Lucille Wang, Executive Director of the Chinese American Museum visited the Monterey Park Historical Society on April 26th. She discussed the history of their museum with the audience.

Ms. Wang said it took 20 years of community dedication and activism to opened its doors to the public on December 18th, 2003.  They are located at 425 North Los Angeles Street in Los Angeles in the famous the Garnier Building.

Built in 1890 by Philippe Garnier—a French settler and prominent businessman—the Garnier Building is the oldest and most important single structure linking the Chinese community to Los Angeles’ original Chinatown. It is also the oldest and most significant Chinese building in a major metropolitan area of the state, as the earthquake of 1906 destroyed the original buildings in San Francisco’s Chinatown.

Ms. Wong also provided the guests with their future focus and how their organization continues to achieve it goals and mission.

Michael Truong, Director of Operations and Programs, said the museum educates the public with their exhibits on Chinese history.

Mr. Truong gave the audience a history lesson why the Chinese people immigrated to the United States. They were fleeing war and a poor economy. They arrived willing to work to improve their lives and the lives of their families in China.

The Chinese community faced adversity over the years but managed to thrive in their new homeland.

Monterey Park celebrates the diversity of all of their residents.

Mayor Hans Liang, Mayor Pro Tem Peter Chan and Curator Marlene Buenrostro joined Lucille Wang at the event.

The Chinese American Museum, opened to the public, is located at 425 North Los Angeles Street in Los Angeles. Their phone numbers are 213-473-5306 or 213-485-8567. Their E-mail: educator@camla.org or www.camla.org.

The Historical Society of Monterey Park’s Museum is located at 781 S. Orange Avenue in Garvey Ranch Park. For tours and museum hours please call 626-307-1267.