In San Jose, one of the oldest and last remaining Japanese-owned farms in California will be demolished to make way for urban housing, despite efforts by preservationists and community leaders to save it. The Sakauye farm, with a century-old farmhouse that represents the contributions Japanese Americans made to the state’s agricultural history, will be replaced by a mixed-use development of nearly 1,500 apartment units and townhouses. The farm, built in 1907 by Japanese immigrants, is a symbol of San Jose’s agricultural past before it was transformed by tech and suburban growth.
The late owner of the farm, Eichii Sakauye, lived in the farmhouse his entire life, which was built in 1920 and embodies Japanese American farming history and the discrimination they faced. The government confiscated thousands of Japanese American farms during World War II, causing a significant decline in their numbers. Efforts are underway to save and move the farmhouse to History Park at a cost of $500,000, with the developer contributing $100,000.
Preservationists and city officials are working to find a balance between preserving historical sites like the farmhouse and addressing the urgent need for housing in expensive cities like San Jose. Preserving the historic buildings would eliminate housing units and affordable housing opportunities, while moving the farmhouse could pose maintenance challenges for the city. Discussions are ongoing to determine the best course of action, with a decision expected by the end of the month.
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