Exploring the Historic Relationship Between the Lords and Their People in Machida City

Exhibition Overview

The city of Machida in Tokyo is set to host a fascinating exhibition titled "Machida and the Lords: Relationships Between Lords and Their People in the Edo Period.” This event runs from October 4 to November 9 for the first part and November 15 to December 21 for the second part, allowing visitors to explore the historical dynamics spanning over 260 years.

Understanding the Concept of 'O-Dono'

Typically, when one thinks of the term “O-Dono”, images of powerful daimyos ruling over vast territories come to mind. However, the exhibition aims to shed light on the lesser-known lords—those who were vassals to the shogunate, whose domains were less than 10,000 koku (a unit of rice measurement). These feudal lords, known as hatamoto, still held significant authority in their territories, where the local people considered them their “O-Dono.”

In the Machida region alone, there were 37 such notable lords throughout the Edo period, guiding and managing the lives of their subjects. The relationship they had with the populace was vital, as these lords provided governance and support within their territories. This intricate bond between the hatamoto and the villagers is highlighted through rare historical materials and documents preserved in the city.

What to Expect at the Exhibition

Visitors can expect to find a wealth of historical artifacts on display, including items like signboards (kōsatsu) and document boxes (bunbako), which reflect the daily life and governance of that era. One remarkable exhibit features the equipment used by the Onoji Farming Corps, showcasing the agricultural practices and community efforts of the time.

The exhibition aims to provide insights not just into the historical narrative but also the social dynamics at play between the lords and the common people who contributed significantly to the economy and culture of the period.

Related Events and Activities

In conjunction with the exhibition, several related events will be conducted, including:

- Lectures: Two lecture sessions will delve deeper into specific topics related to the exhibition.
- Fieldworks: Two guided activities designed for attendees to explore historical sites related to this theme.
- Curator-Designed Tours: Six occasions will feature the curator explaining various aspects of the exhibition.
- Family Fun Activity: A chance for families to research their home crests and create personalized badge pins in four workshops.
- Literature Corner: A special section in the Central Library featuring books related to the exhibition.

Details about the events and access information can be found on flyers and the official Machida City website.

About Machida City

Machida, home to around 430,000 residents, lies in the southern part of Tokyo and is conveniently located just 30 minutes by train from central Tokyo. The city is known for its vibrant commercial areas surrounding Machida Station and its traditional shopping streets. When venturing away from the urban center, visitors are welcomed by serene landscapes, lush parks, and farmland producing local vegetables, allowing for a unique blend of city life and nature’s beauty.

For more information about this enchanting city, visit the official Machida City website and check out their social media platforms for updates and insights on local events.

Machida City Official Resources:

Join us in celebrating the rich history and community spirit of Machida!