National Museum of Natural Science 921 Earthquake Education Park Introduction
On September 21, 1999, at 1:47 AM, Taiwan experienced a magnitude 7.3 earthquake, the largest in a century, causing severe damage. After the 921 earthquake, Guangfu Junior High School in Wufeng District experienced a significant uplift of 2.5 meters in the eastern playground due to the presence of the Chelengpu Fault, with multiple school buildings severely damaged or collapsed. The changed landscape and the building conditions after the quake were clearly visible. Geological experts who visited the epicenter area suggested that the uplifted disaster site of Guangfu Junior High School be planned and rebuilt as the "Earthquake Memorial Museum" to preserve the original earthquake site, document seismic history, and serve as a living educational resource on earthquakes for the public and schools. The "National Museum of Natural Science 921 Earthquake Education Park" has been open to the public since September 21, 2004, featuring the main exhibition halls including the "Chelengpu Fault Preservation Hall" and the "921 Image Hall," along with a "921 Waterscape Pool" converted from a swimming pool. The Fault Preservation Hall is highly educational, explaining the causes of earthquakes through various models and demonstrating the patterns of geological faulting through interactive instruments, allowing a vivid understanding of "earthquakes." The ground displacement of the 921 earthquake is particularly evident at Guangfu Junior High School, with the Chelengpu Fault exhibiting a maximum uplift of 9.8 meters, making it a rare geological wonder in the world. The Image Hall retains all the visual and audio records from the time of the earthquake, also providing valuable historical materials to help people understand the seismic history that has occurred in Taiwan. By looking at historical changes in nature or the terrified expressions in disaster photos, one can deeply empathize with humanity's helplessness in the face of earthquakes, prompting reflection on human insignificance and the fragility of life. Fortunately, in the face of disaster and relentless change, humanity's admirable qualities are also seen; the images of rescue workers with compassionate and determined eyes remind us to be grateful for the love in Taiwan. Walking through the Image Hall, one’s understanding of the 921 earthquake transcends the external shocks and resonates deeply within. Before leaving the Image Hall, there is a special display of models and descriptive materials from the school that received the Far Eastern Architectural Award "921 Campus Reconstruction Special Award." The beautifully renewed school buildings embody the strong force of rebirth, marking the writing of a new and beautiful chapter in history. Before departing, the painful memories of the past can remain in the museum, leaving one only with the strength of rebirth and the resilience of life, assuring that the visit was worthwhile!
