Kam Wah Chung Museum is a must-see for anyone with an interest in Oregon history. Preserving the legacy of the Chinese workforce in Oregon, the museum contains artifacts and displays that share some of the trials of everyday life of these people.
Chinese businessman Lung On and herbal doctor Ing Hay worked out of this building. Dr. Hay administered care to the Chinese gold-mine workers, pioneers, and others from the John Day area and beyond by using traditional Chinese remedies.
The structure was built as a trading post on The Dalles Military Road in the mid-1800s.
The museum recently underwent a $1.5 million restoration project that included repairing the building exterior and replacing damaged interior features with historically appropriate materials. The building and all the artifacts are now protected by a high-fog fire suppression system and fire detection, security and lighting systems. More on the restoration. (2.06MB pdf)
Vital stats The Kam Wah Chung and Co. Museum and Interpretive Center is open daily May 1 - Oct. 31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Museum guided tours start at the top of each hour and last about 45 minutes. Final tour starts at 4 p.m. each day. Call (541) 575-2800 or (800) 551-6949 for more information.
