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Free Traveling Guides » States » California » Northern California
Joss House State Historic Site
Located in Weaverville, California, the Joss House State Historic Park houses the oldest and most functional Chinese temple in the state. Known as the Taoist Temple of Worship, the Joss House was built in 1874 by a Chinese community who came to this region in search of gold.
“The Temple among the trees beneath the clouds” was historically significant and an architectural marvel. However, most of the furnishings of the original temple building were destroyed in a fire in 1873. The new temple was constructed in 1874 through generous contributions from the local Chinese community.
Taoism, based on which the temple had been constructed, is an ancient Chinese religion that aims at deriving peace through worshipping nature. From the day the temple was constructed, worshippers have been continuously visiting the place. Devotees pray before the images of the gods of Health, Decision or Mercy and place their offerings before them.
The historical significance of the temple was recognized only after several artifacts belonging to the temple went missing during a robbery in 1934. One of the most significant and ancient artifacts that was stolen includes a pair of Lion Dogs, popularly referred to as the “Dogs of Foo”.
As a part of the efforts to preserve this important aspect of Chinese traditions in California, the temple was made a part of California State Park System in 1956. Many of the historical objects were restored and kept inside the temple in a similar manner as they existed during earlier days. However, renovations were made in the surroundings of the temple, including installation of better electric lights, providing support to the temple structure using protective railings, and construction of civil amenities like the visitor’s center, a parking lot, and the Kuan Yin Pool in the adjoining grounds.
Located besides the temple are the priest’s quarters and a community meeting hall. In addition to the temple equipment, other artifacts that have been put on display include prominent Chinese art objects, pictures, mining tools, and wrought iron weapons used during the 1854 Tong war.
The most significant event at the temple is the Lion Dance, organized annually as a part of the Chinese New Year celebrations during January or February.
- Address: South West corner of Highway 299 and Oregon Street, Weaverville, CA
96093
- Telephone: (530) 623-5284
- Hours: Weds - Sun, 10 AM – 5 PM
- Website: www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=457
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