City seeks qualified historians for Filipino, Japanese farm inventory

The city of Bainbridge Island is on the lookout for qualified historians to identify historical Filipino and Japanese farm properties on the island.

By Cecilia Garza • December 18, 2013 2:37 pm
Four men move wood at the Koura farm during construction of the farmhouse in 1938. From left to right is Harold Raber
Four men move wood at the Koura farm during construction of the farmhouse in 1938. From left to right is Harold Raber

The city of Bainbridge Island is on the lookout for qualified historians to identify historical Filipino and Japanese farm properties on the island.

Qualifications will be accepted until Friday, Dec. 27 for historians or architectural historians interested in completing an intensive inventory of historical Filipino and Japanese farm properties.

The purpose of the inventory is to determine the extent of surviving resources eligible for listing on the local Historic Register.

It will also supplement a mapping project already underway by the Bainbridge Island Historic Museum, which has identified approximately 40 properties. The inventory will result in an exhibit at the museum.

The Washington Department of Archaeological and Historic Preservation granted the city $6,000 to conduct the inventory with an additional $1,000 from the city.

The project will begin January 2014 and has been divided into three parts to be done by the potential historian: preparation of inventory forms, determination of eligibility on the local register and a summary report.

According to the city’s project schedule, from January to April 2014, the historian will conduct field work to identify potential properties. Then the historian will be required to complete inventory forms from February to May 2014. Lastly, from April to July 2014, an inventory report will be drafted and completed for submission to the state.

Each inventory form will be filed with the state and include the name of the family associated with the property, type of farming and a building inventory that includes dates constructed, architectural style and construction materials. Photographs of remaining buildings and landscape will also be included in the inventory.

Potential applicants for the project must demonstrate relevant historic inventory experience, familiarity with the Bainbridge Island community and an ability to complete the project within the schedule timeline. Applicants must also describe their proposed project team’s professional qualifications and relevant work experience.

Submissions should be sent to Heather Beckmann, associate planner for the city of Bainbridge Island no later than 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27. Digital or hardcopies can be addressed to 280 Madison Ave. or hbeckmann@bainbridgewa.gov.