The Chinatown-International District was settled and developed by Asian Americans in the late 1800's. Many were employed in the lumber mills, fishing boats, railroads and offered domestic services. Others found work in factories, operating laundries, running restaurants and peddling vegetables. Over many decades, this area has developed into the Chinatown-International District because of its rich blend of not only Chinese, but Koreans, Filipinos, Vietnamese, and Laotians. With the emergence of the Southeast Asian community, the Chinatown-International District continues to renew its Asian American identity. The unique mixture of ethnic restaurants, gift shops, social service agencies and community organizations appeals to both newly arrived immigrants and to U.S. born Asian Americans.

For a complete look, dowload our "Then & Now" Brief.