Manzanar National Historic Site near Independence in Inyo County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Block 14
Manzanar
This is one of 36 blocks at Manzanar where Japanese Americans lived. Each block had 14 barracks buildings divided into "apartments." Barracks 1 and 8 (reconstructed) feature exhibits on the challenges and changes people faced here. Barracks 1 (to your left) tells stories of early days in the camp. This building also includes a Block Manager's Office. Barracks 8 (to your right) features "improved" rooms as well as an in-depth exploration of the "Loyalty Questionnaire" and its impacts. The "Dust to Diplomas" exhibit in the north end of Barracks 8 highlights the development and evolution of schools in Manzanar.
The concrete foundations in the center of the block were the men's latrine, laundry room, and ironing room. Step into the women's latrine (reconstructed) and imagine enduring your own private moments in public spaces. The ironing room slab has imprints of small footsteps. The ledge of rocks and concrete are remnants of a wading pool. Please do not step on the fragile concrete.
The red truck is parked next to a restored World War II-era mess hall, which today houses exhibits on the logistics and politics of food in Manzanar.
Imagine what daily life was like for someone like you.
Please see the barracks exhibits in chronological order, then see the women's latrine and mess hall.
Erected by National Park Service.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Asian Americans • War, World II.
Location. 36° 43.685′ N, 118° 8.966′ W. Marker is near Independence, California, in Inyo County. It is in Manzanar National Historic Site. It can be reached from Manzanar Reward Road west of U.S. 395. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 5001 US-395, Independence CA 93526, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in California’s Sierra Nevada. It is also in the American Mountain West. Globally, it is in North America, on the Ring of Fire, in the Pacific Rim, in the Western Hemisphere, in the Western World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain and also Mexicos Alta California.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Crowded Quarters (within shouting distance of this marker); "That's What You Call Survival" (within shouting distance of this marker); Enduring Humiliation (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); "Zeal for Cleanliness" (about 400 feet away); Community Activities (about 400 feet away); Pressing Needs (about 400 feet away); "Waiting in a Breadline" (about 400 feet away); Made in Manzanar (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Independence.
Credits. This page was last revised on July 5, 2026. It was originally submitted on July 4, 2026, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. This page has been viewed 9 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 4, 2026, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. 3. submitted on March 15, 2024, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California.


