Edmonds College archaeological dig helps piece together Japanese history in Mukilteo

Edmonds College faculty Ashley Pickard and Alicia Valentino are spearheading archaeological digs in Mukilteo's Japanese Gulch, where a Japanese immigrant community thrived in the early 1900s. After economic hardships in Japan prompted emigration, many settlers found work in local industries, forming a significant part of the town's population. The latest dig involved 20 students and focused on determining the exact locations of former residences. Previous excavations yielded artifacts such as glass bottles and ceramic dishware, which illuminate the daily lives of these residents. The community dwindled during the Great Depression, leaving no visible evidence of its existence today.

Findings from the current dig will be analyzed in a lab methods class at Edmonds College, enhancing students' appreciation for historical research. Results will be shared at a public exhibition in 2026, fostering community engagement with local history. The project underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage and understanding the contributions of immigrant communities.