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On November 3, 2002, the Japan Society of
Fairfield County marked its annual celebration of
Japan Culture Day in Greenwich, Connecticut. This
year’s event was held at Richards of Greenwich, a
well-known local department store. The owner, Jack
Mitchell, traces a personal connection to Japan
through his great grandfather
William Eric Church who had dealings with the country in
the late 19th century, and who was recognized by
the Meiji era government with an award for his
service. A picture of Mr. Mitchell’s
great-grandfather, clothed in traditional Japanese
garb, was displayed for the occasion.
The event began with a concert of traditional
music played on koto, shakuhachi and shamisen.
Next, Mr. Mitchell, Mr. Koshikawa, Director of the
Japan Information Center, and Nina Streitfeld,
President of the Japan Society warmly welcomed the
day’s participants and kicked off a fashion show
that featured many examples of Japanese kimono.
Later in the day, there was also a chance to take
part in a Japanese tea ceremony. The traditional
arts, such as mataro dolls, ikebana, and bonsai,
were also on-hand for all to enjoy.
There is a well-established Japanese community in
the Greenwich area, which even has its own
Japanese school, and this event  was an excellent
opportunity for Japanese residents, as well as all
others who share an interest in Japan, to join
together and learn more about Japanese culture.
The proceeds from the gathering will be used to
support the Japan Society of Fairfield County’s
many educational and cultural activities.
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