EXPLORE FURTHER

The Chinese immigrants arrived in Nevada County in the l800’s. Many were searching for gold as placer and hydraulic miners. They were skilled laborers who were paid very little. Chinese workers were hired for their blasting, grading, filling, road cutting, and railroad construction skills. They played an important part in building the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad and the Central Pacific Railroad.

The first Chinese businesses date back to 1853. The population grew rapidly in Nevada City and Grass Valley and peaked at 3,000 in l870. The Chinese people were a significant part of the total population of Nevada County between l860-1880.

The Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad was an important link to San Francisco and China for the people who lived in Nevada County . The Chinese people had their own communities with stores, churches and cemeteries within the towns. When the Chinese people died it was customary to send their ashes back to China for proper buriel .

Today
A part of the Firehouse Museum in Nevada City is dedicated to the Chinese. An authentic alter can be found as you enter the museum.. Efforts are being made to restore the Chinese Quarter of Nevada City. A historic plaque will be placed on Commercial Street. Our classroom will help design and develop the plaque in honor of the Chinese contribution to our community.