Nobumasa Ikeda

Nobumasa Ikeda (July 1, 1904 – January 9, 1988) was a Japanese politician, businessman, and member of the aristocracy who was active during the Showa era. He held the title of Marquis and served as a member of the House of Peers. He was the 15th head of the Ikeda family of Okayama Domain. His original first name was Masataka.

### Birth and Family Background

He was born in Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture, as the third son of Marquis Ikeda Sensada, the 13th head of the former Okayama Domain family. His mother was Ikeda Anjiko (the third daughter of Prince Nagini Kuni no Miya Asahiko, also known as Anjiko Jo). His siblings include the 14th head, Ikeda Yosamasa, and Ikeda Masatake, who was adopted into the former Kamo County Ikeda family (baron).

### Education

He graduated from Gakushuin High School.

### Inheritance of Family Title and Peerage

His older brother, Ikeda Yosamasa (the previous head), died young at age 26 due to the Spanish flu and was unmarried. Nobumasa succeeded to the family headship in 1920 (Taisho 9). On March 10 of that year, he inherited the peerage title of Marquis.

### Domestic and International Inspection Tours

In 1925 (Taisho 14), he inspected various European and American countries.

### Political Activities and Public Offices

On June 30, 1934 (Showa 9), upon reaching the age of 30, he was appointed as a Marquis member of the House of Peers. He subsequently participated in various roles, including serving as a committee member for the Ministry of Agriculture and Commerce, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, and the Ministry of Welfare. He also served as an administrative councilor for the Imperial Flying Association (now Japan Aeronautical Association).

### Private Residence and Related Facilities

In 1940 (Showa 15), part of his private estate—approximately 20,000 tsubo (around 66,000 square meters)—was transferred, enabling the construction of Tōgō Shrine in Jingu-mae, Shibuya Ward.

### Postwar Developments

Following the enforcement of the National Constitution of Japan in 1947 (Showa 22), he lost his aristocratic status. Afterwards, he served in leadership roles in various business and cultural organizations. He became the president of the Japan Corgi Club and served as a director of Kai-kan. In 1959 (Showa 34), he was involved in establishing the Japan chin breed club and was elected vice-president. In 1969 (Showa 44), upon the death of former imperial family member Prince Higashikuni Morihiro, he became president of the same organization.

### Interests and Hobbies

He was interested in breed preservation and animal welfare activities, participating in several clubs related to these pursuits.

### Spouse and Children

His wife was Ikeda Tomiko (the second daughter of Tsugaru Yukimasa). They had a son, the eldest, Ikeda Takemasa.

### Notes and References

He is documented extensively through various historical records and genealogical documents. Notable sources include "Jinji Kōshinroku Dai 14 Hanjo" (Personnel Directory, 14th Edition, Part 1), "Kizoku-in Yōran" (House of Peers Directory), materials from Kagami Kaikan, "Gikai Seido Hyakunen-shi" (History of the Parliamentary System), and the "Okayama Prefecture Historical Figures Encyclopedia."

He carried out his activities until the later Showa period, with his career and family background reflecting his noble heritage and public service.