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Newspapers

An old book and postcard inside a glass case
A label reading, The Golden Hills’ News was the first Chinese-language newspaper in the United States, published in San Francisco in 1854. Aimed at merchants, it advocated for Chinese rights, open trade, and immigration. This printing block is a recreation of the original 1854 newspaper by the founders of the Chinese Historical Society of America in San Francisco. The newspaper was originally handwritten with a Chinese brush and distributed weekly. Though it ceased publication within the year, The Golden Hills’ News marked the birth of Chinese American journalism. The front page of the May 27, 1854, edition is written vertically and includes one column of English text that reads, in part: Merchants, Manufacturers, Miners, and Agriculturists, come forward as friends, not scorners of the Chinese, so that they may mingle in the march of the world, and help to open for America an endless vista of future commerce.
A painting of a Chinese paper boy selling newspapers.
A label reading, Newspapers played an integral role in early Chinatowns, providing information and connection for Chinese-language readers in the United States. The publications brought awareness of the widespread anti-Chinese sentiment, and they helped Chinese unite in defense of their traditions and culture. Articles informed readers about happenings in the United States as well as affairs in China, and advertisements played a major role in promoting businesses. Editorials often gave advice that urged Chinese immigrants to make the most of living in this country. Readership and literacy rates greatly increased at the turn of the 20th century, and even today Chinese-language newspapers are prominent in Chinese American communities. As different ethnic groups rushed for gold in the 1850s, newspapers sprang up to fill their needs. When the first Chinese-language newspaper was published, San Francisco already had 12 others in various languages.
A photo of a boy carrying a newspaper the label reads, A newspaper boy selling the Sai Gai Yat Bo (Chinese World). Published from 1909 to 1969, it was a rival publication to Chung Sai Yat Po (China West Daily). Their opposing political and religious views created a competition for credibility and readership. Photograph by Louis J. Stellman, 1910s. Image courtesy of California History Room, California State Library, Sacramento
A label reading, The first daily Chinese-language newspaper published outside China was Chung Sai Yat Po (China West Daily), which ran from 1900 to 1951. Based in San Francisco, it was a vital resource for early Chinese Americans. Founding editor and writer Ng Poon Chew (1866–1931) moved to the United States in 1881 at age 15. He embraced Western culture and became the first Chinese Presbyterian minister in California. Chew founded the newspaper as a community platform to advocate for Chinese American civil rights. When the 1906 earthquake destroyed the newspaper building, Chung Sai Yat Po was relocated to Oakland and resumed publishing a week later with a hand-copied issue.

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