This presentation examines the lives and occupations of Chinese women in the West. Besides Polly Bemis, other Chinese women are individually recognized for their particular contributions and accomplishments. Historical documents, such as newspapers, census records, and marriage license applications, help locate Chinese women in the West, while artifacts found on archaeological sites and in museums help us understand Chinese customs such as footbinding, and confirm the presence of Chinese women in areas for which no documentation exists. Although owned at first by a Warren, Idaho, Chinese businessman, she later married Charlie Bemis, and the couple moved to a remote area along the Salmon River. After two years in Warren after Charlie's death in 1922, Polly Bemis returned to the Salmon River and remained there until just before her death in 1933.
Primary sources provide evidence showing that both statements are myths.
This slide lecture also incorporates photographs of Polly and her home, and diary entries about her by one of her neighbors. The following lectures are also available, although not through the Idaho Humanities Council Speakers Bureau. Asian American History in Baker City, Oregon Chinese people were living and working in Baker City, Oregon at least as early as 1870. Twenty-nine men were miners, laundrymen, and cooks. Three women were listed as prostitutes, but may instead have been wives or concubines.