastructure. The Issei (first-generation Japanese immigrants) helped fill the labor gap left by the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, working alongside other immigrant groups such as Greeks, Italians, and Mexicans. Despite facing anti-Asian sentiment, Japanese workers integrated relatively peacefully into the labor force in places like Las Vegas, where they took on skilled roles. By 1912, many Issei had settled permanently in Nevada, leasing land for farming, investing in small businesses—particularly laundries—and taking on jobs as skilled workers or crew bosses in the railroad and mining industries.

The arrival of Issei women in the 1910s marked a turning point for Japanese American families in Nevada. Between 1915 and 1920, many women arrived as “picture brides” for the men who had already settled in the state (paired in their native county by matchmakers using only photos and family recommendations). These women helped stabilize the community, contributing vital labor to family businesses, farming, and laundry operations. As families grew, these women took on critical roles in supporting their husbands’ enterprises and raising children. Life in Nevada was challenging due to a lack of ethnic associations, but the Japanese American families adapted and contributed to the local economy. Issei women, many of whom were strong, independent, and resilient, defied stereotypes and helped to shape the community's development.

During World War II, Japanese Americans in Nevada faced unique challenges. While many on the West Coast were sent to internment camps, Nevada’s Nikkei population, though under suspicion, largely avoided internment due to being located outside the federal exclusion zones. However, they still endured curfews and travel restrictions, which disrupted daily life and hurt businesses. Despite these hardships, Japanese American women played a crucial role in maintaining community cohesion and supporting the war effort. They worked in agriculture, laundries, and other essential services, often taking on additional responsibilities as their husbands aged or were away. Families like the Tomiyasu and Nakashima were particularly notable for their perseverance, and women like Kame Toyota of McGill fought tirelessly against the unjust internment of their loved ones.

In the post-war years, Japanese American women continued to be instrumental in building a stronger community. The 1950s and 1960s saw the passage of immigration reforms, such as the 1952 and 1965 Immigration Acts, which brought new waves of Japanese immigrants to Nevada. By 2020, the Japanese American population in the state had grown to over 28,000.

On exhibit at Clark County Library from April 3, 2025 through July 1, 2025

Monday: 10:00AM – 8:00PM
Tuesday: 10:00AM – 8:00PM
Wednesday: 10:00AM – 8:00PM
Thursday: 10:00AM – 8:00PM
Friday: 10:00AM – 6:00PM
Saturday: 10:00AM – 6:00PM
Sunday: 10:00AM – 6:00PM