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San Francisco, California / Museums

Chinese Historical Society of America Museum

The oldest and largest archive in the US documenting the Chinese American experience, housed in a landmarked Julia Morgan building in San Francisco's Chinatown.

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Chinese Historical Society of America Museum
www.chsa.org, og_image_www.chsa.org

What is the Chinese Historical Society of America Museum known for?

It is the oldest and largest archive and history center in the United States dedicated to documenting, interpreting, and preserving the history and contributions of Chinese Americans.

What are the hours?

The museum's current public hours are Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

How do I get tickets?

General admission tickets can be booked online, where you can select dates in advance, or purchased at the front desk on a first-come, first-served basis.

Where is the museum located?

The museum is located at 965 Clay Street in San Francisco's Chinatown neighborhood, housed in the historically landmarked Julia Morgan-designed Chinatown YWCA building.

What can I see at the museum?

The museum features permanent exhibits on Chinese American culture, people, and movements, and maintains a collection of nearly 22,000 historical artifacts. It also offers on-site, online, and traveling exhibitions.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Chinese Historical Society of America Museum is the oldest organization in the United States dedicated to interpreting and preserving Chinese American history. It serves as a primary center for research, scholarship, and learning, utilizing exhibitions and public programs to illuminate the collective experience of the Chinese in America. Located at 965 Clay Street, the museum is housed in the historically landmarked Chinatown YWCA building, which was designed by the renowned architect Julia Morgan. This architectural gem provides a fitting backdrop for the museum's extensive archives. Inside, the museum manages a vast collection of nearly 22,000 Chinese and Chinese American historical artifacts. These items are used to create permanent exhibits that explore the people, places, and movements in Chinese American culture that have shaped the current era. Beyond its physical galleries, the museum offers a mix of on-site exhibitions, online exhibits, and traveling exhibits. It continues to promote the legacy and contributions of the Chinese in America through publications and educational programs in its Learning Center.

Visitor tips

  • Book general admission tickets online in advance to secure your date.
  • Check the current museum hours, as they are listed as Wednesday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the homepage.
  • Use the Muni Metro T-line and exit at the Rose Pak/Chinatown station for easy access.
  • Allow extra time to explore the Learning Center and current exhibitions.

Nearby context

Situated in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown, the museum is a cornerstone of the community's history. It is located near the historic Fairmont San Francisco and the traditional Hang Ah Tea Room.

Sources

Evidence and links