CHENGDU, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Archives and images of James Endicott, a renowned Canadian peace advocate, were unveiled to the public for the first time on Monday in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province, showcasing the profound friendship between him and the Chinese people.
This batch of precious historical materials, recently donated by the Endicott family, is on display at an exhibition at the Sichuan provincial archives. It will run until July 2026.
The exhibition features over 360 meticulously selected archival documents, photographs, materials, and physical objects. It vividly portrays the historical panorama of Sichuan people's heroic resistance during the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, as well as the region's evolution from a crucial rear support area to a hinterland region of strategic importance. The display includes photographs, song collections, and other artifacts from the Endicott family.
Widely known by his Chinese name Wen Youzhang, Endicott was born in Leshan City, Sichuan, in 1898. He contributed greatly and bravely to the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and devoted to promoting friendship between China and Canada as well as the cause of peace.
For many years, he introduced New China to the outside world and shared the achievements of the Communist Party of China and the victory of the Chinese revolution with the people of North America. In 1965, he was awarded the title "Envoy of People's Friendship" by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries.
After Endicott passed away in 1993, following his wishes, part of his ashes were brought from Canada to Leshan and scattered across the Dadu River.
This year, with the support and assistance of the Chinese Consulate General in Toronto, the Endicott family sorted through a vast collection of historical artifacts left by James Endicott that document stories about Canada and China. The materials were officially crated and dispatched in July to his birthplace, Leshan.
From Sept. 4 to 6, two granddaughters of James Endicott visited Leshan and donated the first batch of historical materials to the Leshan municipal archives. During their stay in Leshan, they also visited James Endicott's former residence and the Leshan museum to learn more about their grandfather's life and legacy.
"Our grandfather was born in China and cherished this land deeply. Leshan will always be our second hometown," said Marion Endicott, a granddaughter of James Endicott. "We believe donating these historical materials to Leshan is particularly meaningful, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War."
Marion Endicott added that this marks her fourth visit to Leshan, with each journey deepening her connection to this city. With future trips to Leshan in mind, she hopes this donation will act as a catalyst for activities like exhibitions, academic seminars, and scholar exchanges, ultimately building a bridge for communication between China and Canada.
According to local authorities, the 69 crates of historical materials include not only numerous books about China, but also Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) artifacts used by family members during their residence in China, precious gifts and handicrafts collected during their subsequent visits across the country, as well as publications urging Canadians to understand and support China.
To properly receive this collection of historical materials, the Leshan municipal archives has designated a separate preservation area within its vaults and formed a special team comprising archivists, cultural relic experts, and professional translators. ■
