Joss House

josshouse: Joss House

This building houses a replica of a Chinese temple. It is designed to pay tribute to the Chinese community, which has been a contributing factor in Bakersfield's growth since its establishment over a century ago.

The room on the right represents a shrine with three altars of worship. The temple was not used for meetings or services, as the Chinese worship individually. The supplicants lit the candles, said prayers and performed rites themselves, assisted by a priest, if there was one available. Other worshippers awaited their turn in an adjoining room.

The goddess enshrined in the center of the main altar is Kwan Yin or Goddess of Mercy. She is the patron goddess of mothers and children. She sits on a lotus flower, the symbol of purity.

The figure on the left is "Tien Hou" or Empress of Heaven. She is the female counterpart of Neptune and is the patroness of sailors and travelers on the sea. It is believed that the Chinese immigrants enthroned her in the temple out of gratitude for her protection when they traveled safely over the ocean to come to California.

The god on the right is "Hua Tíao," God of Medicine, to whom the Chinese prayed during time of illness. The bamboo tube holds Oracle Sticks, which are used for divination. The Oracle Book would reveal the prescription of certain herbs, which would effect a cure for the sick patient.

HISTORY:
This building was donated to the Kern County Museum in 1979 by Frank Stanton. The building was moved to the museum by the Kern County Museum Alliance. The Kern County Historical Society provided funding for the restoration materials. This building was dedicated in 1980.


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