About Chinese Historical Society of America
Founded January 5, 1963 by Thomas W. Chinn, C.H. Kwock, Chingwah Lee, H.K. Wong, and Thomas W.S. Wu—the oldest organization in America dedicated to Chinese American history. When founded, fewer than 250,000 people of Chinese descent lived in the US, and CHSA was a lone voice challenging narratives that excluded Chinese immigrant contributions to building California.
The museum is housed in the landmark 1932 Julia Morgan-designed Chinatown YWCA building, nicknamed the "Lantern on the Hill." CHSA received the National Preservation Honor Award in 2004 for restoring and retrofitting this historic building.
Notable exhibits include the twelve Gum Shan paintings by Jake Lee, originally commissioned for Johnny Kan's restaurant in 1959, and intricate miniature dioramas by retired Hollywood prop master Frank Wong depicting 1940s Chinatown life—from laundries and kitchens to Chinese New Year celebrations.
Plan Your Visit
Chinese Historical Society of America is located at 965 Clay Street in San Francisco's Chinatown, housed in a historic YWCA building designed by Julia Morgan. The museum features rotating exhibitions and educational programs. For current hours and admission information, please visit their website or call (415) 391-1188.
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