The Him Mark Lai Digital Archive Project is an ongoing project dedicated to the lifelong work of the man known as the “Master Archivist” who gave legitimacy to Chinese American history. Visit the site at himmarklai.org > Him Mark Lai digital images >
CHSA at the Google Cultural Institute
The Chinese Historical Society of America (CHSA) has added 51 high resolution art works to the Google Cultural Institute, allowing people all over the world to explore their collection of historic images online. To date, CHSA has contributed 51 photographs and archival material unique to Chinese American communities. These objects were selected to become part of the Google Cultural Institute for their significance in documenting how San Francisco Chinatown rose from the ashes of the 1906 Earthquake and Fire to become the most iconic Chinatown in the world. Today, SF Chinatown is major tourist attraction, visitor destination, residential neighborhood and […]
Work of Giants: The Chinese & the Building of the First Transcontinental Railroad
A transcontinental railroad was the dream of President Lincoln to unite the country. Chinese workers played a critical role in the completion of what General Sherman called “the work of giants.” 12,000 Chinese workers labored on this tremendous task and yet were not recognized or included in the celebration, when the Central Pacific and Union Pacific rails were joined today on May 10. 144 years later, we work for the lasting recognition and official acknowledgment of the contribution of these Chinese workers.Look out for the launch of CHSA’s Work of Giants project on this page, exploring the story and […]
Earthquake: The Chinatown Story
Chinatown was a bustling neighborhood with many businesses, temples, and associations. When the 1906 Earthquake hit the city, it destroyed large parts of the city. Fires caused by the troops completely decimated Chinatown, leaving the neighborhood in ashes and its citizens fleeing to neighbor districts and cities. CHSA’s traveling exhibit “Earthquake: The Chinatown Story” details firsthand accounts from the people who lived there, how the city had been planning to remove Chinatown, and how the Chinese fought back. The following are testimonials from the people who were there when the earthquake happened.
Julia Morgan Legacy Project
CHSA is proud to present the Julia Morgan Legacy Project, created as part of the 2012 Julia Morgan Festival. Our focus is on the legacy, architecture, and impact of the Julia Morgan designed Chinese YWCA building, which currently houses the CHSA Museum.
Sun Yat-sen: An American Legacy
To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the modern republic of China, CHSA presents the exhibition Sun Yat-sen: An American Legacy. The exhibition tells the story of the “father of modern China” Dr. Sun Yat-sen and his travels in America as he rallied support to the cause of a free and modern China. The exhibit was organized by Connie Young Yu from her family’s collection of Sun Yat-sen memorabilia. Special programs include History Alive! Performances “Sun Yat-sen & The Three People’s Principles” by Artist-in-Residence Charlie Chin, and a brand-new documentary Dr. Sun at Liberty’s Door by Connie Young-Yu. On display now […]
History Pin
CHSA began a project of digitizing our photography collection and posting it online to History Pin, thanks to our faithful volunteer, Nancy Fong. History Pin is a global history project that allows you to compare historic photos to their modern day locations. While allowing you to explore the early days of Chinatown, this site also lets you see how the neighborhood changes and redevelops. Please check back often for new photos are regularly added.
Glamour & Grace: Miss Chinatown USA
For half a century, San Francisco has been captivated by the grace, glamour, and exuberance of the Miss Chinatown pageant. In the pageant tradition, contestants, family, and friends serve as ambassadors of Chinese American heritage and culture, drawing attention to San Francisco Chinatown and other home communities as they spread good will throughout the Bay Area and beyond. This special exhibit offers an affectionate and fun-filled look at the glitz, substance, and significance of this favorite community tradition. View the online exhibit here: www.civilrightssuite.org/MissChinatown Photos:
