How did Redmond grow to be the diverse community it is today?
This story is reflected in the lives of Redmond's Chinese American residents whose heritage, and leadership offers a lens through which to view the city’s evolving identity.
Redmond's Chinese American community, once small and isolated, is now thriving, vibrant, and active—a part of our interconnected, and multi cultural city.
In early 2025, a community member recognized the need to bring these stories to light, sparking a collaboration between the Redmond Historical Society and the Little Masters Club.
This digital exhibit is the result of that partnership. It is powered by the curiosity and passion of local high school volunteers who researched, documented, and uncovered critical chapters of our shared history.
This project allowed the Society to provide learning opportunities for the next generation, including an educational trip to Seattle's Wing Luke museum.
We invite you to explore this history, be inspired by the journey, and realize that your voice and your contributions are the next vital chapter in Redmond's story.
Project Focus:
Policies and Events that Influenced Immigration: Understanding the challenges and key legislative milestones that shaped settlement in our region.
The Stories of Early Chinese Americans Residents: Highlighting the pioneers whose resilience laid the groundwork for future generations.
Chinese American Owned Businesses: Celebrating past and present contributions to Redmond's economic vitality.
Contributions to the Tech Industry: Recognizing the impact of Chinese Americans in Redmond's well-known tech landscape.
Artists & Culture: Showcasing the creative works and artistic expressions that enhance our community.
Community: Documenting community engagement, leadership, and the establishment of cultural and spiritual anchors.
Volunteers and Redmond Historical Society representatives tour the East Kong Yick Building.
Students also defined a mission for for the project:
To bring attention to an under-represented topic and foster community connections, while gathering resources for future researchers.
With this mission in mind, students worked independently and with guidance from Society staff. In its mission to preserve and share, the Redmond Historical Society is always seeking new opportunities to expand it's archival knowledge.
This exhibit is one step towards better representing these stories, but also allows room for stories or individuals we may have missed.