HERE7: Dogpatch Ranch - The Origins of a Chinese American Family (Part I)

HERE7: Dogpatch Ranch - The Origins of a Chinese American Family (Part I)

[Note: This is the first of two sessions of Glenn Lym's presentation. To register for the second session, please click .]

This is the story of Glenn Lym's Chinese great-grandfather, great-grandmother, and the seven children they raised on a ranch in the late 1800's in the Potrero neighborhood of San Francisco. How and why did they raise their family on a ranch in outlying San Francisco instead of in Chinatown? This was a time of intense anti-Chinese sentiment. Some of the answers spin out in the lives of their children, and these answers suggest an unexpected interface between early Chinese entrepreneurs and San Francisco’s early business elite tied to the Pacific Ocean trade and to the railroads.

This program will feature the first 35 minutes of documentarian Glenn Lym's film, followed by a 25-minute Q&A and discussion.

About the Monday Noontime History Series

Mechanics' Institute, a historical institution in the heart of downtown San Francisco, proudly hosts its noontime history series on select Mondays, offering a fascinating journey through various historical topics that resonate both locally and internationally. This series is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, featuring an array of engaging subjects that bring the past to life. Past presentations include"" with Isidra Mencos, "" with Tony Bucher, and "" with Myles Dungan. Through this diverse and enriching series, Mechanics' Institute continues to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of history, bridging the past into the present for its audience.

About the Presenter

was born and raised in Berkeley, California. He graduated from UC Berkeley in Architecture and received a Ph.D in Social Psychology from Harvard University. His architectural practice began in the SF Bay Area, and he retired at the end of 2023. Glenn began his HERE series of documentary videos. Presently, there are 11 documentaries that range in subject matter from the differences between the de Young and Academy of Science Museums to how his great grandfather raised his family on a ranch in San Francisco's Potrero Hill Dogpatch area. The HERE series is ongoing.

Cancellation Policy

We reserve the right to cancel at any time and issue a full refund. If you are unable to attend this series, please email [email protected] by Sunday, May 5, 2024, to receive a full refund less any non-refundable ticketing fees which may be applicable. All fees must be paid at the time of registration. After Sunday, May 5, 2024 no refunds will be issued.

Questions? Please contact [email protected].

Host or Publisher Mechanics' Institute