In the 1860s, thousands of Chinese men joined the rush to the Clearwater and Salmon River gold mines; some helped establish Lewiston, Idaho, as a mining supply center. When the mining boom ended, most returned to China, but some made Lewiston their home, learned English, started families, and even became citizens. Several of these Chinese pioneers managed and owned restaurants, enabling them to sponsor later immigrants. 

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In cohesion with the exhibit at the museum, historian and filmmaker, Patricia Keith made a documentary with help from the Nez Perce County Historical Society and Lithophragma Productions regarding the early Chinese in Lewiston. The running time is 62 minutes and is available for purchase at the Museum store.