Fangli Creek Yidu Pavilion Introduction
In the early years, there was no distinct separation between the riverbeds of Fangli Creek and Daan Creek. The Yidu Monument indicated that the water flowing northwest after reaching Liyutan entered the sea via the coastline of Fangli Township, referred to as "Fangli Creek," while the water flowing southwest into Daan Harbor was called "Daan Creek." However, whenever a sudden rain occurred, both Fangli Creek and Daan Creek would frequently flood, causing chaotic water flow downstream where the two rivers intertwined across a stretch of ten miles, making it extremely difficult for pedestrians to cross the river. Local powerful figures often hired people to navigate boats, exploiting the situation to charge exorbitant ferry fees, and travelers who refused were sometimes subjected to violence and robbery, resulting in great suffering for the common people. In the 17th year of the Daoguang era, the then xianzhang (county magistrate) of Tamsui, Lou Yun, sought to eliminate these problems by inviting local gentry to donate to a ferry fund to purchase land for the purpose. The rental income from this land would be used to pay for the ferry expenses, establishing six ferry points at various river crossings in one go. This initiative not only resolved the crossing problem for pedestrians but also significantly contributed to the development of local transportation and the promotion of agricultural reclamation. The inscription on the Yidu Monument states: "Presented by Lou of the Tamsui Sub-prefecture." The center reads: "Official ferry of Fangli Creek," while the right side notes: "Established in the year of Dingyou, Daoguang. Workers were provided meals by the government, allowing travelers to cross freely without any charge. Those who violated this rule shall be strictly punished." The left side states: "Established by Lou Yun of the Tamsui Sub-prefecture." Initially, the Yidu Monument was erected on the banks of Fangli Creek. As transportation gradually developed and the need for the ferry diminished, the monument went missing for a time. It has now been recovered and is currently placed in front of Shun Tian Temple at the ferry pavilion for future generations to remember.
