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Topaz Camp - Japanese
Relocation Camp
By
Utah Outdoor Activities
Located west of Delta, Utah is the remains
of the Topaz Internment Camp. Between 1942 to 1946 the Topaz
camp was home to about 10,000 Japanese who were sent there by the
U.S. Government shortly after the attack of Pearl Harbor. War
time hysteria caused the relocation of 120,000 Japanese Americans to
be relocated to one of ten inland camps. An inscription on the
monument commemorating the Topaz Camp states "without hearings or
trials, this act of injustice is based solely on the color of their
skin and the country of their origin". Continuing, the plague states
"America's fear and distrust of these citizens precipitated by
Japan's attack on Peal harbor is placated".
The Topaz Camp was spread out over 20,000
acres with armed watch towers constructed every quarter mile around
the perimeter. The facility included barracks, community
dining halls, laundry rooms and latrines. There were schools,
a hospital, a post office, stores, industry and some limited
recreational opportunities provided for them. During the war
many young Japanese volunteered to fight from these internment
camps. The 442nd RCT and 100th Battalion made up of entirely
young Japanese Americans suffered major war casualties and go on to
become the U.S. Army's most highly-decorated combat unit in it's
history.
Today the only remains of the Topaz Camp
are isolated concrete pads spread out over the desert and hidden
amongst the sage brush. As you explore the area small signs mark
some of the concrete pads such as the Fire Station, and the
Hospital. This area is considered an Historic site so please
don't remove any artifacts you may find and please obey the signs.
Driving Directions:
From Delta travel west to 1000 W and turn right. When you
reach 4500 North turn left. Continue to travel west on 4500 North to
the Camp location.
Nearby Hotel Accommodations
Best Western Motor Inn Delta Utah
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