苏家拳的传奇历史可以追溯到明朝正德年间（大约公元1506年），由一位杰出的武术家舒裁缝在河南创造。他的弟子苏金财和苏金祥将这门拳法带到了四川，并经过长时间的刻苦训练和不断改进， eventually establishing the distinctive style of Su Jiaquan. By the end of the Qing dynasty, a renowned martial artist named Peng Xiaoxin, also known as Peng Shui Lao Liu, learned Su Jiaquan in his hometown of Rongchang and later became a celebrated instructor in the region. He was designated as the 23rd generation master of Su Jiaquan and passed on his knowledge to several notable successors including Chen Zizhuang, Peng Youqi, Cheng Bucun, Yang Chengzhi and others.

These masters continued to refine and develop Su Jiaquan over generations. The 25th generation saw prominent practitioners such as Peng Yinbing, Peng Yinxi, Peng Yinquan (all family descendants), Li Zhenglun and Cao Yiguang take up the mantle. They further transmitted their expertise to members of the 26th generation like Peng Zhiyong (family descendant), Zhang Guangcai and Xie Xiangguang.

Su Jiaquan's unique characteristics include maintaining a central stance with precise punches and palms; emphasizing large movements while using fewer leg techniques; relying on close-range combat with entwining bodywork; employing subtle footwork that often leaves opponents guessing about incoming attacks. Its punching style prioritizes reverse hooks rather than straightforward punches while its palm techniques focus on slapping motions. Footwork is centered around "six stances" for upper body movement and "six steps" for lower body movement – an approach dubbed "hidden legs." Techniques emphasize rapid-fire combinations with connected punches and elbow strikes while incorporating swift footwork that seamlessly integrates all six limbs into each move.

The evolution of Su Jiaquan showcases its adaptability through generations as it has evolved from humble beginnings in rural China into an esteemed martial art practiced by many today.