Three Brothers Move Overseas

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, several Tanaka and Nakamura family members moved from hidden Maruda to overseas.  One moved to Sao Paulo, Brazil, a second to Mexico / Philippines and a first cousin to Maui, Hawaii.  Soon after moving, no contact was maintained with the main families back in Yamaguchi Prefecture.  At present, contact is maintained only with families in Hawaii.

During this period of Japanese history, the Japanese government financially sponsored individuals in Yamaguchi and Hiroshima Prefectures to move overseas.  Many young men were adventurous and took advantage of new opportunities overseas.