Su Chou Lien Ancestral Hall Introduction
The Centennial Shrine of Chiayi is the oldest existing shrine in Chiayi City and has served as a venue for ancestral worship and clan reunions for the Su clan in the Greater Chiayi area for over a hundred years. It possesses significant research value regarding the history of clan development and maintains continuous ritual activities, inspiring clan members to trace their roots and reflecting deep cultural significance. There is a saying among the people: "The Su clan of Chiayi occupies half of Jiale City." Members of the Su clan, such as Su Hsiao-teh and Su Yu-chi, have served as district heads in Chiayi and opened the renowned Mei Chi business, closely linked with the political, economic, and cultural development of Chiayi City. To promote respect for ancestors and the clan, this shrine was established early in the Japanese colonial period, evolving from the Su clan temple into a shared shrine for the Su, Chou, and Lian clans. The shrine houses the spirit tablets of the Su and Chou Lian deities, as well as 31 tablets for the Su clan ancestors who achieved the Jinshi degree and were conferred titles, along with a special tablet for the Su clan's lifesaving benefactor, Wang Gong Ancestor. This building exemplifies the renovation of a luxurious residence into a shrine, showcasing traditional Minnan style; the structure is well-preserved, with five main sections arranged in a three-part courtyard format. The main hall is constructed without any nails or iron, featuring exquisite wood carvings and paintings on the door frames. The windows are designed with distinctive openings, with a corridor and a truss roof structure. The eaves below are connected by arched beams, and between each beam and the ridge, there are two sets of brackets, which are relatively rare, with meticulous craftsmanship that holds artistic value. In 1896, the ancestors of the Su clan raised funds to purchase an old house, which was renovated to serve as the Su clan temple. In 1958, it was renamed the Su-Chou-Lian Shrine.
