The Bow on Tong and Manie Opera Society are two remaining pieces of Lethbridge’s quickly disappearing Chinatown history.
Just this summer, the two buildings were the long time home to Albert Leong, only to be closed one month later due to structural concerns.
“We had some issues, mainly with the Manie Opera House building, it’s in worse condition than the Bow on Tong,” said Ted Stilson, Executive Director of the Downtown BRZ. “But what we had to deal with in the Bow on Tong is Albert Leong, who has resided in that building his entire lifetime, so that was critical to us.”
The urgency to prevent their collapse began with a few local organizations. Now the fight to save Chinatown has spread like wildfire throughout the community.
“They’re probably two of the most important buildings we have, not only in our community but in the province especially Bow on Tong,” added Stilson.
City council has voiced its support towards restoration of the two aging buildings, voting Tuesday to waive rental fees on the Yates Centre for an upcoming fundraiser
“The buildings are important to the history of Lethbridge, and so what we’re doing is a few small things to support those groups that are interested in preserving them,” said Mayor Chris Spearman.
Since the closure in July, only temporary steps have been taken towards repairing the buildings. Both were immediately stabilized but until the money is raised for their full restoration, they’ll stay unfinished.
Council also voted in favor of working towards designating the two buildings as municipal historic resources making them eligible for provincial grants towards the restoration.
“Someone had to come up to the plate and help restore these buildings because once they’re gone, they’re gone,” said Councillor Ryan Parker. “History’s gone.”
Giving Leong a second chance to save his home.
“This is my home. This block is my home,” Leong told Global News in June. “So I’d like it to last here, even after I’m gone.”
The next fundraising event will be Friday, November 22 during Lethbridge’s Bright Lights Festival.
Merchandise from the Bow on Tong store will be sold at the Free Masons building from 5 to 10 p.m., with all proceeds going towards the restoration fund.
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