Statement of Significance (as of designation - July 6, 1992):
Rohwer Relocation Camp was constructed in the late summer and early fall of 1942 as a result of Executive Order 9066 (February 16, 1942). Under this order, over 110,000 Japanese aliens and Japan-Americans were relocated from the three Pacific Coast States--California, Oregon, and Washington. In all, ten relocation camps were established in desolate sites, all chosen for their distance from the Pacific Coast. Over 10,000 evacuees passed through Rohwer during its existence, and over two thirds of these were American citizens. The monuments found within the camp's cemetery are perhaps the most poignant record of this time.

Condition:
The cemetery continues to be threatened because of the need for rehabilitation of the concrete grave markers and monuments, which are deteriorating at an alarming rate. A condition assessment of the concrete markers and monuments has been completed. Funding is now needed for the stabilization and treatment of these fragile historic resources. Ownership of the property is not clear because it was once part of a federal installation that was closed without clear transfer of title to another entity.

A bill was introduced in Congress in 2005 which would create a program within the NPS to support and work in partnerships with citizens, governmental and tribal organization, educational institutions, and private nonprofit organizations for the purpose of identifying, protecting and acquiring historic confinement sties where Japanese Americans were detained (Rowher included) to gain inspiration from these sites and to demonstrate the Nation’s commitment to equal justice. The bill also provides for grants to States, local and tribal governments, other public entities, educational institutions, and private nonprofit organizations to carry out the actions described in the Act. Funding of up to $38 million is authorized for the purposes of the Act. The bill passed the House but no date has been established for the Senate vote (as of August 2006).