History | Chinese Communities
The 1920 Census indicated that Buffalo had 102 Chinese-born residents. A Buffalo Courier news story in 1927 pointed out that, at that time, there were 33 Chinese students enrolled in Buffalo elementary schools. The parents of the children often remained in China, sending them to live with cousins, uncles, or other relatives while receiving their education. The community grew slowly, but by 1930 they had established a Chinese Merchants' Association that served as a social center. Mr. Lee High was respected as the leader of the community. In 1930 he told a Buffalo Times reporter that there were about 30 Chinese men and boys out of work, and he had been trying to find jobs for them. The article also mentioned that Chinese Sunday School classes were being held at the Y.M.C.A.
The Japanese invasion of China that began in 1931 brought the Chinese community of Buffalo together, and they participated in a number of fund-raising drives, parades, and other war-related efforts. A Chinese Benevolent Association was established during this time. The Association was extremely active in World War II bond sale drives.
Vocabulary
Chinese Merchants Association: A group of businessmen who met to
better their conditions and have social activities.
Japanese invasion of China: Attempt by the Japanese to take
over Mainland China,beginning in 1931 and
continuing throughout World War II.
Fund-raising Drives: Efforts to raise money for a specific purpose or charity.
Chinese Benevolent Association:
Group or club that sponsored social and charity activities.
World War II Bond Sales: Bonds were sold to raise money for the war effort.
Those buying the bonds cashed them in at some point in the future,
giving the government the use of their money during wartime.