Re: Gazebo proposed for Chinese memorial site
I am writing in support of our Chinese Community's request to erect a gazebo on the northwest corner of Hall and Vernon Streets.
The Chinese were one of the mass migrations that helped build British Columbia. Unlike the Doukhobor and Japanese influxes, the Chinese were less of a mass movement but rather came as individuals and have largely been recognized as workers to build the railways and were treated as disposable after that.
They built communities because they were seldom welcomed into ‘white’ areas so had to contend with less desirable homesites and jobs. Many were self-employed rather than work at menial labour jobs.
Nelson had its own Chinatown, as well as market gardens operated by Chinese labourers, helping us to be self sufficient in the 1900s.
Heritage BC has recognize this site as being of historical and cultural significance and has entered the district into the BC Register of Historical Places and Ottawa’s National Register.
I believe this gazebo would be an attractive and informative addition to our city.
Tim McDaniel
Nelson