Editing Chinatown (section)

== History ==

=== Origins ===

Philadelphia's Chinatown was established in the '''1870s''' when Chinese immigrants, many of whom had worked on the transcontinental railroad, settled in the area around 9th and Race Streets. The first business was a laundry opened by Lee Fong in 1871.

=== Growth ===

The neighborhood grew slowly through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, concentrated around Race Street. Chinese Exclusion Acts limited immigration, keeping the community small. After exclusion was repealed in 1943, and particularly after the Immigration Act of 1965, the neighborhood expanded significantly.

=== Threats and Resilience ===

Chinatown has repeatedly faced development pressures:

* '''Vine Street Expressway (1980s):''' The elevated highway (later covered) destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses, bisecting the neighborhood
* '''Convention Center Expansion (1990s):''' Required demolition of some Chinatown properties
* '''Gallery/Fashion District:''' Development encroached on southern edge
* '''Proposed Arena (2020s):''' Controversial proposal to build a 76ers arena in Chinatown drew significant community opposition

Despite these challenges, the community has organized effectively to preserve the neighborhood's character and cultural significance.