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The History of the Chinese Center on Long Island
The Chinese Center on Long Island was formed in 1960 as a cultural organization to study, disseminate and perpetuate the best of Chinese culture and traditions. The founders, John Huang, Dun Li, George Lee, and Pete Louie laid the foundation for this organization, where Chinese heritage and language could be studied and preserved. On April 13, 1962, the Chinese Center on Long Island became a non-profit corporation and received its charter from the New York Secretary of State. From this first step the Chinese Center was on its way.
On May 14, 1962, the Center presented a classical Chinese opera at the Freeport High School. The New York Times gave a favorable mention of the opera which prompted Mr. Robinson Callen from New York City to donate a 28 room mansion on five acres of land located in Old Westbury for use as our Center.
Due to the zoning laws and the limitations of the architectural layout of the mansion, it was not suitable to hold meetings and activities there. Therefore, a committee was formed to search for a new location. A building of 2,400 square feet was found in West Hempstead and acquired in March 1967. Members provided monetary pledges for the building fund. The mortgage was paid in full and the Center had a celebration to "burn" the mortgage in 1972. This building has become the home of the Chinese Center on Long Island for the last 31 years.
The founders envisioned a center distinguished by its Chinese architectural facade and with facilities consisting of a museum, art gallery, an assembly-social hall, a library, a meditation area and gardens. Our present building does not have all these desired features, but over the years, much has been accomplished toward establishing the cultural, educational, and social objectives.
The Center continues to provide cultural exchange in art literature, philosophy, drama, music, history, Chinese languages, Lion Troupe, and traditional Chinese dance. Besides cultural programs, the Center has speakers addressing contemporary issues in the areas of health science, parenting, law, financial and tax planning.
In looking back, the Center has sponsored a wide variety of programs and events. This explains how it has been able to thrive through new friends and members. Through the years, many dedicated members have volunteered their time and talents to keep the Center strong and to maintain the legacy handed down by its founders. The Center’s continued success is dependent upon the active participation and dedication of its members, old and new.
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