National Museum of Natural Science 921 Earthquake Education Park Introduction
On September 21, 1999, at 1:47 AM, Taiwan experienced a massive earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale, marking the largest earthquake in Taiwan in a century and causing severe devastation. After the earthquake, at Guangfu Junior High School in Wufeng District, the East Campus playground was uplifted by 2.5 meters due to the presence of the Chelungpu Fault. Many school buildings sustained serious damage and collapsed, making the post-quake topography and the condition of the structures highly evident. Geological experts who surveyed the epicenter recommended that the site of the tectonic uplift at Guangfu Junior High be restructured into an "Earthquake Memorial Museum" to preserve the earthquake's origin, document its historical facts, and serve as a hands-on educational resource for the public and schools regarding seismic education. The "National Museum of Natural Science 921 Earthquake Education Park" opened to the public on September 21, 2004, featuring major exhibitions such as the "Chelungpu Fault Preservation Museum" and the "921 Image Museum," along with a "921 Water Pool" transformed from an old swimming pool. The Fault Preservation Museum is highly educational, utilizing various models to explain the causes of earthquakes and the overall movement of geological layers. Through interactive equipment, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of earthquakes. The Chelungpu Fault showed significant surface displacement at Guangfu Junior High, with a maximum uplift of 9.8 meters, making it a rare geological wonder in the world. Within the Image Museum, all images and audio-visual materials recorded during the 921 earthquake are fully preserved, along with rare historical materials that provide insight into Taiwan's seismic history. Visitors can observe nature's changes through historical perspectives or empathize with the fearful expressions captured in disaster photographs, recognizing humanity's fragility in the face of earthquakes. Fortunately, in the face of disaster and harsh changes, the precious aspects of human nature emerge, as seen in the compassionate and determined eyes of the rescue workers captured in photographs, reminding us of Taiwan's warmth. Walking through the Image Museum not only exposes visitors to the external shocks of the 921 earthquake but also deeply touches their hearts. Before leaving the Image Museum, there is a collection of models and graphic introductions featuring schools that received the "Special Award for Campus Reconstruction" at the Far Eastern Architectural Award, showcasing the beautifully refurbished school buildings that exude a powerful sense of rebirth. History is writing a new, beautiful chapter. Before departing, the past painful memories can remain within the museum without needing to be carried away; instead, it is vital to remember the strength of rebirth from the ashes, feel the resilience of life, and believe that this journey was worthwhile!
