-
Sep 14, 2007 7:25 pm US/Pacific
-
Digg |
Facebook |
E-mail
|
Print
One Tank Trips: Oroville Temple
by John Iander
(CBS13)
In the 1860's as many as 10,000 Chinese came to California to seek what so many others wanted.
"The gold is what they came for. There was gold in the hills and the rivers here. They came to the country to be a rich man and go back to their country wealthy. They really didn't come here to stay, but while they were living over here they did live in a cultural unit here," said Patti Sprecher, Temple Guide.
The Emperor and Empress of China sent money and this ceremonial good luck urn to establish the temple in 1863 in Oroville. Sprecher showed me through the temple and the ritual of the josh sticks. Shake your lucky stick out of the jar, and read the number.
"This would indicate the number of your fortune. That number corresponds with one of these fortunes," said Sprecher.
The temple is regal and ornate with spectacular carvings and ceremonial wares. The peacock feathers represent the eye of the Emperor. Over the years, display rooms have been added to house the temple's huge collection of clothing, furniture and household items. Many donated by local Chinese families.
A four seasons courtyard is also part of the temple experience. This is all about finding peace and comfort in life. From the koi fish in the pond, to the bamboo forest, to the hypnotic song of falling water, the garden filters the noise and stress of daily life.
Each of the plants and trees here originated in China. Today, the temple is open to all visitors. It's so popular, a new display wing is being added.
Today many visitors actually come to Oroville from China to see where their ancestors once lived, worked and worshiped. The temple is now operated by the City of Oroville and is open to the public every day.
(© MMVII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)