The Burning of San Jose Chinatown
HISTORY · HISTORICAL MARKER
The Burning of San Jose Chinatown
May 4, 1887
History
5
On this site on May 4, 1887, a mysterious fire, deliberately set, destroyed San Jose's Chinatown, the largest Chinatown south of San Francisco. A community of bachelors and families, these early Chinese pioneers were instrumental in developing the economy of Santa Clara County.
PHOTOS
Photo: Jordan Yee AKA "Ranger Yee"
FIND IT
© 2026 MainEngine