Tamsui Octagonal Tower Introduction
The Octagonal Tower was completed in 1925 and serves as the spiritual fortress of Tamkang High School, representing the architectural style of the Mackay era. Originally named the "Faith, Hope, Love Tower," it was designed by Mr. K. Doawie, a mathematics teacher and missionary at the time, with architectural forms referencing prestigious schools in England and America. It uniquely integrates both Eastern and Western styles, as well as local Taiwanese architecture, in a layout resembling a traditional Hakka courtyard. The main tower stands 60 feet tall with two floors flanking it, followed by classrooms on either side that gradually decrease in height. The classrooms at the front are capped with winged towers, featuring a balcony at the front and corridors on both sides. Three towers surround a lush front yard, with the entrance accessed via a palm tree-lined path. The main entrance is adorned with a Guanyin stone lintel carved with a bird-shaped decorative element and palace lanterns to highlight its Chinese characteristics. Above the lintel of the Octagonal Tower, there is a calligraphic inscription of "Faith, Hope, Love" by Wu Ting-fang, which served as the school's motto at its founding. Originally, there was a clerical inscription of "Tamshui High School," but during the Japanese occupation, it was recarved to read "Private Tamshui High School." Two rows of Alexander palms were planted along the walkway in front of the entrance, and a second floor was added to the east wing. After the merger of the male and female schools in 1956, a second floor was also added to the west wing, forming its current appearance. This enchanting building not only shapes the elegant academic atmosphere of Tamkang High School but also provides the best environment for inspiring and cultivating cultural qualities. It has also become one of the most romantic filming locations for today's cinema and advertisements.
