Su Zhou Lian Ancestral Hall Introduction
The Chiayi One-Hundred-Year Shrine is the oldest existing shrine established in Chiayi City. It serves as a venue for ancestral worship and family gatherings of the Su clan in the Greater Chiayi area and has a history of over a century, which holds research value for the development of the clan. The shrine maintains rituals year-round, inspiring clan members to trace their roots, carrying profound cultural significance. There is a saying in the community: "Half of Chiayi City belongs to the Su clan." Clan members Su Hsiao-te and Su Yu-chi once served as directors of Chiayi and established Mei Chi Merchant Shop, which gained considerable fame and is closely related to the political, economic, and cultural development of Chiayi City. To promote respect for ancestors and clan, this shrine was established at the beginning of Japanese rule and evolved from the Su family temple to a common shrine for the Su, Chou, and Lien clans. The shrine enshrines the deities of Su, Chou, and Lien along with 31 figures of the Su clan's ancestors who attained the degree of Jinshi and received nobility titles, as well as a special deity for the Su clan’s benefactor, the ancestor Wang Gong. This building is a prime example of a luxurious residence converted into a shrine, featuring traditional Minnan architectural style, well-preserved structure, a five-bay layout, and a three-part courtyard without the use of nails or iron in the central hall. The wood carvings and paintings on the door frame are exquisite, with uniquely designed wooden windows. The corridor and braced frame structure are well-crafted, with curved beams interlocking beneath the eaves, and two sets of douzong grass created in each bay, which is relatively rare. The craftsmanship is delicate and refined, possessing artistic value. Historical Fact: In 1896, the ancestors of the Su clan raised funds to purchase a second-hand house, which was renovated to serve as the Su family temple, and in 1958, it was renamed the Su-Chou-Lien Shrine.
