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 and mastered Su Jiaquan in his home region of Rongchang and went on to pass it down to several generations.

Peng Xiaoxin was recognized as the 23rd generation successor of Su Jiaquan. He transmitted his knowledge to notable practitioners such as Chen Zizhuang, Peng Youqi (family heir), Cheng Butun, Yang Chenganzi (who were all family heirs). The fifth generation included prominent figures like Pang Yinbing, Pang Yinxing, Pang Yinjiu (all family heirs), Li Zhenglun, Cao Yiguang; while the sixth generation consisted of individuals like Pang Zhiyong (family heir), Zhang Guangcai, Xie Xianming.

The defining characteristics of Su Jiaquan include maintaining proper stance with balance between softness and hardness; clear distinction between punches and palms; emphasizing large movements but few leg techniques; relying on close-range combat using body contact for leverage. Techniques are characterized by "six bodies" footwork ("six feet") where legs appear seemingly invisible during attacks similar to those found in dark leg techniques from kicking styles. Footwork often employs "fast steps." The art focuses on fluid combinations involving continuous punching followed by swift strikes that combine fists with elbows for an effective blend of speed and power.

In essence, this ancient martial art has evolved through generations under various skilled masters who have refined its unique features over time while remaining true to its roots.