Luangou Rimao Shop Introduction
During the Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty, Lugang had eight guilds, where "guild" refers to today's commercial associations. Rimaohang, also known as "Rimia", was the largest business among the guilds in Lugang and was the richest in Lugang from the Qianlong era until the 20th year of the Daoguang era (1840). The Lin family of Rimaohang, being the foremost of the eight guilds, was known for their philanthropy. In the 42nd year of the Qianlong era (1777), they donated funds to establish the Lugang charitable organization "Jingyi Garden," which engaged in various charitable works such as collecting stray papers, establishing righteous burial sites, gathering remains, and repairing bridges, greatly benefiting the community and becoming the largest charitable organization of its time. Additionally, Rimaohang participated in local affairs such as the relocation of Longshan Temple in Lugang in the 51st year of the Qianlong era (1786) and the new construction of Tianhou Temple (now Xinzumiao) in the 52nd year of the Qianlong era (1787). The contributions and deeds of Rimaohang to Lugang are still celebrated and remembered today.
Ri Mao Hsing
The architectural structure of Rimao Hall consists of three entrances and two halls, with only the entrance hall and main hall remaining. The ground in front of Rimao Hall is paved with Quanzhou stone slabs, and there are several stone steps in the square, serving as the stage stones for performances held during the ritual offerings in earlier times. In 1967 (the 56th year of the Republic of China), Rimao Hall underwent renovations, with the main hall painted by craftsman Shi Jinyi from Lugang, and more paintings were carried out by Chen Ying from Hemwei. Calligrapher Ouyang Jinhua created works on-site, leaving behind precious ink inscriptions. In 2000 (the 89th year of the Republic of China), Rimao Hall was designated as a county historic site, and in 2003 (the 92nd year of the Republic of China), restoration of the historic site was carried out, which was completed in December 2005 (the 94th year of the Republic of China).
