2026/03/25
On March 10, 2026, Los Angeles Bing Kong Tong (LABKT) officially donated a century-old historical artifact—a safe known in Cantonese as “Jiawen”—to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles (TECO-LA). Through this honorable act, LABKT demonstrates its commitment to the preservation of historical artifacts and commemorates the vital role played by the Southern California overseas Chinese community in the founding of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the revolutionary movement.
On behalf of TECO-LA, Director General Amino C. Y. Chi received the donation during its ceremony. Dr. Judy Chu, a member of the United States Congress, was also invited to witness this donation. Director General Chi expressed his sincere appreciation to LABKT for its generous contribution of this century-old relic. He noted that, as TECO-LA celebrates the first anniversary of its relocation to the new 4401 building, it is especially meaningful to accept this historically significant artifact, which stands as a testament to the support given by the Los Angeles overseas Chinese community to Dr. Sun Yat-sen in his revolutionary efforts to establish the Republic of China (Taiwan).
The safe was manufactured in the late nineteenth century by the renowned American anti-theft safe maker MacNeale & Urban Company, with production dating between 1855 and 1903. It is a wheeled, portable floor safe measuring 21 inches (depth × width) by 25 inches (height), constructed with approximately three-inch-thick high-strength steel walls and weighing about 300 pounds. At the time, its value ranged from approximately US$1,200 to US$1,500. According to LABKT, the safe was used to store revolutionary donations and military bonds, and today remains as one of LABKT’s most representative and treasured historical artifacts.
Historical records indicate that Dr. Sun visited Los Angeles four times—in 1904, 1905, 1910, and 1911. During these visits, members of LABKT offered unwavering support, assisting with public speeches, organizing fundraising banquets, and actively soliciting donations. All funds raised were carefully safeguarded by LABKT before being delivered to revolutionary headquarters. Some members even personally escorted funds back to China, making selfless and distinguished contributions to the revolutionary cause.
Records further show that, in addition to strong backing from the local Chinese community, Dr. Sun also received support from American allies, including General Homer Lea, his aide Ansel O’Banion, and Charles B. Booth, then Mayor of South Pasadena, who provided financial assistance, protection, and military training.
To enhance public understanding of this important chapter of history, the organizers have also prepared a special itinerary map documenting Dr. Sun’s four visits to Los Angeles for historical reference and commemoration.
“We extend heartfelt gratitude to Director General Amino C. Y. Chi of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles for his dedication to preserving historical artifacts, which inspired this generous donation. On the occasion of the first anniversary of the Office’s relocation, LABKT proudly donates this meaningful relic as a symbol of overseas Chinese heritage and historical continuity, ensuring its preservation for public appreciation,” stated LABKT.
LABKT emphasized that this donation is not only a tribute to history, but also a commitment to ensuring that future generations gain a deeper understanding of the contributions made by overseas Chinese to the nation’s revitalization. LABKT will continue to promote the preservation of community history and cultural heritage, uphold Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s principles of the “Three Principles of the People—Nationalism, Democracy, and People’s Livelihood” and the ideal of “The World Belongs to All,” and carry forward the enduring spirit of loyalty, righteousness, perseverance, and dedication exemplified by its forebears.
