Kam Wah Chung Trading Post was the central gathering place for the miners at the end of a long day. Here they could compare their day with other miners, get treated for the ailments they had with Doc Hay providing the herbs necessary to resolve their problems. With a supply of over 500 herbs Doc Hay was able to provide nearly everything known to treat many problems for the miners. The herbs were so precious that they were kept in the apothecary which was secured with iron bars over the windows.

Volcanic tuff which was quarried locally provided the foundation and first level of the building while the second story was built using pine wood planking. With time the building became worn and weathered, but the history connected to the building teaches us about the life and times of the Chinese workers in the 1800's in small John Day.

Two men, Doc Hay and Lung On owned the building but were not selfish with their home, they opened the doors to relatives, travelers and indigent workers that needed shelter for a time. In the 1940's this ceased, times had changed.

Entering the Kam Wah Chung Museum will open the door to your for a wealth of information about how the Chinese miners lived. It has a display of Chinese art work and written information for you to browse. You will also be able to tour the 7 rooms including the kitchen, medical room, general store area, stockroom, herb room and two bedrooms. This opportunity to study the history of Oregon is one you will be glad you took the time to explore.

Open seven days a week from May 1 - September 30 you can visit the Museum from 9 - 5 where questions can be answered and tours given.

With no street number the Museum is located on NW 1st Ave. in John Day, Oregon. Here you will be able to take a trip back in time, don't miss the opportunity.