By Karun Yee
Remember you’re never fully dressed without a smile! We all know what you wear gives the first impression. One look can say a thousand words. Clothing can get you a job, or get you thrown out, depending on the circumstance. That is why a person’s appearance and what they are wearing is so important through the ages.
Our fashion show exhibited antique highly embroidered handmade clothing that was a very precious commodity in those old days. Your station in life could be seen at a glance from the scullery maid to the emperor. This private collection of antique clothing came from Sandra Yee, Karun Yee and the Folsom History Museum.
The symbols on the clothing also held great significance to the wearer. Embroidered butterflies meant happiness. Chest badges with birds for civil service ranks and beasts for military officers were shown. Discussion on interesting historical traditions was presented in a slide show developed by me.
CACS Foundation and the Folsom Historical Society presented our 2nd Chinese Fashion Show luncheon on July 21, 2019. The event was a sold out! The main purpose was to help raise funds and regional recognition of the many contributions of the Folsom Chinese. At one time there were over 2,500 Chinese living in Folsom until the 1908 fire destroyed Chinatown. Before and after the building of the Transcontinental Railroad, the Chinese were able to earn a living in the area working the levees, agricultural work, fishing and mining activities, and businessmen and women. Because of the immense interest in the 150th Anniversary Transcontinental Rail Road Celebration, it appropriate to bring focus to the Chinese in the area. The Folsom History Museum opened their Chinese Museum exhibit in June.
Our event was an opportunity to network with old and new friends from different backgrounds and organizations. It was designed to be fun, educational, entertaining, and of course, enjoying great Chinese food all for a worthy cause.
All this could not happen with out a tremendous amount of work from both organizations. I want to personally thank: Jeff Ferreira, Ann Rhea, and staff; Karla, Kaitlyn, Kathleen, Jennifer, Roberta and Barbara. Also, Franc, Doug, David, Merlayna, Corliss, Betty, John, Greg, Kathy L. Ann D., Elizabeth N. Our lovely models; Brenda Fong, Joyce Eng, Aubrie Fong, Brigid Velayas, Olivia Stayi, Farra Bracht, Nancy Yee, Joanna Littau, Hannelore Whetstone, and Cathy Wei. It was a labor of love!