The Miyazaki House Lillooet’s historic home had fallen into a state of disuse and disrepair over the years. Thanks to Mariko Kage, Jane Carrico, and many other interested citizens the Miyazaki House Society was officially formed in December of 2013.
Miyazaki House remains in the heart of Lillooet but sadly due to other priorities of the District of Lillooet defined by the financial shortfalls of the area’s struggling economy, it has fallen into a state of disrepair and disuse. In particular, Dr. Miyazaki’s daughter, Betty Inouye, is concerned that leaving it empty and unheated in the wintertime will greatly contribute to its decay.
Fortunately, a group of dedicated volunteers led by Lillooet resident Mariko Kage has been spurred to action out of the fear of losing this important heritage site.
Passionate Plea To Save the Miyazaki House
In June of 2012, Kage made a passionate plea to the town council to express the group’s concern about the deterioration of the house which, although its beautiful grounds are accessible year-round, is now only open to the public during the summer months.
Through conversations with longtime area residents, she concluded that, “Dr. Miyazaki was living proof that the tragedies and injustices of war and racial strife can be overcome with goodwill and fellowship and that ultimately all peoples can live in harmony and meaningful existence together.” Kage feels that this is “an important message not only for Canadians but for the whole planet.”
Miyazaki House Revitalization Project
August 24, 2012, Miyazaki House Revitalization Project was submitted to the District of Lillooet. The Miyazaki House Revitalization Committee intends to honour Dr. Masajiro Miyazaki’s generous gift of the historic Phair residence to the communities of Lillooet that he loved by promoting its restoration and transformation into the multicultural heart of Lillooet.
The committee received official recognition from the District of Lillooet in March of 2013 and are poised to fulfill their vision to honour Dr. Miyazaki’s generous gift of the historic Phair residence to the District of Lillooet by promoting its restoration and transformation into the town’s multicultural heart.
May 2013 – Plans are underway to create a new society to restore the Miyazaki Heritage House and give it a new role in Lillooet’s community life. Mariko Kage said a local group has received official approval from the District of Lillooet.
December 2013 – The Miyazaki House Society officially became a society registered with the BC government.
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