Discover the Chinese Canadian Legacy in the BC Interior
Join us for a captivating summer road trip through the heart of British Columbia, exploring the rich history and enduring legacy of Chinese Canadians in the region. Our journey includes a guided walking tour of downtown Kamloops, featuring an exclusive viewing of the Kamloops Museum & Archives collection of Chinese Canadian historical objects, a reflective visit to the historic Kamloops Chinese Cemetery, and an inspiring stop at the recently reopened Lytton Chinese History Museum. Along the way, we'll trace the footsteps of early Chinese migrants, learn about the resilience of these communities, and gain insights into the cultural heritage that continues to shape the province. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with the remarkable stories of BC's interior!
Day 1 – Kamloops
Discover the history of Kamloops' once-thriving Chinatown district, the significance of the Kamloops Chinese Cemetery, and the legacy of trailblazing leaders like Peter Wing – the first Chinese mayor in North America. This day will include guided tours led by Kamloops Museum & Archives staff and CCHSBC board members, providing a deep dive into the region’s rich past. Tour participants will have the opportunity to network and socialize over a group dinner.
Day 2 – Lytton
Experience the inspiring resilience of the Lytton Chinese History Museum, which has risen from the ashes after being completely destroyed in the devastating 2021 fire. Enjoy an exclusive tour led by museum owner Lorna Fandrich, and learn about the lives of the thousands of Chinese miners, railway workers, merchants, and farmers who shaped BC’s interior. Group lunch will be provided. The afternoon will include a breathtaking view of the confluence of the Thompson and Fraser Rivers at O'Dwyer Park and learning about how Chinese settlers’ histories intertwine with the land and geography of Lytton.
Dates: Saturday, June 21 - Sunday, June 22, 2025
Cost: $155 for members, $175 for non-members. (The tour fee will include your entrance fees to the museums/sights, and two group meals. Excludes travel and accommodations which you would book separately (recommendations below).)
If you are interested in joining us please register and pay the tour fee at the link below!
Day 1 – Kamloops
Discover the history of Kamloops' once-thriving Chinatown district, the significance of the Kamloops Chinese Cemetery, and the legacy of trailblazing leaders like Peter Wing – the first Chinese mayor in North America. This day will include guided tours led by Kamloops Museum & Archives staff and CCHSBC board members, providing a deep dive into the region’s rich past. Tour participants will have the opportunity to network and socialize over a group dinner.
Day 2 – Lytton
Experience the inspiring resilience of the Lytton Chinese History Museum, which has risen from the ashes after being completely destroyed in the devastating 2021 fire. Enjoy an exclusive tour led by museum owner Lorna Fandrich, and learn about the lives of the thousands of Chinese miners, railway workers, merchants, and farmers who shaped BC’s interior. Group lunch will be provided. The afternoon will include a breathtaking view of the confluence of the Thompson and Fraser Rivers at O'Dwyer Park and learning about how Chinese settlers’ histories intertwine with the land and geography of Lytton.
Dates: Saturday, June 21 - Sunday, June 22, 2025
Cost: $155 for members, $175 for non-members. (The tour fee will include your entrance fees to the museums/sights, and two group meals. Excludes travel and accommodations which you would book separately (recommendations below).)
If you are interested in joining us please register and pay the tour fee at the link below!
Itinerary
Please Note: Itinerary is subject to change.
Saturday, June 21, 2025
12:00PM 1:00PM 4:00PM 5:00PM 7:00PM |
Depart from Vancouver (at your discretion)
Meet at Gaglardi Park / St. Andrew’s Square in Kamloops. Lunch not included. Kamloops Museum & Archives Tour Chinese Cemetery Visit Group Dinner Hotel Check-in Participants are responsible for their own accommodation bookings so we suggest you book in advance! Here are some hotels nearby: Double Tree Hilton, Sandman Signature |
Sunday, June 22, 2025
10:00AM 12:00PM 5:00PM |
Drive to Lytton (at your discretion)
Lytton Chinese Museum Tour Group Lunch at Kumsheen Trip ends in Lytton. Drive back to Vancouver |
Resources
Gold Mountain River (2014)
Exploring Historical sites along the Fraser River (2015)
Fraser Corridor Heritage Landscape Project Report 2014–2015
The Peasant's Gold: The Story of Peter Wing (Book)
Exploring Historical sites along the Fraser River (2015)
Fraser Corridor Heritage Landscape Project Report 2014–2015
The Peasant's Gold: The Story of Peter Wing (Book)