Kam Wah Chung Interpretive Center — Attraction in John Day

Anyone with an interest in the history of Chinese in America, and who is anywhere near this museum, which is in somewhat of a remote small town, known for fly fishing, will find this spot engaging.

The old store was sealed with its contents intact when the owners passed, and remained untouched for many years. It's been restored to its original condition. The visitor's center, a block away is a good spot to spend 45 minutes with video and displays before walking through the old store itself.

Flash photography is prohibited in the old store because the materials are delicate, so bring a monopod (aka walking stick) if you want to take photos there, it is dimly lit. It is so amazing, you will want to do so!

The staff does a great job telling the story of the two owners and the Chinese experience in America in the late 19th, early 20th century. This museum is part of the Oregon State Park system and their website covers hours, the Winter closure and more. The employees also actually answered the phone when I called!

On my visit I saw a Chinese American family with their children. There wil be a day when this small museum will be a destination for visitors from China. See it before it...

We started at the heritage site, but it was closed due to covid, I think. We walked the block or two to the interpretive center, which was excellent. They had tons of information, history, and artifacts there. The guide at the front desk has plenty of nuggets of knowledge to share with us. The gift shop has some cool trinkets and tchotchkes, a couple of which we purchased in order to support the museum. We were all pleasantly surprised to learn about the Chinese immigrants that came to John Day for the gold rush, as we had no idea about this piece of Oregon’s history. The interpretive center is kid-friendly, as most items are in cases or wrapped in plastic, etc., to prevent damage. Great...

One of the most unique and interesting historical sites I have been too. My 8yo made it through the hour long guided tour with interest and the Ranger was really wonderful at including facts for her and encourageing her to participate. The guided tour is very well thought out and presented. I would recommend visiting the Center down the steet first to get an understanding of what you'll experience. A time capsule of a very old building belonging to two very amazing men. One of my favorite things from our family vacation this year. Not recommended for small kids, you can't touch anything inside...