Discover the rich history of Seattle’s Panama Hotel, a historic landmark with deep roots in Japanese American culture. This captivating hotel, built in the early 1900s, holds significant significance as it served as a storage place for belongings of families forced to leave their homes during World War 2, heading to internment camps. Many families never returned to reclaim their items, and the Panama Hotel now showcases these belongings, preserving the history and stories of the Japanese American community. Jan Johnson, the dedicated owner and operator, has kept this history alive, making it a must-visit destination in the vibrant Chinatown International District of Seattle.
Join Michelle and Lori as they explore the Chinatown International District, walking through the Danny Woo Community Garden and Nihon Machi Alley, before finally reaching the remarkable Panama Hotel. Jan Johnson, the owner, provides a personal tour, sharing captivating stories and insights about the hotel’s past. From original 1910 wallpaper to the powerful bathhouse, every corner of this remarkable hotel exudes the magic of living history. The Panama Hotel continues to serve as a testament to the strength and resilience of the Japanese American community, and visiting this historic landmark is an opportunity to honor and learn from their experiences.
History of the Panama Hotel
The Panama Hotel, located in Seattle’s Chinatown International District, has a rich history that spans over a century. Constructed in the early 1900s, the hotel stands as a testament to the cultural heritage of the Japanese American community in the area. It was originally built to cater to the needs of Japanese immigrants who had migrated to the United States in search of better opportunities.
During its early years, the hotel was owned and managed by Jan Johnson, a dedicated individual who recognized the importance of preserving history. Jan Johnson played a pivotal role in ensuring the preservation of the hotel and its artifacts, which would later serve as reminders of the struggles faced by the Japanese American community during World War II.
World War II marked a significant period in the history of the Panama Hotel. As Japanese Americans were forcibly relocated to internment camps, many families turned to the hotel as a place to store their belongings. Due to the rushed nature of their removal, numerous families were unable to return to collect their items. As a result, the Panama Hotel became a repository of personal belongings, reflecting the stories and memories of those who were affected by the internment camps.
The hotel’s history became the inspiration for the critically acclaimed book, “Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet” by Jamie Ford. The novel explores the lives of two young friends, Henry Lee and Keiko Okabe, whose lives are thrown into turmoil due to the internment camps. The Panama Hotel serves as a central location in the story, highlighting the significance of the hotel in the community’s collective memory.
Despite the passing of time, the Panama Hotel has managed to preserve a range of historic artifacts. Exploring the hotel allows visitors to step back in time and experience the past. Guided tours, led by Jan Johnson herself, provide an in-depth look into the hotel’s history and the struggles faced by the Japanese American community.
One of the highlights of a tour is a visit to the bath house located within the hotel. The bath house is a symbol of the community’s resilience and the perseverance of its members. It served as a place for communal gathering and a source of comfort during difficult times. Here, visitors can witness firsthand the historic significance of the bath house and imagine the conversations and shared experiences that once took place within its walls.
Inside the hotel, visitors can view preserved original items, such as the wallpaper from 1910 and a refrigerator dating back to the same era. These artifacts offer a glimpse into the daily lives of the individuals who lived and worked at the hotel, ensuring that their stories and experiences are not forgotten.
Personal stories and memories
As visitors explore the Panama Hotel, they are exposed to a collection of personal stories and memories shared by members of the community. These stories provide a deeper understanding of the impact of the internment camps and the struggles faced by Japanese Americans during World War II. Hearing these accounts firsthand helps to humanize the historical events and create a connection between the past and the present.
Visitors also have the opportunity to share their own experiences and reactions to the hotel. Many find themselves moved by the powerful history that permeates the building, and some even discover their own familial connections to the events that unfolded during the war. These connections serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving and learning from history.
The Panama Hotel’s connection to the International District further enhances its significance. As visitors explore the hotel, they can gain a deeper understanding of the district’s unique cultural heritage. The hotel serves as a physical embodiment of the community’s resilience and its ongoing efforts to maintain its identity amidst urban development.
Supporting the Panama Hotel
Staying at the Panama Hotel is one way to show support for the preservation efforts carried out by Jan Johnson and her team. By choosing to stay in this historic establishment, visitors are not only immersing themselves in the history of the hotel but also contributing to its continued preservation. The revenue generated from hotel stays helps fund the maintenance and restoration of the building, ensuring that future generations can also experience its rich history.
In addition to staying at the hotel, visitors can also support Jan Johnson’s preservation efforts by spreading awareness about the Panama Hotel and its historical significance. Sharing stories and personal experiences on social media platforms, recommending the hotel to friends and family, or even organizing group visits are all ways to support the cause.
The Panama Hotel’s role in popular culture
The Panama Hotel’s history has had a significant impact on popular culture. Jamie Ford’s novel, “Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet,” was heavily influenced by the hotel’s story and its connection to the Japanese American community during World War II. The book’s success led to its adaptation into a movie and a musical, further cementing the hotel’s place in popular culture.
The adaptation of the novel into a movie and musical has allowed a wider audience to learn about the Panama Hotel and its role in shaping the lives of Japanese Americans during a tumultuous period in history. By reaching different mediums, the stories of the hotel and its inhabitants continue to inspire and educate people around the world.
Conclusion
The Panama Hotel stands as a testament to the resilience and strength of the Japanese American community in the face of adversity. Its rich history serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by Japanese Americans during World War II and the importance of preserving and learning from these experiences. Through guided tours, visitors can explore the hotel, hear personal stories, and gain a deeper understanding of the history that unfolded within its walls. By supporting the hotel and its preservation efforts, individuals can play a role in ensuring that this important piece of history continues to be shared and remembered.