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 2.5-meter uplift on the eastern part of the playground due to the presence of the Chechengpu Fault. Many school buildings were severely damaged and collapsed, with the post-earthquake landscape and building conditions being very evident. After experts in geology surveyed the epicenter area, it was recommended to plan the site of the uplift disaster at Guangfu Junior High School to be transformed into the "Earthquake Memorial Museum," preserving the original earthquake site and documenting earthquake history, serving as a living education resource for the public and schools regarding earthquakes. The "National Museum of Natural Science 921 Earthquake Education Park" opened to the public on September 21, 2004. The main exhibition halls are the "Chechengpu Fault Preservation Hall" and the "921 Image Hall," along with a "921 Water Pool" converted from a swimming pool. The Fault Preservation Hall is highly educational, providing explanations of the causes of earthquakes through various models, and illustrating the pattern of geological displacement. Through the operation of interactive instruments, visitors can vividly understand "earthquakes." The surface displacement of the 921 earthquake fault at Guangfu Junior High School is significant, with the maximum uplift of the Chechengpu Fault being 9.8 meters, a rare geological wonder in the world. The Image Hall retains all the imagery and audiovisual materials documented during the 921 earthquake, also providing precious historical materials that allow people to understand the history of earthquakes that have occurred in Taiwan, reflecting on natural changes from history and the terrified expressions in disaster photographs, allowing a genuine understanding of the helplessness people face during earthquakes, prompting reflection on human insignificance and the fragility of life. Fortunately, in the face of disaster and unfeeling changes, humanity's precious qualities are also revealed; in photographs, the compassionate and determined eyes of rescuers inspire gratitude for the warmth of Taiwan. Walking through the Image Hall, the understanding of the 921 earthquake goes beyond external shock, reaching deep into the heart. Before exiting the Image Hall, there is a special display showcasing models and introductions of schools that received the Far Eastern Architectural Award "921 Campus Reconstruction Special Award," featuring beautifully renovated school buildings that evoke a strong sense of the power of new beginnings, as history writes a new beautiful chapter. As you leave, let the painful memories remain in the museum and take away only the strength of rebirth, feeling the resilience of life, ensuring that this visit is worthwhile!
