Buried Lives: Uncovering the History of Chinese Laborers in the East Bay In-Person
Located on the 1st Floor of the Library CORE Building.
Dates: The exhibit is available to view in person throughout the end of February
Description: In the 1880s, Chinese laborers played a crucial role in constructing the San Leandro Reservoir, yet their stories remained largely forgotten. The excavation of their camp site, discovered nearly a century later, offers a rare glimpse into their daily lives—both on the job and in their camp. Named Yema Po, or "Wild Horse Slope" in Cantonese, after the wild mustangs workers used to help build the dam, the site reveals artifacts that shed light on the workers' experiences, from tools and dishware to game pieces and animal bones. The exhibit also explores the anti-Chinese sentiment of the era, providing a window into the challenges and resilience of these laborers. Visitors will uncover this hidden chapter of local history and step into the lives of the workers who helped shape the Bay Area.
Credits: Exhibit curated by students in ANTH 377 Fall 2024 & CE Smith Museum, Cal State East Bay
Content notice: discrimination (racism); animal remains. This exhibit, "Buried Lives: Uncovering the History of Chinese Laborers in the East Bay" contains descriptions of AAPI Racism, and displays turtle shell and pig, mountain lion, cuttlefish and fish bones. This content is included to describe life in the late 1800s.
- Date:
- Saturday, February 22, 2025 Show more dates
- Time:
- All Day Event
- Time Zone:
- Pacific Time - US & Canada (change)
- Location:
- University Libraries
- Campus:
- Hayward
- Audience:
- Faculty Graduate Students Open to the Public Staff Undergraduates
- Categories:
- Exhibit
