For long-time resident Bernie Allen, Carson City's Chinatown is a but shadowy memory.
Railroad tracks running along the corridor that is now Stewart Street provided easy access to the old settlement, centered primarily around Third and Fourth streets on the east side of town. Allen often bought Chinese trinkets as he passed through on his way to visit friends at the orphanage near Fifth and Stewart streets.
Carson City's Chinatown was among the largest Chinese settlements in the West. During the 1800s, its 789 people were from all walks of life, but nothing is left of the town.
The Carson City Preservation Coalition wants to erect a plaque to commemorate the town and honor the Chinese who once lived there.
"Our goal is to preserve the history of Carson City," said Eileen Cohen, president of the coalition. "Chinatown is an important part of Carson City's history."
A private nonprofit organization, the coalition needs about $1,000 for the project. To garner support, it is hosting a talk on Chinatown.
Nevada State Archivist Guy Rocha and Bob Nylen, curator of history at the Nevada State Museum, will talk about Carson City's Chinatown at the Carson City Library Tuesday.
The plaque will be at Third and Stewart streets, behind the Supreme Court building. Dedication is set for Nevada Day weekend. Contributions will be accepted the night of the talk, or may be mailed to Carson City Preservation Coalition, P.O. Box 2358, Carson City, NV 89702.
What: Chinatown talk
When: 7 p.m. Tuesday
Where: Carson City Library Auditorium, 900 N. Roop St.
Cost: Free
