Historic Yosemite Hotel Honors Chinese Workers with New Exhibit

A century-old structure that served as a laundry for Chinese workers at Yosemite’s renowned Wawona Hotel has been restored and converted into a visitor attraction, celebrating the contributions of Chinese Americans to the early days of the national park.

On Friday, officials revealed a new sign marking the Chinese Laundry Building in Yosemite Valley, according to the Fresno Bee. Inside, new exhibits narrate the experiences of Chinese workers who played a crucial role in constructing Tioga Road and Wawona Road, essential routes that facilitated tourism in the park.

The building—previously utilized for storage—is part of a collection of structures that will comprise the new Yosemite History Center, dedicated to sharing the stories of immigrants who helped shape the park, as noted by park ranger Adam Ramsey.

“Chinese communities have significantly contributed to the Sierra Nevada region for a long time, and it’s high time we start sharing that history here in Yosemite,” stated Ramsey.

Research by park ranger Yenyen Chan reveals that in 1883, Chinese laborers constructed the 56-mile Tioga Road in an impressive 130 days. This breathtaking route through the Sierra Nevada peaks at 10,000 feet and is one of the park’s primary thoroughfares.

Chinese workers also found employment in Yosemite as chefs, laundry attendants, and gardeners.

Many arrived in California during the Gold Rush, bringing with them skills in construction, engineering, agriculture, medicine, and textiles from China, which greatly contributed to America’s early achievements, according to Chan.

She mentioned that Yosemite’s Chinese heritage and their contributions have been largely forgotten due to the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act, which Congress enacted to stop further Chinese immigration for work. This law effectively barred Chinese individuals from entering the country for 60 years.

Members of the Chinese Historical Society of Southern California, who backed the renovation of the building, expressed their satisfaction at Yosemite recognizing the role of Chinese Americans in the park's history.

“This really resonates with many people in my generation,” shared Eugene Moy, a former president of the society. “We’ve been part of this country since the 1870s, so witnessing this recognition holds significant meaning, as we are often pushed to the margins. We aren't always seen as full-fledged Americans, despite many of us having roots here for three, four, even five generations, spanning 150 years.”