Li Wan-ju's Former Residence (Li Wan-ju Spiritual Enlightenment Museum) Introduction
Mr. Li Wanju, also known as Mengnan, was from Wubei Village, Kouhu Township, Yunlin County, born on July 22, 1901. Growing up in a poor family and losing his father at an early age, he laid his foundation in Chinese studies through self-study and hard work. In 1924, with the support of relatives and villagers, he went to Shanghai for further education, and in 1926, he went to France to study, obtaining a degree from the Faculty of Arts at the University of Paris in 1932. Mr. Li was a pioneer and an enlightening figure in the Taiwanese democratic movement, advocating for the lifting of party and press bans, promoting judicial reform, and dedicating himself tirelessly to democratic political reform. His lifelong pursuit of democracy and freedom for Taiwan and his active involvement in local politics, as well as his spirit in advocating for press freedom and political rights, are truly admirable. In 1950, to further implement party politics and promote democracy and freedom in Taiwan, he, along with Lei Zhen and others, attempted to establish the China Democratic Party, though this effort ultimately failed under the oppressive rule of the authorities. Nevertheless, his exemplary conduct is worthy of admiration by future generations. He passed away in 1966 due to complications from diabetes, at the age of 66. Currently, Mr. Li Wanju's former residence, located next to the Chaotian Temple in Wubei Village, Kouhu Township, Yunlin County, has been renovated and transformed into the Li Wanju Enlightenment Museum through the active efforts of local individuals, becoming one of the important cultural landmarks in Kouhu Township.
