Upcoming Library Program Examines NJ's First Chinese Community

East Brunswick Public Library hosts the online program "Hervey's Boys: New Jersey's First Chinese Community" with author Neal Stoffers on Wednesday, January 26 at 7:00 pm.

Stoffers gives a presentation of the first known Chinese immigration to New Jersey. Over 172 Chinese immigrant laborers came to work at the Passaic Steam Laundry in present-day North Arlington. At the time, it was the largest commercial laundry facility in the country. These men formed the center of Chinese immigrant life in the New Jersey/New York City area in the region. Retired sea captain James Hervey owned the facility, and its workers became known as Hervey's Boys.

Stoffers is a retired captain from the Newark Fire Department. He earned a B.A. and an M.A. from Seton Hall University, both in Asian Studies. His concentration was Chinese language, history and philosophy. His presentation is based on his Master's thesis and book Hervey's Boys: New Jersey's First Chinese Community, 1870-1886.

This online program is held on Zoom. It is free and to the public. To register, go online to www.ebpl.org/calendar or call the library at 732-390-6767.

This program is co-sponsored by the Newark Public Library, New Brunswick Free Public Library, North Arlington Library and Old Bridge Public Library.