Bakersfield in Kern County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Joss House
Photographed By Syd Whittle, November 27, 2009
1. Joss House Marker
The Chinese community was an early and significant element of the population of Kern County.
Chinese immigrants contributed to the social, economic and industrial growth of Kern County by mining, farming, building railroads, and owning businesses. The first Chinese immigrants to Kern County came to work in the mines around Keyesville.
A small building was constructed in the 1870s in Bakersfield to serve the religious needs of the Chinese residents of the area. Such a Chinese temple was commonly referred to as a Joss House.
This structure is not an original Joss House. The items on exhibit here were donated by the local Chinese community. The religious figures, carved screens, altar, and incense are examples of those found in a place of worship.
Frank and Margaret Stanton donated this former residence in 1979.
Erected by Kern County Museum.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Asian Americans • Industry & Commerce • Railroads & Streetcars • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the Chinese Heritage Sites of the American West series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1979.
Location. 35° 23.55′
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Gazebo (a few steps from this marker); Drug Store (a few steps from this marker); Haggard House (within shouting distance of this marker); Miller and Lux Survey Office (within shouting distance of this marker); Bena Depot (within shouting distance of this marker); Doctor's Office (within shouting distance of this marker); Southern Pacific Railroad Jail (within shouting distance of this marker); Bandstand (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Bakersfield.
Photographed By Syd Whittle, November 27, 2009
2. Joss House Building and Marker
3. Photos Displayed on Marker
Upper Photo:
Leong Yen and Ying Ming family in 1910. The Ming family owned a farm on land situated between Ming Avenue and Panama Lane.
Lower Photo:
Chinese laborers working on the railroad near Tahachapi Loop, circa 1890.
Leong Yen and Ying Ming family in 1910. The Ming family owned a farm on land situated between Ming Avenue and Panama Lane.
Lower Photo:
Chinese laborers working on the railroad near Tahachapi Loop, circa 1890.
4. Photos Displayed on Marker
Upper Photo:
Suey On Tong (two story building) on L Street near 21st Street in Bakersfield, circa 1910
Lower Photo:
Several men gather in an area known as Chinatown near downtown Bakersfield, circa 1910.
Suey On Tong (two story building) on L Street near 21st Street in Bakersfield, circa 1910
Lower Photo:
Several men gather in an area known as Chinatown near downtown Bakersfield, circa 1910.
Credits. This page was last revised on November 5, 2019. It was originally submitted on December 9, 2009, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona. This page has been viewed 1,838 times since then and 115 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on December 9, 2009, by Syd Whittle of Mesa, Arizona.
