Daria Loy-Goto has spent over thirty years in law, but she fondly recalls her childhood job at her father’s business in Oregon. When Daria was just five or six, her dad had her operating a conveyor belt at the Kubla Khan food factory. She jokingly remarked, “Great, now I’m gonna have to do this for the rest of my life,” leaving a lasting impression on her father.
Percy Loy co-founded Kubla Khan, a once-popular frozen food brand that changed how many Americans experienced Asian cuisine. At its height, the Portland plant produced thousands of frozen meals like chicken fried rice and sukiyaki, introducing these flavors to countless households.
Kubla Khan’s legacy lives on in places like the Oregon Historical Society and the Smithsonian, where the brand’s packaging and records are preserved.
Percy Loy was born in 1920 in Vancouver, Washington. His father, Kong Loy, an immigrant from China, built a successful dairy business despite facing racism at the time. Kong’s success in the dairy industry opened doors for Percy, who later served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Influenced by his experiences, Percy shifted gears after the war and dove into the food industry. He and his brother-in-law started Kubla Khan in a restaurant basement in 1950.
Initially, the company operated as a takeout service specializing in authentic Asian dishes. As demand grew, they transitioned into frozen meals. By the 1950s, Kubla Khan became a household name, supplying big grocery chains like Safeway and Fred Meyer. A survey from 1957 showed that 4.5% of households chose Kubla Khan frozen meals over competitors like Swanson and Birds Eye.
Kubla Khan’s marketing highlighted its authentic flavors, and it was a common sight on billboards in the Pacific Northwest. The brand even made appearances on local television shows, gaining a loyal customer base.
Percy Loy was not just a visionary in frozen foods; he was active in the industry, taking leadership roles in various food councils. His daughter noted that he played a pivotal role in expanding Oregon’s frozen food sector, ensuring diverse culinary options were accessible to everyone.
His influence reached far beyond business. He actively supported trade initiatives and pushed for better infrastructure for refrigerated transport. His efforts helped create partnerships, such as the sister-state relationship between Oregon and Fujian province in China.
Even in education, Percy was dedicated. He served on advisory councils for several universities, ensuring that future generations would have the opportunity to pursue higher education. Daria remembers her father’s commitment and how he showed up for significant moments in their lives, despite his busy schedule.
Today, Daria sees her father as a lifelong learner who fought for opportunities for others. His legacy is a mix of entrepreneurship, political engagement, and community support that continues to leave an impact.
In a recent survey, a significant increase in interest in Asian cuisine was noted across American households, highlighting the lasting effect of pioneers like Percy Loy. Social media trends show a growing appreciation for authentic culinary experiences, further cementing the importance of accessibility to diverse foods.
To learn more about Chinese American history and contributions in Oregon, check out recent investigations showcasing the connection to historic ranches and profiles of trailblazing individuals like Hazel Ying Lee, the first Chinese American woman in the military.
Source link
Asian-American | Oregon Experience | Oregon | History | Business | Vancouver | Washington
