I am the first generation of Canadian born Chinese in my family lineage. In my younger years, there have been countless situations when I found myself, in Montreal's Chinatown, listening to the elders chitchatting and exchanging their own coming to Canada stories. Though I had already heard so many different versions, I would usually prick up my ears and really become absorbed in the tales, soaking up every little detail. Even at a young age, I already knew that hardship, hunger, alienation by the host country, loneliness, lack of self respect, longing for family loved ones and the hope to return home one day were common threads to all these tales. The only difference was the specific people involved.
I found these beautiful photos in the Vancouver Public Library's archives. For those interested, there is also a timeline and details that document the Chinese labourers' contribution to the building of Canada from as early as the 19-th century. See complete photo gallery.
This is how my great-grand-father and grand-father came to Canada! Perhaps, my great-grand is in this photo?!... since we do not have a record of what he looks like. :((
Both my great-grand-father and grand-father worked on building the railroad. (Canadian Pacific Railway Company)
Washing For Gold
Logging
If you're lucky, you can work as a domestic.
Alienation: Three Men And A Dog
Being a "visual" person, these photos added more "color" and definition to the images that I had created in my head after listening to these stories told by the elders.
If you liked the photos, please bookmark this post and share it with your friends. Or, just Digg it....... by the right of the title.
I think more people should know about the "coming of age" story of Chinese Canadians in this great land of ours.
I’d appreciate it. :)
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Chinatown / Palais de Congres
