Zhu Hai, Bus Tour of the City - 2

The center arch was built in 1886 at the request of the Emperor to honor Chen Fang who donated 3,000 tael of silver for the relief of his fellow citizens left homeless after a severe flood. Chen was living in Hawaii at the time he heard the news. The left archway was built in 1891 to honor Chen Fang's son, Chen Long. The arch on the right was destroyed by the Red Guards during the Cultural Revolution so it is not known who it honored. When the Red Guards attempted to destroy the other two Archways, all the villagers in Meixi sat around them and their action prevented the Archways from being totally destroyed.


Will have to go back after I learn Chinese to find out who lived in these homes next to the Arches. I believe Chen Fang built them and his children lived in them, to the left (out of the picture) is the home we toured where Chen Fang and his wife lived.


Chen's courtyard.


Inside the Flower Building, the back hall, where it was used as a bedroom for he and his wife. It was called the Flower Building because it was decorated with delicate floral carvings. The hall, doors, windows, ceiling and even the wall were all decorated with wonderful carvings.


Items from his bedroom.


Household items, including a child's desk and stroller.


Family and household items. The building consisted of a front hall, veranda, back hall, dancing hall and back yard.


The Front Hall was used for family gatherings, entertaining customers and friends, as well as for business meetings. The building was used as a back-up hospital by Japanese army during its occupation. Today it displays items used by Chen's first wife.