Tom Ley in Holland’s 1886 Directory

Chinese laundries were common in the 1800s because of a series of discriminatory practices. During the 1840s, many hopeful men came from China to make their fortunes during the Gold Rush. As the boom fizzled out, however, large numbers of unemployed men of all races were left competing for too-few jobs. Growing conflicts led to anti-Chinese policies, including an 1875 law that prevented Chinese women from entering the country. In 1902, all Chinese residents were required to be registered and carry photo IDs.

Tom Ley has been difficult to trace, especially since it’s highly doubtful that his name was really Tom. No people recorded in the 1880 census are listed as “Chinese” and a fire destroyed most of the 1890 census. A quick perusal of the cemeteries in the area didn’t turn up any Leys either. 

Ley’s “first-class laundry” seems to have operated for decades on Water Street before moving to Jefferson Avenue in 1907. Since the first location was down the street from the Pre-Emption House, those are probably glimpses of the shop in old photos. In 1916, the property under the laundry and a neighboring cobbler’s shop was purchased by the Naperville Masonic Temple Association. The temple building erected there is still in use today and houses the Naperville Running Company on the first floor. 

Other than these few references, history about these men has been hard to find. An article in a 1913 issue of The Naperville Clarion thanks “the Chinaman on Jefferson Avenue for his grand display of fireworks which is so freely given every year,” which probably refers to Charles Ong Lung or maybe Sam Lung, judging by the date. Sam Lung is also listed in the 1910 census. 

 

While there may not be records enough to trace, it’s important to do whatever is possible for a more complete understanding of our community’s past, however hard to face. Our history may not be particularly pretty at times, but you know what they say about being doomed to ugly repetition if we don’t learn the first time.