Su-Zhou Lian Clan Ancestral Hall Introduction
The Chiayi Hundred-Year Ancestral Hall is the oldest existing ancestral hall in Chiayi City. Serving as a place for ancestral worship and clan reunion for the Su family in the Greater Chiayi area, it has a history of over a hundred years and holds research value for the development of the clan. It maintains continuous ritual activities that inspire clan members to reflect on their roots, carrying profound cultural significance. There is a saying in the community: "The Su family of Chiayi occupies half of the city." The Su family members Su Hsiao-te and Su Yu-chi formerly served as district heads of Chiayi and established the Mei-chi business, gaining considerable fame and having close ties to the political, economic, and cultural development of Chiayi City. To promote respect for ancestors and the clan, this ancestral hall was established at the beginning of the Japanese colonial period and evolved from the Su family shrine into a common ancestral hall for the Su, Chou, and Lien families. Inside the hall, there are altars for the deities of the Su, Chou, and Lien families, as well as 31 altars for the ancestors of the Su family who achieved scholarly degrees and were honored with titles, alongside a special altar for the benevolent ancestor Gong-ong of the Su family. This building is an example of a luxurious residence remodeled into an ancestral hall, embodying traditional Minnan style. The structure is well preserved, consisting of five bays and a three-part courtyard, without using a single nail or iron in the main hall. The wooden carvings and colorful paintings of the door beams are exquisite, and the windows have uniquely designed openings. The corridor features a cross-braced roof, with arched beams pulling against each other between the beams and columns, creating unusual sets of douzhuo grass in each bay, which are quite rare. The craftsmanship is detailed and delicate, possessing artistic value. Historical Encyclopedia: In 1896, the ancestor of the Su family raised funds to purchase a second-hand house, which was renovated to serve as the Su family shrine. In 1958, it was renamed the Su-Chou-Lien Ancestral Hall.
