View of Summit Camp with China Wall and tunnel openings in the background. (Photograph by R. Scott Baxter, Sept. 2021)
NEVADA CITY, Calif. (Dec. 17, 2024) — Summit Camp has been designated a National Historic Landmark in recognition of the property’s national significance in the history of the United States. Located on the Tahoe National Forest at Donner Pass, Summit Camp includes the archeological remains of the largest and longest occupied Chinese railroad construction camp on the transcontinental railroad (1865-1869). It is also an influential research site in the emergence of Chinese diaspora studies in the field of historical archaeology in the mid-20th century.
“The importance of preserving and recognizing our cultural heritage cannot be overstated,” said Heather Noel, acting Tahoe National Forest supervisor. “Summit Camp is an exceptional representation of the history of Chinese laborers and their contributions towards construction of the first continental railroad in the United States, the Central Pacific Railroad and the pivotal role this network played in the economic development of our nation.”
Between 1865 and 1869, hundreds of Chinese workers lived at Summit Camp, close to where tunnels and a large rock retaining walls were being blasted, carved and constructed through the Sierra Nevada mountains. Archeological studies at this site have provided insights into what life was like for Chinese construction workers building the railroad.
Collaboration towards identifying restoration and educational opportunities for Summit Camp are in the early stages of planning between the 1882 Foundation, local advocational groups and the Tahoe National Forest. The forest understands the need to enhance visitor experience as the area receives high levels of visitation given the historic notoriety of the site and recreation opportunities in the area.
National Historic Landmarks are historic properties that illustrate the heritage of the United States. The over 2,600 NHLs found in the U.S. today come in many forms: historic buildings, sites, structures, objects and districts. Each landmark represents an outstanding aspect of American history and culture.
NEVADA CITY, Calif. (Dec. 17, 2024) — Summit Camp has been designated a National Historic Landmark in recognition of the property’s national significance in the history of the United States. Located on the Tahoe National Forest at Donner Pass, Summit Camp includes the archeological remains of the largest and longest occupied Chinese railroad construction camp on the transcontinental railroad (1865-1869). It is also an influential research site in the emergence of Chinese diaspora studies in the field of historical archaeology in the mid-20th century.
“The importance of preserving and recognizing our cultural heritage cannot be overstated,” said Heather Noel, acting Tahoe National Forest supervisor. “Summit Camp is an exceptional representation of the history of Chinese laborers and their contributions towards construction of the first continental railroad in the United States, the Central Pacific Railroad and the pivotal role this network played in the economic development of our nation.”
Between 1865 and 1869, hundreds of Chinese workers lived at Summit Camp, close to where tunnels and a large rock retaining walls were being blasted, carved and constructed through the Sierra Nevada mountains. Archeological studies at this site have provided insights into what life was like for Chinese construction workers building the railroad.
Collaboration towards identifying restoration and educational opportunities for Summit Camp are in the early stages of planning between the 1882 Foundation, local advocational groups and the Tahoe National Forest. The forest understands the need to enhance visitor experience as the area receives high levels of visitation given the historic notoriety of the site and recreation opportunities in the area.
National Historic Landmarks are historic properties that illustrate the heritage of the United States. The over 2,600 NHLs found in the U.S. today come in many forms: historic buildings, sites, structures, objects and districts. Each landmark represents an outstanding aspect of American history and culture.
Camp near Summit Tunnel with Mount King in the distance.
Laborers and rocks near the opening of Summit Tunnel.
