Founded in 1980, the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history, heritage, culture and diverse experiences of people of Chinese decent in the United States.The museum was designed by Maya Lin, the American designer and artist who at the age of 21 designed the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C. In the lobby, the Journey Wall’s bronze tiles are engraved in both Chinese and English with family names, places of origin in China and where they settled in the US. On-site, audiences have access to fresh innovative exhibits and culturally rich programs, including a core exhibition featuring 160 years of Chinese American history, interactive educational opportunities for families, children and school groups. One gallery in the Museum recreates a combined general store, post office and travel agency, a vital lifeline for immigrant families to connect with relatives in China and Chinatowns across the US.
The Museum will be hosting a Lunar New Year Family Festival on Saturday February 20th from 11-4pm. Celebrating with zodiac themed arts and crafts, festive music , storytelling and dance performances.
Museum of Chinese in America 215 Centre Street (212) 619-4785 http://mocanyc.org