The Umatilla County Historical Society (UCHS) is excited to welcome students and faculty from Southern Oregon University’s Anthropology Department to Heritage Station Museum for a week of research, exploration, and community collaboration as part of the award-winning Oregon Chinese Diaspora Project.
During their stay in Umatilla County, the SOU team will investigate sites connected to the region’s Chinese miners, cowboys, merchants, and community leaders, uncovering stories that have long been overlooked and helping preserve an important chapter of Oregon’s history.
The public are invited to a special presentation on Wednesday, July 22, at 6:00 p.m. at Heritage Station Museum. Historical archaeologist Chelsea Rose, Director of the Southern Oregon University Laboratory of Anthropology (SOULA), will present “Digging into Oregon History with the Chinese Diaspora Project.” The event is free and open to everyone.
Rose is a nationally recognized historical archaeologist whose work focuses on the settlement and development of the American West. Through partnerships with communities, students, and volunteers, she has helped bring archaeology to life while promoting stewardship of Oregon’s rich cultural heritage.
About The Oregon Chinese Diaspora Project
The Oregon Chinese Diaspora Project is an award-winning, statewide collaboration that combines archaeology, historical research, and community engagement to uncover the experiences of Chinese immigrants throughout Oregon. The project has investigated railroad camps, mining communities, Chinatowns, and other significant sites. During this presentation, Rose will share the team’s latest discoveries, including research into Chinese American cowboys, early gold camps, and Pendleton’s vibrant Chinese community.
“We’re thrilled to host the SOU team and continue our partnership as we develop an exhibit inspired by their research,” said UCHS Executive Director Shannon Gruenhagen. “Chelsea has been instrumental in securing funding from the Oregon Community Foundation to help us tell the stories of Umatilla County’s Chinese community. In addition to the museum exhibit, we’re creating a traveling version and an interactive educational trunk that will bring these stories and hands-on learning opportunities to schools and communities throughout the region.”
The research conducted this summer will help shape future exhibits and educational programming, ensuring that the contributions of Chinese Americans in Eastern Oregon are preserved and shared with new generations.
The Umatilla County Historical Society is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the unique history of Umatilla County. Through engaging exhibits, educational programs, and community partnerships, UCHS connects people with the stories that have shaped the region and inspires a deeper understanding of its diverse heritage.
