Heritage Mah Jongg Beach Towel - The Sparrow Tile
Heritage Mah Jongg Beach Towel - The Sparrow Tile
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Did tiles reach San Francisco before their makers were welcome? In effect, yes. Sets came through the Golden Gate in the 1920s, while American law barred new Chinese immigrants.
A beach towel from the far side of the Pacific. The big One Bam looks out from the sand, and it gives you something to think about while the kids dig, and a good thing to dry off with after the first swim.
W.A. Hammond's San Francisco company was formed by May 1922. In October 1923, the ship President Lincoln arrived with a reported 170 tons of sets. Second-generation Chinese Americans found work teaching the game. It also eased long detentions at Angel Island.
The irony is hard to miss. The game was marketed as ancient and exotic just as the 1924 Immigration Act shut out the people it came from. Friends also played in a 1930s Chinatown apartment, away from all that. Remember, when you admire an old set, that its tiles traveled more easily than its makers.
Printed polyester front and a white looped cotton reverse, in two sizes, 30 by 60 and 36 by 72 inches. Print appears on the front only. Wash gently in cold water, then hang it or use low heat. No bleach, please. Like everything in our shop, this one means profits support hunger relief.
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Product FAQs
How does your sizing work?
Because items are made to order, we can’t accept returns for sizing or color choices. We do accept returns for defects, misprints, or shipping damage. Please review the detailed photos and descriptions before purchasing. Women’s fitted tees run small; if you prefer a looser fit, consider sizing up.
How do I send gifts?
All items ship without prices and include a simple packing slip for easy gifting. Enter the recipient’s shipping address and your billing address at checkout. Use your contact info to receive tracking updates. Orders typically arrive within 6–11 business days—please allow extra time for time-sensitive gifts.
How do I care for my item?
For apparel: wash cold, inside-out, with like colors; avoid bleach and high heat; tumble dry low or hang dry. For embroidery, iron inside-out to protect the stitching. See specific care instructions in product descriptions and also follow general best practices in caring for your items for long term enjoyment.
How are items made and when will they arrive?
We make each item on demand using premium blanks, embroidery, and soft-hand prints. Production usually takes 2–5 business days (excluding weekends and holidays). You’ll receive tracking once shipped. We currently ship to U.S. addresses via USPS, UPS, or FedEx. Most orders arrive within 6-12 business days.
What’s the return/exchange policy?
We accept returns for defects, misprints, or damage on arrival. Report issues within 30 days with photos and your order number, and we’ll replace or refund. Size or color changes aren’t supported after purchase, so please consult size charts before ordering if you are at all unsure.
Who are we?
Merlin Classics is a volunteer-run, AI-assisted apparel project celebrating timeless local style. Every item is made to order, and profits (revenue minus external product/marketing cost) support hunger-relief programs in the communities our collections spotlight. Classic looks, real local impact—every purchase helps.