Just Around the Corner – A Visit To the Chinese American Museum

So this week I’ve been telling you all about the museums at the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument. First it was Avila Adobe. Then came the Old Plaza Firehouse Museum. And today I’ve got the yet another museum to share with you. Just around the corner from the Firehouse you’ll find the Chinese American Museum.

The Chinese American Museum is housed in the Garnier Building. This 1890 structure housed Chinese Merchants for decades and was an unofficial “city hall” for the Chinese community. It’s considered the oldest Chinese building in the state (source).

Today this building remains an important Chinese American structure as it now houses the museum. Inside you’ll find exhibits documenting the history of the Chinese in America. My favorite was the recreation of the Chinese general store.

This recreation is patterned after the Sun Wing Wo General Store and Herb Shop which actually was housed in the building from 1891-1948. Isn’t that so fascinating!

The museum also houses rotating exhibitions relating to Chinese America. At the time of my visit (de)Constructing Chinatown was on view.

This was my favorite piece – an imagined diorama of Chinatown made with everyday objects.

The Chinese American Museum is a fascinating glimpse into a culture that has played a signifcant part in the formation of Los Angeles. And with admission at $3 it’s a pretty good deal, too!

Chinese American Museum
425 N. Los Angeles Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
open Tues-Sun 10am-3pm
admission $3