1877 Silk Retirement Gift to S.F. Chief of Police Henry Ellis from the Chinese Benevolent SocietyThe Chinese Mutual Benevolent Society, as written on this framed silk gift to San Francisco Chief of Police Henry T. Ellis, was more often historically referred to as the ‘Consolidated Benevolent Association.’ It functioned as a support group for Chinese immigrants, and helped them as new arrivals in their fight against discrimination. The group was formed after the gold rush in the late 19th century, making this a particularly early document for the group. The San Francisco branch was known as the ‘Chinese Six Companies.’In this gift to Chief Ellis, one of the most notable passages states,“…For the promptness displayed by you in protecting our property from the threatened assaults of evil disposed persons, is fresh in our memories. Your efforts to protect our people on all occasions, awakens our gratitude. For all this, we address this memorial to you, thanking you for all these kindnesses, and hoping you may live long to enjoy the confidence, good will, and a esteem of all classes, as well as that of the Chinese residents.”The document on silk is then signed in print by six prominent members of the mutual benevolent society.Dimensions: 26” x 19.5” framed. 24” x 17” silk mounted on board.Pickup & Shipping: Free Sacramento pickup. Shipping via FedEx within the continental U.S. for $85 + 1.5% insurance (unless waived in writing). Combined lot shipping available. Very Good/Excellent. Not examined out of frame. Top left corner of frame backing is loose