Chinese nationals living overseas have long had a mixed reputation back home. So Tan Kah Kee (Chén Jiāgēng, 陈嘉庚), known as the "Henry Ford of Asia," sought to offer a glimpse to those back in the Middle Kingdom of those abroad in the Overseas Chinese Museum (Huáqiáo Bówùguǎn, 华侨博物馆). Established in 1956, the museum documents the lives of Chinese emigrants over the centuries.

The museum's 3 halls feature over 7,000 exhibits including pottery, bronze wares, paintings and calligraphy, hundreds of plant and animal specimens, and even a couple of mummies which were found in Xinjiang Province.

Born in 1874, Tan went to Singapore at age 16 to join his father's business and later built his business empire. With his wealth, he financially supported schools in Singapore and Fujian, including the University of Xiamen, and backed Chinese efforts and relief organizations during the Second Sino-Japanese War.

Once the most influential member of the Chinese community in Singapore, Tan fell out of favor due to his support for the Communist Party in China during the Chinese Civil War. He later returned to China.

Fujian guide | Xiamen guide | Xiamen attractions | Xiamen flights
Xiamen hotels | Xiamen on the China Travel Blog