BEYOND THE GOLD MOUNTAIN: CHINESE IMMIGRANTS IN THE BAY AREA
The struggle, adaptation, and lasting contributions of Chinese immigrants to the Bay Area from 1848 to present day.
Following the discovery of gold in the American River in 1848, countless immigrants from around the globe flocked to San Francisco and settled in the Bay Area in pursuit of a better life. Among these groups were Chinese immigrants, who, fleeing difficult conditions in their homeland, arrived seeking jobs and a place to call home. Despite facing numerous laws aimed at suppressing Chinese immigrations and enduring widespread animosity, these individuals have become an integral part of the Bay Area’s history, particularly in San Francisco and Marin. This story map seeks to explore the significant historical sites that highlight the struggles, adaptations, and enduring contributions of Chinese immigrants to the Bay Area from 1848 to the present.
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, located on Upper Grant Avenue, San Francisco, CA Banner celebrating the National Day of the Republic of China Wo Yick Co. building on Grant Avenue, Chinatown, San Francisco Interior of the China Camp Museum Wooden houses in China Camp Fishing boats used by Chinese immigrants Fan Mill at China Camp Barracks that housed soldiers on Angel Island Inside the museum at Angel Island Air Force military uniforms
Bibliography
Yung, Judy. America’s Other Immigrant Isle. American History 51, no. 5 (December 1, 2016): 56–62. https://research.ebsco.com/linkprocessor/plink?id=252c7b2e-71b8-318a-8ae3-e97d254cedb0. This article explores the history of Angel Island and the discrimination that Chinese Immigrants went through during their time at Angel Island.
Choy, Philip P. San Francisco Chinatown: A guide to its history and architecture. City Lights Publishers, 2012. This book explores the history of Chinese immigrants in San Francisco, detailing their settlement on Sacramento Street and how, over time, the Chinatown we know today became a notable tourist destination with its distinctive Oriental architecture.
Rodriguez, Adrian. San Rafael’s China Camp, Iconic Migrant Enclave, Marks 150 Years. Marin Independent Journal, July 23, 2018. https://www.marinij.com/2018/07/15/san-rafaels-china-camp-iconic-migrant-enclave-marks-150-years/#:~:text=The%20storied%20camp%20was%20one%20of%20a%20dozen,operated%20a%20dairy%20ranch%20and%20brick%20manufacturing%20plant. This article examines the history of China Camp, its creation, and how Chinese immigrants built new lives while escaping discrimination faced in San Francisco.