The first Chinese immigrants to Oregon arrived in 1850 having traveled in large part from the Pearl River Delta in southeast China. From miners to merchants, those early immigrants helped shape Oregon. Deschutes Public Library hosts a variety of programs throughout the month of September that will explore Chinese immigration in Oregon—its history as well as its legacy. All programs listed are free and no registration is required unless marked by an asterisk (*).
The Land of the Gold Mountain
With the discovery of gold in California in 1848, and subsequent rich strikes throughout the region, the world rushed to the Far West. Among the hopeful newcomers were Chinese immigrants who, beyond the gold fields, played key roles in the development of the West’s transportation, agriculture and industry. Bob Boyd explores the lives of these proud and industrious westerners through images, artifacts and stories from their experience in the West.
Tuesday, September 6 • 6:00 p.m.
Downtown Bend Library
Friday, September 9 • 12:00 p.m.
Redmond Library
The Untold Story of Chinese American History in Oregon
Helen Ying takes a stroll down the historical lane of the Pendleton, Oregon, Chinese community, including the history of the underground city, where people retreated to escape discrimination. Rediscovered after being unnoticed for many years, the story includes legal and illegal businesses that operated for over 100 years. This program is sponsored by The Oregon Historical Society in conjunction with their “Chinese American: Exclusion / Inclusion” exhibit.
Thursday, September 15 • 1:00 p.m.
Sisters Library
Thursday, September 15 • 6:00 p.m.
East Bend Library
Chinese History in Jacksonville
Recent archaeological excavation in Jacksonville, Oregon, uncovered the remains of a Chinese home burned in the fall of 1888. The site represents the oldest urban overseas Chinese site in the Pacific Northwest, and the vast artifact assemblage recovered from the intact dwelling makes the collection significant on a national level. The artifacts recovered from the household provide new insight into food, medicine, recreation and religion in a 19th century Chinese household.
Saturday, September 17 • 2:00 p.m.
Downtown Bend Library
Chinese Brush Painting*
Learn brush techniques and work on several strokes—including Bamboo, Wild Orchid, Plum Blossom and Chrysanthemum—as an introduction to this style of painting. Michelle Oberg leads the class. Space is limited and registration is required; register online at the link below.
Tuesday, September 20 • 5–7:00 p.m.
Downtown Bend Library
Chop Suey: Chinese Cooks in Oregon
Chinese restaurants were common in Oregon towns and cities beginning in the late 19th century. Usually advertising both Chinese and American dishes, they catered to the basic needs of single working men as well as to diners who were attracted by the exotic and the foreign. Archivist, historian and author Richard Engeman explores the history of Chinese restaurants in Oregon. This program is sponsored by The Oregon Historical Society in conjunction with their “Chinese American: Exclusion / Inclusion” exhibit.
Wednesday, September 21 • 6:00 p.m.
Downtown Bend Library
Thursday, September 22 • 12:00 p.m.
Sunriver Library
For more information about these or other library programs, please visit the library website at www.deschuteslibrary.org. People with disabilities needing accommodations (alternative formats, seating or auxiliary aides) should contact Liz Goodrich at 541-312-1032.