Chung Li-ho Memorial Hall Introduction
Meinong is the hometown of Mr. Chung Li-he, who is revered as the "Father of Modern Taiwanese Literature." The Chung Li-he Memorial Museum was established in response to a collective concern from six literary figures—Lin Haiyin, Chung Chao-cheng, Yeh Shih-tao, Cheng Ching-wen, Lee Chiao, and Chang Liang-tse—about the long-standing unfair suppression and neglect of local Taiwanese writers since the Japanese colonial period and the relocation of the Nationalist Government to Taiwan. As many precious Taiwanese literary works faded over time, it was deemed a significant loss in the history of Taiwanese literature. Thus, in 1979, a call for the establishment of the "Chung Li-he Memorial Museum" was issued, receiving enthusiastic responses from the community. Chung Li-he's family generously provided land at the foot of Jian Mountain in Meinong, where he spent his later years and wrote. The museum was built collaboratively by civil society, making it the first memorial museum for a folk writer constructed by civic initiative in Taiwan, which is truly worthy of cherishing. The museum showcases Chung Li-he's manuscripts, diaries, notes, personal belongings, and relevant research documents about his literature. On the second floor, it houses works, photographs, and manuscripts of many other Taiwanese writers. Outside the museum, there is a Taiwanese Literary Trail featuring the names and famous quotes of over 30 Taiwanese writers, displayed on literary stones set amid lush greenery. Visitors can stroll through the area, listening to the melodies of literature and the soul, reflecting on the life of the writer who was deeply committed to literature and giving voice to farmers. It is believed that this experience will resonate with the spirits of Taiwan's literary pioneers and leave a profound impact.
