Day 89: Sikh Gurdwara, Stockton, California
📌APIA Every Day (89) -The Stockton Sikh Gurdwara, established in 1912, is the first Sikh house of worship in the United States. Initially founded by the Pacific Coast Khalsa Diwan Society, it quickly became a focal point for religious, social, and political activities among South Asian immigrants. Spearheaded by figures like Jawala Singh and Wasakha Singh, the Gurdwara's origins trace back to a ranch near Stockton, where Punjabi Sikh farmers gathered to pray with the Guru Granth Sahib.
Jawala Singh's involvement in the Gadar Party, a revolutionary movement seeking to end British rule in India, further cemented the Gurdwara's significance. It served as a key supporter of the Ghadar Party, funding initiatives like the first Punjabi-language newspaper in the US, "The Ghadar." Over time, the Gurdwara evolved into a vital hub for Sikh, Muslim, Hindu, and Catholic communities, offering not only religious services but also educational scholarships and advocacy for Indian and Asian citizenship rights. Throughout its history, the Stockton Gurdwara remained committed to education, establishing scholarships and supporting initiatives like the Guru Nanak Khalsa Hostel at UC Berkeley. It nurtured leaders such as Dalip Singh Saund, who made history as the first Asian American, Indian American, and Sikh American to serve in the US House of Representatives.
Today, the Stockton Gurdwara symbolizes the heritage and profound contributions of Sikh Americans, serving as a historical landmark that embodies the Sikh community in the United States.
LEARN MORE:
Pionerring Punjabis Digital Archive: Stockton Gurdwara
Stockton Gurdwara: History of Gurdwara
CA State Legislature: Relative to the 100-year anniversary of the Sikh American
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