Zhong Lihe Memorial Hall Introduction
Meinong is the hometown of Mr. Zhong Lihe, who is honored as the "Father of Modern Taiwanese Literature." The "Zhong Lihe Memorial Museum" was initiated by six literary figures, including Lin Haiyin, Zhong Zhao-zheng, Yeh Shih-tao, Zheng Qing-wen, Li Qiao, and Zhang Liang-ze, who were inspired by the long-term unfair suppression and neglect of local Taiwanese writers since the transfer of power from the Japanese colonial period to the Republic of China in Taiwan. Much precious Taiwanese literature has been lost over time, which is a significant loss in the history of Taiwanese literature. Therefore, in 1979, they issued an official announcement to establish the "Zhong Lihe Memorial Museum," which received enthusiastic responses from the society. The family of Zhong Lihe provided the land at the foot of Jianshan Mountain in Meinong, where he spent his later years and wrote, unconditionally. The museum was collaboratively built by social forces, marking it as the first memorial museum of a civil writer in Taiwan constructed through public efforts, which is truly worthy of cherishing. The museum displays all of Zhong Lihe's manuscripts, diaries, notes, personal belongings, and related research documents on his literature. The second floor houses works, photos, and manuscripts from many other Taiwanese authors. Outside the museum, there is a Taiwanese Literature Trail, featuring the names and famous quotes from over 30 Taiwanese writers, laid out in stone markers amidst a lush forested area. As visitors stroll through, they can listen to the melodic interplay of literature and the soul, recalling the steadfast and sincere spirit of the writer, who was dedicated to literature and gave voice to farmers. It is believed that this experience can foster a spiritual connection with the predecessors of Taiwanese literature and leave a deep impression.
