Manzanar National Historic Site Grant: Preserving and Interpreting Layers of History

The National Park Service (NPS), in collaboration with Great Basin Institute (GBI) Research Assistant(s) will engage Tribal, local, Japanese American, and other communities to expand interpretation of the layers of history at Manzanar National Historic Site (MNHS). The most important outcomes are intangibleâ¿¿trust, appreciation, and engagementâ¿¿as the NPS collaborates to preserve and interpret Manzanarâ¿¿s layers of history.

The Siteâ¿¿s goal is to build relationships, not just facilitate interactions. This project will strengthen ties to the next generation of the Siteâ¿¿s neighbors and stewards. It will build capacity, strengthen commitments, and deepen engagement with Tribal and local communities.

B.Project Objectives â¿¿

Reach out to 50 local stakeholders including members of the Fort Independence Indian Community of Paiute Indians, the Paiute-Shoshone Indians of the Lone Pine Community, Big Pine Paiute Tribe of the Owens Valley, and the Bishop Paiute Tribe as well as other local residents in Independence, Lone Pine, Big Pine and Bishop;

Create a comprehensive list of local oral history questions;

Develop a 16-page local oral history workbook for Tribal Elders;

Work closely with a minimum of 10 individuals and/or families to preserve their personal stories through oral history;

Scan loaned or donated archives and photographs; and

Develop publications, interpretive media and/or exhibits as determined appropriate by stakeholders and the NPS.