Lecture on the Chinese history of Sonoma Valley on Sept. 10

The role that the Chinese played in the settling of Sonoma Valley will be explored in a lecture on Saturday, Sept. 10, at the Sonoma Community Center.

The Sonoma Valley Historical Society has invited Gordon Phillips to speak on “Chinese History of Sonoma Valley and County.”

A retired lawyer, Phillips lived and taught in China before returning to Sonoma State University to earn a master’s degree in Chinese history. He will share stories that he has learned researching the little known history of the Chinese in Sonoma County. Phillips will speculate on where the first Chinese came to Sonoma Valley from; their work at wineries and contributions to Sonoma Valley agriculture and to the county generally; the Boycott – the attempt to kick the Chinese out; some anecdotal evidence from the census of the Sonoma Valley Chinese population, their gender, numbers and occupations, and then the Valley’s and county’s loss of population and the speculative reasons why.

Phillips is passionate about Chinese history in Sonoma County and he will share stories that he has learned researching the little known history of the Chinese who contributed much to the economic development of California including Sonoma. The Chinese labored at railroads, wineries, and all sorts of businesses, including being stonemasons. He will speak about the Buena Vista/Haraszthy experience; what the Chinese brought to the Valley’s agriculture and to the county generally; Included in his talk will be information about the Chinese women in Sonoma County and their place in this story. Admission to the 2 p.m. lecture is $5 general and free to members. SCC is located at 276 E. Napa St.