Locke in Walnut Grove in Sacramento County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
打更 The Bok Bok Man 更夫
Photographed by Tuleburgh Chapter No. 69 E Clampus Vitus
1. The Bok Bok Man Marker
Long ago in China, small communities would hire a night watchman, called a Geng Fu, to patrol their villages after dark. He would mark the hour by hitting a gong or hollowed wood block while looking out for fire and thieves.
This centuries old tradition followed Chinese immigrants to the United States, especially to towns in the delta where all the structures were made of wood.
As fire was a constant threat, the Geng Fu had one simple yet important duty: to keep his nightly vigil to ensure all was well. From the sound of his knocks, the townsfolk, using onomatopoeia, called the Geng Fu "The Bok Bok Man."
Locke's last bok bok man retired in 1954. Some say his wandering spirit still patrols the town after dark.
Erected by John A. Sutter Chapter #1841 Tuleburgh Chapter #69 Pio Pico #1801 Outpost of Major William Downie Chapter #1849 E Clampus Vitus.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Anthropology & Archaeology • Asian Americans • Immigration • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the E Clampus Vitus series list.
Location. 38° 15.06′ N, 121° 30.584′ W. Marker is in Walnut Grove
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Regionally, this marker is in California’s Sacramento Metro, in Sacramento Valley, and specifically in the Central Valley. It is also on the American Pacific Coast. Globally, it is in North America, on the Ring of Fire, in the Pacific Rim, in the Western Hemisphere, in the Western World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain and also Mexicos Alta California.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Locke Memorial Park (within shouting distance of this marker); Locke (within shouting distance of this marker); Welcome to Locke (within shouting distance of this marker); Al the Wop's / Bing Lee's Noodle House (within shouting distance of this marker); Locke, California (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); a different marker also named Locke (about 400 feet away); Delta Transmission Towers/Delta Cross Channel Gates (approx. Ό mile away); Charles Chuck Tison (approx. Ό mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Walnut Grove.
2. The Bok Bok Man Marker Dedication
3. The Bok Bok Man
Credits. This page was last revised on April 14, 2026. It was originally submitted on May 6, 2025, by Frank Gunshow Sanchez of Hollister, California. This page has been viewed 217 times since then and 57 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on May 6, 2025, by Frank Gunshow Sanchez of Hollister, California. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
