Try this walking tour of historic sites in Boston Chinatown. Click here for a worksheet.
Start at A. The Chinatown Gate
What purpose does the Chinatown gate serve? Why does it proclaim "the world belongs to all" (in Chinese)? Walk down Beach Street to your next stop. Why is this street called "Beach Street"?
How many kinds of pastry do you see at Hing Shing Pastry?
B. Old Community Bulletin Board
What was the purpose of a community bulletin board before newspapers?
C. Oxford Place Playground
What do you see in the mural?
D. Phillis Wheatley Landing Place
What does this historic landmark tell you about the different people who came through this neighborhood?
E. Lee family Association, 10 Tyler St (upper floors)
How do you think a family association can help new immigrants? See if you find other family associations around Chinatown. What is on the ground floor of this building?
(Look across the street to China Pearl, one of the oldest dim sum restaurants in Boston.)
F. Kwong Kow Chinese School
This is the oldest Chinese school in Boston. What do kids learn at this school?
G. Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of New England/Site of old Quincy School (see photo here)
This building used to be the Quincy School. It was the first school in the US to have separate grades. By 1965 it was 100% Chinese. Whose statue is in front?
Walk down Hudson Street back toward the gate. What kinds of businesses or associations can you see on this street?
H. Happy Family Food Market
Why is this market called "Happy Family"?
I. Mary Soo Hoo Park
What kinds of activities do you see in the park? Is the park mainly for children or seniors? Can you find a mural (back side of park)?
J. Rose Kennedy Greenway - Chinatown Park
Have your picnic here.
See slides for a Chinese New Year Parade in Boston Chinatown. Do you recognize the street? What food do you see? Why is the lion dancing?