Japanese Influence on 25th Street

Japanese Influence on 25th Street. . The Japanese were first introduced to Utah and the Ogden area February 4, 1872 when the "Iwakura Delegation", a group of dignitaries, were temporarily snowed in having arrived in Ogden by train from San Francisco, their journey to the east and Washington D.C.was delayed for 19 days until the weather improved. Their stay in Utah undoubtedly left a positive impression which likely paved the way for future Japanese immigrants who began settling in Utah ten years later. , , As a major railway junction, Ogden was a natural draw for railroad section gangs at the turn of the century. This was initially the main source of employment for the Japanese. However, as the Japanese population increased and families settled in the area, their interests and talents were applied in many other areas. By the early 1900's, many Japanese laborers turned to farming to earn a living, and were to produce the nationally acclaimed Sweetheart and Jumbo celery, and the 20th Century strawberries (an ever-bearing strawberry by Taijiro Kasuga). Others found business opportunities serving the Japanese community, railroad workers, and other citizens and visitors to the 25th Street area. , , In 1913 Japanese residents organized the Ogden Buddhist Temple with early meetings held at 236 24th Street, at 2430 Lincoln Avenue, and at 225 Capitol Strect until 1937, when a Buddhist temple building at 2456 Lincoln was used. , , Due to the close proximity of services, housing employment, business opportunities, and gathering areas for social and religious activities for the local Japanese population, 25th Street and the nearby area soon came to be known as "J" Town. This was an area bounded by Kiesel Avenue on the east, Wall Avenue on the west, 24th Street on the north, and 25th Street on the south. Along 25th Street alone, more than 40 businesses were owned and/or operated by Japanese American businessmen including Kay's Noodle Parlor, Utah Noodle, Dave's Barber Shop, American Eagle Café, and Star Noodle. , , The Japanese influence that first began on or near 25th Street has played an important role in Ogden's development. , , Chigo Parades , Chigo are children who participate in Buddhist processions. They are dressed to represent heavenly beings. Boys wear a stiff hat of lacquered gauze called the Eboshi, while girls wear a crown with a Phoenix Bird and bright metal pendants called Tenkan. , , (photo caption) Dr. Moshtaka moved to Odgen in 1924. His office was located at 25th and Grant for many years, until he was forced to relocate (to 2123 Grant) to make way for the Federal Building in 1962. , , (photo caption) Historically significant Star Noodle sign. , , (photo caption) Tamaki and Co. 2456/2458 Wall Avenue.