top of page
WELCOME TO
GOLD MOUNTAIN
you should have turned back a long time ago
In the 1850s, newspapers in Hong Kong announce the discovery of gold in California, and the Taishanese people begin to dream of Gold Mountain.
Migration to America presents them with a means to escape from ethnic conflict and economic struggles in the Guangdong Province. It'll also allow them to generate new wealth for themselves, their family, and their village.
However, by the time they arrive to America, gold is much harder to find, and they are viewed as a threat in many different ways.
To enter the continent, they are subjected to invasive inspections on Angel Island to prove they aren't disease-ridden. To earn money, they are ordered to take on unwanted and difficult jobs to mitigate their economic competition. To keep on living, they harbor their grievances deep within their hearts to prove they aren't a danger to society.
"America has power, but not justice.
In prison, we were victimized as if we were guilty.
Given no opportunity to explain, it was really brutal.
I bow my head in reflection, but there is nothing I can do."
- Chan, Angel Island
Nevertheless, the Taishanese persisted.
Gold Mountain Dreaming presents the story of Taishanese people who successfully came to America. Enter the forum to get a glimpse into their lives throughout the late nineteenth century and the circumstances that shaped their experiences.
bottom of page