The Chinese Canadian Museum (CCM) is diving into the past, bringing two new educational exhibitions to Victoria’s Chinatown and the doors are set to open this week.
Featuring window displays, curated photographs and artifact shadow boxes, First Steps: Chinese Canadian Journeys in Victoria and Gold Mountain Dream! launch February 18th and run through September.
The exhibits can be found at 10-14 Fan Tan Alley—the narrowest street in Canada—and will be open Friday to Sunday from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. with free admission. Still, people are encouraged to book their visits online.
Highlighting important starting points for Chinese Canadians, CCM says First Steps will share stories of community support, entrepreneurship and personal accomplishment.
Meanwhile, Gold Mountain Dream! examines the personal stories and sacrifices of early Chinese migrant workers who came to BC searching for prosperity in the 1850s.
“The fascinating tales of early Chinese migrants during the Gold Rush detailed through photographs shed light on the adventure, heartbreak, and social upheaval which would impact the development of British Columbia and China,” CCM said.
Presented by the Chinese Canadian Museum Society of BC in cooperation with Victoria Chinatown Museum Society, the exhibits received support from the province.
In a Thursday statement, Victoria mayor Lisa Helps applauds the project and says the exhibits will enable Victorians and visitors to learn about local history and lived experiences.
“Victoria is home of the oldest Chinatown in Canada and has a strong and diverse Chinese community with a rich and deep history,” Helps said.
“Members of the Chinese community have been leaders in arts, culture, business and politics, sometimes needing to overcome discrimination and racism to do so.”
She’s also pointing to the recent announcement of $27.5 million for the Chinese Canadian Museum’s new permanent home in Vancouver Chinatown.
Located within the city’s historic Wing Sang Building, the museum is set to open in 2023 with funding from the BC Government.
First Steps: Chinese Canadian Journeys in Victoria and Gold Mountain Dream!
When: Starting February 18th (Open Friday to Sunday, 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.)
Where: 10-14 Fan Tan Alley, Victoria, BC
