Arboretum Chinese Labor Quarters

1848

James W. Marshall found gold at Sutter’s Mill on January 24^th. This triggered the California Gold Rush of 1849. For at least the next five years, immigrants from the eastern United States and from around the world, including China, came to capitalize on gold strikes and services provided to gold miners.

1852

Leland Stanford temporarily moved to California.

1853

Leland Stanford opened a store in Cold Springs, California.

1856

Leland Stanford and his wife, Jane, moved back to California, with the intent to stay.

1861

Central Pacific Railroad was incorporated. Leland Stanford was one of the “Big Four,” or “the Associates” as they called themselves.

1863

Construction began on the First Transcontinental Railroad. Between 10,000 and 12,000 Chinese workers were employed on the Railroad at any given time.

1869

First Transcontinental Railroad completed at Promontory Summit on May 10^th.

1876

Leland Stanford purchased Mayfield Grange, the first land purchase in what would become the Palo Alto Stock Farm.

1880

The planting of the Arboretum began.

1882

The Arizona Garden was planted.

Early 1880s

Arboretum Chinese Labor Quarters first occupied. The residence was located in the Arboretum, near the vineyard.

1884

The planning of the Arboretum continued, with 12,000 trees planted.

Leland Stanford Jr. died on March 13^th.  

1885

Construction of Stanford University began.

1888

The Mausoleum was constructed.

1889

Thomas Douglas, the first University gardener, was hired. Douglas worked closely with Chinese gardeners.

1890

First University landscaping took place in the Inner Quadrangle.

1891

Stanford University opened to students.

1893

Leland Stanford Sr. died on June 21^st.

1905

Jane Stanford died on February 28^th.

1925

End of occupation at the Arboretum Chinese Labor Quarters.