Huwei Mackay Memorial Hospital Introduction
The Huwei Mackay Memorial Hospital is not only a designated historic site in New Taipei City but also the first Western-style hospital in northern Taiwan. This location exhibits medical instruments used at the time, along with a biography of Dr. George Mackay, clothing, daily necessities, and church-related items. Among the exhibits are an organ introduced from abroad that had been placed in Dr. Mackay's home for over a century, and traditional Chinese attire worn by Mackay's family, providing visitors a chance to learn about Dr. Mackay's life and the medical environment of that era. In 1879, Mrs. Mackay, who shared the same surname as the late Captain Mackay, donated funds to build the Huwei Mackay Memorial Hospital in memory of her deceased husband, appreciating Dr. Mackay's selfless service. The architectural style features a Chinese sloping roof with Minnan-style residence paired with Western-style window designs, and includes a fireplace, which was a necessary household facility for Westerners at the time. It is hard to imagine that within such a simple building, the first case of "lung fluke" was discovered. Today, after renovations, the Huwei Mackay Memorial Hospital not only exhibits the achievements of Dr. Mackay but also houses the Mackay Café, revitalizing the historic space. The hospital was personally designed by Mackay himself; its structure resembles a Minnan-style residence while incorporating Western doors and windows, making it quite interesting. Facing the riverside with no front courtyard, the layout adopts a reverse三合院 style. The hospital still retains its original appearance and houses some medical equipment used by Dr. Mackay during his practice. For those planning to visit, please call (886-2-2692515) the Tamsui Church of the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan to make an appointment.
