YAMAGUCHI Naoichi
Born: 2 June 1877 – Died: 11 August 1942
Particulars:
Naoichi was born in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. His parents were Yamaguchi Fujitaro and Oharu (née Yasuhara). He arrived in Walyalup / Fremantle, Western Australia, in 1898 aboard the Futani Maru. After a brief return to Japan in 1917, he came back to Australia aboard the Minderoo. Proficient in English, he worked as a ship’s chandler and interpreter for the Fremantle Providore Company for 11 years. Following the outbreak of the Pacific War, he arranged for the sergeant in charge of North Fremantle Police Station and Mrs Pink of 29 Bailey Street to oversee his property at 31 Bailey Street, including household furniture and personal belongings. He provided details of two bank accounts and surrendered cash holdings in both Australian dollars and Japanese yen to authorities. Naoichi was interned at Loveday Internment Camp in South Australia. He died of a coronary occlusion on 11 August 1942 at the age of 65. He now rests in the Japanese Cemetery in Cowra, New South Wales, Australia.
–Jo Anne Shiosaki
More info:
Ben Shiosaki
Artist/s Statement:
My connection to history is deeply personal. My father was interned in Camp 4, Tatura Internment Camp, and I grew up hearing firsthand accounts of internment and resilience from my family. With a passion for history and photography, I believe these stories and legacies should not be forgotten. I was honoured to research Naoichi Yamaguchi. Despite the many hardships and challenges experienced by migrants in the 1900s, Naoichi appears to have led a remarkably successful life in Australia.
Artist Bio:
Ben Shiosaki is a fourth-generation Nikkei who resides in Geraldton, Western Australia. With a passion for history and photography, he believes these stories and legacies in the When You Call My Name Project should not be forgotten.