The historic Tam Kung Temple, a beacon of Chinese culture located in Victoria’s Chinatown, is seeking community support to preserve its rich heritage. Mr. Leung, the dedicated temple keeper, follows a rhythmic ritual daily, lighting incense and offering tea while ringing the gong to pay homage to ancestors. With roots tracing back to the 1860s, the temple was founded by a Hakka miner who sought divine protection during his voyage to Canada.
The Hakka community established the Yen Wo Society in 1905 and has lovingly cared for the statue of Tam Kung ever since. Following a tumultuous history marked by fires, the temple stands resilient, having been declared a national historic site. As the oldest Chinese temple in Canada’s oldest Chinatown, the community’s efforts now focus on winning a $50,000 grant from the Next Great Save initiative, a campaign aimed at protecting cherished heritage sites.
Funds from the initiative would be used to enhance accessibility, preserve artifacts, and develop educational programs to strengthen community ties. The temple plans to create a welcoming centre to engage younger generations and a diverse audience with guided tours and cultural exchanges. “It’s important to honour our ancestors and the history of Chinese Canadian settlement,” shared volunteer Gayle Nye.
The competition, open until April 17, showcases twelve projects, two of which are located in B.C., including the historic O’Keefe Ranch. Voting is accessible online worldwide, allowing supporters to cast their vote daily, ensuring this sacred space continues to thrive for future generations.
The Tam Kung Temple in Victoria’s Chinatown is urging the community to vote for a $50,000 grant aimed at enhancing preservation, accessibility, and cultural education. Established in the 1860s, it holds significant Chinese heritage and is Canada’s oldest Chinese temple. Funds would support vital programs and the creation of a reception centre to welcome future generations. The voting process for the Next Great Save initiative is open until April 17.
The call for support in preserving the Tam Kung Temple underscores the importance of cultural heritage within communities. As a historic site that embodies over a century of Chinese Canadian history, the temple’s initiative aims to engage the community and educate future generations. The ongoing competition for funding provides a unique chance for locals and supporters worldwide to contribute towards safeguarding this vital piece of history for years to come.
Original Source: www.peninsulanewsreview.com
