Browsing all posts in Isshin-ryu History.

A Bio of Master Tatsuo Shimabuku

Tatsuo Shimabukuro, originally named Shinkichi, was born on September 19, 1908, in Kyan Village, Okinawa. He later changed his name to Tatsuo, meaning “Dragon Man.” At the age of 12, he began training with his uncle, Kamasu Chan, in Shuri-Te. He initially began Karate training in the hopes that he would be able to fend [...]

Hanshi William H. Duessel

Master William H. Duessel, 9th Degree Black Belt, has been training in the martial arts for more than 40 years. In 1964 his training in Isshin-ryu Karate was heightened when he trained daily for three months with O’Sensei Tatsuo Shimabuku, when he visited Pittsburgh, PA. His understanding and knowledge of the art is second to [...]