IDAHO
Pon Yam House
Montgomery Street & Commercial Street Idaho City , Idaho 83631
In 1870 Idaho ’ s Chinese population exceeded that in California . Few were more successful than the Chinese immigrant Pon Yam , who possessed the largest diamond ring in the Boise Basin and who became known as the “ king merchant .” Well respected by both whites and Chinese , Pon Yam lived in Idaho City for 20 years before returning to his hometown in China . During his sojourn in Idaho , the Pon Yam House became the heart of the Chinese community . Festivals and other Chinese celebrations were held at the store and for these special occasions , Pon Yam would decorate the store with his own paintings and ornaments . Additionally , Pon Yam and other Chinese participated in local American festivities . One newspaper reported that during a Fourth of July celebration Pon Yam and other prominent white merchants donated money for a new schoolhouse .
Today , the Pon Yam House serves as a reminder of the integral role Chinese played in the early history of Idaho City . Furthermore , Pon Yam ’ s life demonstrates that Chinese immigrants were both active and effective members of their community .
MONTANA
The Mai Wah Museum
17 West Mercury Street Butte , Montana 59701 ( 406 ) 723-3231
Portland Japanese Garden Pavillion
The Mai Wah Museum includes a small collection of fine art , created by local artists , and promotes the Asian heritage of Butte . The Wah Chong Tai was Butte ’ s preeminent Chinese general store . The company was established about 1894 and moved into the present building when it was built in 1899 . The photo below shows the interior in 1905 .
May | June 2022 57