Tokyo Civilian Internment CampParaphrase of Incoming Cablegram from International Red Cross Committee. Sent 10.2.44 Rec'd 12.2.44 TOKIO CIVIL INTERNMENT CAMP #2.819International Red Cross delegates, accompanied by Prince Shimadzu, Vice-President of the Japanese Red Cross, visited this camp on January 26, 1944. It was opened in September 18, 1943. POSTAL ADDRESS - Sekiguchi Daimachi 19, Koishikawaku [present-day Bunkyo-ku], Tokyo. Strength consists of 59 women, of whom 15 (including one mother with two children, aged 7 and 9) are U.S. nationals. These persons were transferred from Camps Sendai, Miyoshi, and Sumire, which are now closed. Most of those in camp are Catholic nuns, the others are missionaries, teachers and social workers. Camp is located in a healthy region in a former boys seminary. Building is brick and wood. Total area - 14625 square meters, building area - 1993 square meters. Sufficient daylight, electricity, no heat. Ventilation and drainage satisfactory. Drinking water from Tokyo municipal water supply. Most of the internees brought their own bedding; those who did not have been supplied by the authorities. Each person has three or four blankets and one quilt. Sanitary arrangements are satisfactory with Japanese and modern flush toilets. Japanese bath permits baths every two weeks. Hot water is available at all times. Three meals daily. Breakfast prepare their own in their rooms over charcoal stoves. Lunch and dinner is prepared by Japanese professional cooks. Menus varied, consist of vegetables, meat, fish, sugar, jams, spices, tea and coffee. (See list attached.) Kitchen is well equipped with both gas and coal range. No infirmary in camp. Sick internees evacuated to nearby Seibo hospital. Japanese doctor from St. Luke's hospital visits camp monthly. Those wishing dental care may leave camp for that purpose. Internees brought own wearing apparel and were given some by evacuees of last exchange ship. Sufficient for winter and coming summer, but need sleeping garments, underwear, stockings, and shoes. Adequate laundry facilities, but it is said that present rations of laundry and toilet soap is insufficient. Internees having bank account may draw up to 30 yen per month. American woman with two children is the only recipient of financial assistance through the Protecting Power. |