In the 1880s, Chinese laborers played a crucial role in constructing the San Leandro Reservoir, yet their stories remained largely forgotten. The excavation of their camp site, discovered nearly a century later, offers a rare glimpse into their daily lives—both on the job and in their camp. Named Yema Po, or "Wild Horse Slope" in Cantonese, after the wild mustangs workers used to help build the dam, the site reveals artifacts that shed light on the workers' experiences, from tools and dishware to game pieces and animal bones. The exhibit also explores the anti-Chinese sentiment of the era, providing a window into the challenges and resilience of these laborers. Visitors will uncover this hidden chapter of local history and step into the lives of the workers who helped shape the Bay Area.
