Xinzhuang Dongzhamen Introduction
The Dongzhamen (East Stockade Gate) in New Taipei City is located in Fengtian Village, Neipu Township, and is also known as Huai Zhong Gate. It is now listed as a national third-class historic site. During the Qing Dynasty, particularly in the Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong periods, many Hakka immigrants from Guangdong came to the Pingtung area to develop land. As outsiders, they often clashed with the Minnan people and indigenous groups. To avoid disturbances and delineate boundaries with other villages, four stockade gates — east, west, south, and north — were constructed around New Taipei City for defensive purposes. However, after several hundred years of changes, only the East Stockade Gate remains today. Its existence has become a symbol of respect and remembrance for the ancestors among the residents of New Taipei City. The East Stockade Gate is primarily constructed of stone and clay. It stands about 7 meters tall, approximately 6.5 meters wide, and about 1.2 meters thick, covering an area of over 6 pings. Brick walls were built on either side of the gate for structural support. The inner side of the gate features mortise holes for door panels, with a roof designed in a horizontal saddle shape and adorned with red tiles. In front of the eastern side of the gate, a residential wall preserves a granite commemorative stone that was carved during the Guangxu period, marking the repair of the stockade gate. Although the inscription on the stone has become worn and unclear, it remains a valuable artifact. In the center of the gate's lintel hangs a plaque inscribed with "Huai Zhong," flanked by symmetrical circular gun decorations. The origin of this plaque is rooted in history. In the 60th year of the Kangxi reign, the "Zhu Yigui Incident" occurred, which disrupted the lives of the local people. In response, the residents of New Taipei City organized volunteer soldiers to defend their hometown. After the incident concluded, the Qing Dynasty awarded titles, designating the Hakka people as "Huai Zhong," which is why the East Stockade Gate is also referred to as "Huai Zhong Gate."
