Four members of JIA (the Japan Institute of Architects) came for on-the-spot visit.

An on-the-spot visit of JIA (the Japan Institute of Architects) was held in July 2005. The members of JIA were Mr. Takayoshi Suge, JIA Kanagawa, and Mr. Koichiro Kanematsu, Mr. Yukimitsu Fujimoto, Mr. Seizo Matsushima, Preservation Issues Committee of JIA. We walked around the residence taking photos from different angles from fences crossing over. They said they would like to know how the inside of the residence was and they would send a formal request on preservation of the residence to Yokohama City Office and Shinsho Corporation of the owner. Their support would be a great impact and encouraging our group. (July 2005)


The cemetery construction plan was cancelled

We are happy to report the cancellation of the cemetery construction plan to the land in Honmoku-Motomachi. First, we got the information from a reporter of The Yomiuri Shimbun on September 21, 2005. Then, we confirmed with Health and Medical Bureau of Yokohama City that Zengyo Temple and Yoko Corporation (an agent) turned down the plan. We also confirmed with Shinsho Corporation that they decided the cancellation officially and would look for other parties. Our efforts have brought us a good result earlier than expected. (September 21, 2005)


The first lecture

The first lecture was held on September 24, 2005 at Honmoku District Center, which was attended by 60 people not only from Honmoku area but also other areas. The guest speakers were Ms Masako Shimada, CEO of Yokohama City Guide Association, and Mr. Hiroshi Misawa, Misawa architect and planner.

First, Ms Masako Shimada talked about Antonin Raymond and Honmoku; a history of Honmoku and a value of residences in Honmoku that has been well known as a popular place from Edo period and also as a resort place from Meiji period.

Second, Mr. Hiroshi Misawa talked about Effects of Antonin Raymond; Antonin's work in Yokohama, a story behind Socony Residences, Honmoku, and the value of the residence in view of architecture.

Last, questionnaires were collected from many people to speak for preservation of the residence. (September 24, 2005)


A visit to Morgan's Residence in Fujisawa City

We organized a visit to Morgan's Residence in Daigiri, Fujisawa City on Sunday, October 16, 2005. Eight members of our group were in action and had a close contact with a Group to Keep Morgan’s Residence.

The Morgan's residence was built in 1931 with a Spanish-style by architect J. H. Morgan who worked mainly in late Taisho period and first Showa period. The Group to Keep Morgan's Residence has started their activities from November 1999 to preserve the residence and utilize it by local residents.  The group achieved a result that the residence was acquired by Fujisawa City Land Development Corporation and Japan National Trust (JNT).