Strange Time Line Event

First Japanese Sailors Reach Washington - January 1834

The first documented Japanese ship reached the Pacific Coast accidentally in 1834. This group of sailors was on a routine cargo transport down the coast of Japan when their rudder was destroyed. Without being able to steer these 14 traders drifted across the Pacific Ocean for the next 14 months. Surviving on only fish and rice, three of these sailors survived the voyage. Unfortunately these three were only used in the attempts to trade with Japan after a short stay with the Hudson Bay Company.

Information From:

Otokichi Story

History Link

Photo from History Link