Enlightened Encounters: The Two Nations of Manjiro Nakahama

Enlightened Encounters: The Two Nations of Manjiro Nakahama explores the remarkable life and influence of Manjiro Nakahama (1827-1898), the first Japanese person to live in and learn English in the U.S. after his rescue at sea in 1841 by the John Howland, a New Bedford whaleship. 

The exhibition is timed to celebrate the 2017 centennial of the America-Japan Society, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the relationship between America and Japan. It is also the 190th anniversary of Manjiro’s birth and the 30th anniversary of the Sister City agreement between Fairhaven/ New Bedford, and Manjiro’s home town of Tosashimizu.

Companion Exhibition – The East Unlocks its Gates: American Whalers and Trade in Asia

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website.