Wing Chong Chinese Laundry
Hours of Operation
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Monday
Closed
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Tuesday
Closed
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Wednesday
Closed
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Thursday
Closed
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Friday
Closed
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Saturday
Closed
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Sunday
Closed
The Historical Village is closed except for special events like Ghouls' Night Out and Once Upon a Christmas until the 2026 May Long Weekend.
Exhibit Details
Category
Building/Museum
About the Wing Chong Chinese Laundry
NEW Interpretation at Wing Chong Chinese Laundry
For the first time, an interpreter will share captivating stories of Chinese laundries and their vital role in shaping life on the prairies. Discover the rich and inspiring history of Chinese culture and its lasting influence on Western Canada in this immersive and unforgettable experience.
The History of Wing Chong Chinese Laundry
Most Chinese immigrants, nearly all of them men, arrived in Canada between 1881 and 1885 to work on the Canadian Pacific Railway. When the railway was completed, most Chinese found they had not earned enough money to return to China or to send for loved ones.
Many found work as domestic servants or established small service-sector businesses such as groceries, laundries and restaurants. June Jay Tse arrived in Canada to work on the railway, and moved to High River in 1910, starting a laundry business four years later. Tse’s first job at the business was to lead a horse and cart to Okotoks to pick up and deliver laundry. He purchased the building in 1925 for $1,100, and did not retire from the business until 1970. The town of High River donated the building to Heritage Park in 1978.
