New Exhibit Showcases Chinese-American History in Savannah

News Summary

The Davenport House Museum in Savannah will debut a groundbreaking exhibit titled ‘Old Chan Magic: Chinese Roots, Southern Branches’ on January 16, 2025. This exhibit will explore the rich history of the Chinese-American community in the early 20th century, focusing on the lives of the Chan family who lived in the house during its transformation. The exhibit will include rare photographs and stories, highlighting the blend of Chinese heritage and Southern identity. An opening reception will be held on the debut date, free for all attendees.

Exciting New Exhibit Unveils Chinese-American History in Savannah

Good news for history buffs and curious minds in Savannah! A brand-new exhibit titled “Old Chan Magic: Chinese Roots, Southern Branches” is ready to roll out the red carpet and spotlight the rich history of the Chinese-American community in the early 20th century. Set to debut on January 16, 2025, this fascinating exhibition will take place at the Historic Savannah Foundation’s Murray C. Perlman and Wayne C. Spear Preservation Center, located at 323 E. Broughton St.. And even better? It’ll be open until May 2025!

Diving Deeper Into History

Davenport House Museum is expanding its narrative beyond its long-held focus on the years 1820 to 1827 when it was the home of Isaiah Davenport and family. Now, the spotlight shifts to explore the lives of the Chan family, who called the Davenport House home during its transformation into a tenement in the early 1900s.

Davenport House Museum, situated at 324 E. State St. on Columbia Square, has been an award-winning property since it opened in 1963. Executive Director Danielle Hodes has taken the reins in curating this new exhibit, which showcases not just the Chan family’s story but also the vibrant community of Chinese-Americans in Savannah during this period.

Get Ready for an Immersive Experience

Robert Chung Chan was one of the first Chinese immigrants to Savannah, arriving in 1889. The Chan family even ran a Chinese laundry from 1901 to 1902, located at what is now the Historic Kennedy Pharmacy.

Don’t Miss the Opening Reception

“Old Chan Magic” is scheduled for January 16 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.. And the best part? It’s free for all to attend, although RSVPs are encouraged as a way to manage the buzz. During the reception, the City of Savannah Municipal Archives will be on-site to collect oral histories, making it an opportunity to contribute to the ongoing narrative of this incredible community.

A Special Author Talk

Alexandra A. Chan. She will delve into her memoir, “In the Garden Behind the Moon,” which artfully blends family history with personal exploration against a backdrop of significant historical events and cultural heritage.

Preservation and Community Efforts

1820 and designed by carpenter Isaiah Davenport, almost met a different fate—it was saved from demolition by a group of local ladies in 1955, opening later as a museum in 1963. This initiative to present “Old Chan Magic” showcases Savannah’s multicultural heritage, ensuring that the stories of all its inhabitants are told and remembered.