The DeFalla Family collection consists of CHSSC founding documents, papers and artifacts reflecting Chinese American life, collected by the DeFalla family. It is arranged at a series and sub-series level. This collection is important to CHSSC because it contains items regarding its own founding as well as artifacts that tell the story of Chinese American life and showing the connections in Southern California. Available through this collection are glimpses of Chinese American life through the 20th century throughout California, showcasing the movements of families and cultural changes that occurred within those hundred years.

Paul DeFalla was one of the three founders of CHSSC. His family collection provides a look into the lives of Chinese Americans from as early as the late 1800s to the 1980s. As a founder of CHSSC, Paul DeFalla was central to establishing the mission and guidelines of the organization and this collection reflects his commitment to preserving an important part of California history. The bulk of the collection is from the 1970s and it gives a broad view of the life of Chinese Americans in that time, including celebrations in Chinatown, Los Angeles, discrimination in America, and the establishment of CHSSC as a place for community members to preserve their stories.

0.71 Linear Feet 5 Inch Hollinger Box and Legal Size Document Box

This collection is open to researchers and to the public for access. Please contact the Chinese Historical Society of Southern California for more information.