Jiantan Reservoir Introduction
In Dalong Village, "Jian Tan" was named after the Jian Tan Reservoir, which was established in the 45th year of the Republic of China for the purpose of irrigation and water conservation. Many legends surround the pool, adding an air of mystery and intrigue that has persisted over the years. It is a remarkable place, although not included in alternative folklore compilations, it certainly adds an interesting touch to casual conversations. The origin of the name has two explanations: one is linked to Zheng Chenggong, and the other is connected to Lin Shuangwen. The former relates that over three hundred years ago, Zheng Chenggong led troops to Dalong Village to "subdue the indigenous people." After continuous battles against fierce resistance, he chanced upon a deep pool nearby and lamented his ill fortune in war; in anger, he threw his treasured sword into the pool. The waters surged for seven days and nights before finally calming down, leading to the name "Jian Tan." However, local tales and historical records differ significantly, and only a blurred beauty of speculation remains. The latter tale mentions that in the 51st year of the Qianlong era, Lin Shuangwen raised a rebellion against the Qing dynasty in Changhua, fighting throughout the province, until ultimately defeated and fleeing. In despair by the bridge, he threw his sword into the pool. Another rendition tells that when Lin led his troops past here, the soldiers were parched and he raised his sword, which miraculously caused spring water to gush forth and form the pool, but the treasured sword was lost in it. There are also legends about how to retrieve the sword. One version says that it can only be pulled up with a husk as a rope. There was even someone who used maltose to stick a husk for fishing out the treasure, and indeed the sword surfaced, but a distant voice proclaimed: "That is not a husk, but a maltose rope," and the sword sank again. Although the idea of long-distance communication is absurd, it does ignite the imagination. Another claim states that on the first and fifteenth day of each lunar month, the water in the pool becomes particularly clear, causing the treasured sword to float out, although it sinks again with the passing of time. Villagers have invited each other to verify this legend, but nothing has been found to this day.
