Exploring the History of Chinese Camp: A Postcard Journey Step back in time with us as we uncover the fascinating history of Chinese Camp, a town that once bustled with 5,000 Chinese miners in the 1850s. Today, there is no trace of these miners, leaving behind a mystery of where they went and their origins. One significant event that took place in Chinese Camp was the first tong war in California, which occurred on September 26, 1856, at the foot of nearby Table Mountain. The Yan Wo Tong and Sam Tu Tong clashed in a battle that involved 900 and 1200 men respectively. Despite several hours of yelling and clashing, the casualties were minimal, with only four dead and four wounded. The white miners even joined the battle, adding to the chaos. Nowadays, Chinese Camp is a quiet town that attracts tourists traveling along Highway 49, known as the Mother Lode. Visitors can explore the town and imagine what life was like during the Gold Rush era. The postcard captures a glimpse of Chinese Camp, with a photo-color image by Merle Porter and published by Royal Pictures in Colton, California. It is a reminder of the town's rich history and the events that shaped its past. As you hold this postcard in your hands, take a moment to reflect on the stories and mysteries of Chinese Camp. Who were the Chinese miners, and where did they go? What led to the tong war that took place on that fateful day in 1856? The answers may remain unknown, but the history of Chinese Camp lives on through postcards like this one. So, next time you find yourself traveling along Highway 49, make a stop in Chinese Camp and discover the hidden stories of this historic town. Who knows what secrets you may uncover as you explore the remnants of the past. Place a stamp on this postcard and send it to a friend, sharing the history and intrigue of Chinese Camp. Let them embark on their own journey through time as they learn about the town that holds so many untold tales.