Where is the Chinatown Friendship Archway in Washington D.C.? Distinctly Chinese Places
Washington D.C.'s Chinatown was originally located near Pennsylvania Avenue. In 1931, the government seized the land to build the Federal Triangle and other federal projects, forcing the community to scatter. A new Chinatown emerged along H Street NW between 5th and 7th Streets in the District of Columbia despite resistance from some local businesses and landowners. The Friendship Archway was brought to life by Alfred Liu, an architect and longtime champion of Chinatown. Liu also designed Wah Luck House, an apartment building providing housing for elderly residents. Born in Taiwan, Liu moved to the United States as a teenager and became deeply involved in advocating for Chinatown’s growth and cultural presence as Chairman of the Chinatown Development Corporation. His connection to the community is reflected in every detail of the archway’s design. A local Washington, D.C. site, Greater Greater Washington, chronicles the building and refurbishing of the F...