Merced Assembly Center

The bronze, dedicated on February 19, 1982, names hysteria, racism and economic exploitation a year before the federal commission reported race prejudice, war hysteria and a failure of political leadership behind the camps. The people held here came from Colusa and Yolo counties, the north coast and the valley's farm towns; Mike Honda, later a congressman, was a year old. After 133 days nearly all were sent to Amache in Colorado. A memorial of 2010 near the fairgrounds entrance lists in bronze every former inmate its builders could find.

What the plaque says

Merced Assembly Center This was one of 15 temporary detention camps established during World War II to incarcerate persons of Japanese ancestry, a majority of whom were American citizens, without specific charges or trial. From May to September 1942, 4669 residents of Northern California were detained until permanent relocation camps were built. May the injustices and humiliation suffered here as a result of hysteria, racism and economic exploitation never recur. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 934 Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the Japanese American Citizens League, Livingston-Merced Chapter, February 19, 1982.

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Snelling Courthouse — 16 mi
• Hornitos — 20 mi
• Canal Farm Inn — 25 mi
• Turlock Assembly Center — 25 mi