Golden Dragon Museum
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Golden Dragon Museum is a museum in the city of Bendigo, Australia dedicated to the Chinese who immigrated to the region and the rich culture they brought with them. Built on the sight of Bendigo's original Chinatown, it is an award winning certified museum.[1]
Contents |
[edit] Origins
Chinese heritage constitutes a significant part of the town of Bendigo's cultural identity. The goldrush saw thousands of Chinese migrate to Bendigo in the latter half of the 19th century. The Chinese formed their own community and began raising money for charities. In the 1870s, the local Chinese were invited to take part in the annual Easter festival. The Bendigo Chinese saw this as a chance to become a part of the community. The elders of the region raised 750 pounds by placing a levy on all Chinese. This money was used to purchase extravagant costumes and regalia. These costumes form the basis of the museum's collection and are well preserved garments, made from silk and gold bullion thread.
[edit] Dragons
The Golden Dragon Museum houses both the oldest and the longest imperial dragons in the world.[citation needed] Sun Loong, the longest imperial dragon, is over one hundred metres long and is brought out every year for the Bendigo Easter Festival. Loong, the oldest imperial dragon, is heritage listed. Thanks to his presence at the parades for federation in 1901 and the centenary of federation in 2001, Loong is an important part of Australian history.
[edit] People
The Golden Dragon Museum contains several displays which portray the success and value of multiculturalism. The museum also contains displays which show the hardships and racism many Chinese faced because of the White Australia Policy at the beginning of the 20th century. Along with displays specific to the experience of Chinese in Australia, the museum hosts many exhibits celebrating the richness and antiquity of greater Chinese culture.
