Hu Shih Memorial Hall Introduction
Hu Shih was a pioneer in advocating for liberalism, influenced by Huxley and Dewey in his thoughts. He claimed that Huxley taught him how to doubt, while Mr. Dewey taught him how to think. Throughout his life, he promoted a scholastic approach of "bold hypotheses, careful verification" and "all claims must be substantiated." He held various positions including Ambassador to the United States, President of Peking University, and President of the Academia Sinica. The Hu Shih Memorial Museum was originally his residence in Nangang when he returned to Taiwan to serve as the President of the Academia Sinica (1958-1962). After Mr. Hu Shih passed away on February 24, 1962, the Academia Sinica's Council approved the use of his former residence as the Hu Shih Memorial Museum, and the "Hu Shih Memorial Museum Management Committee" was soon established. The museum officially opened on December 10 of the same year, and in January 1998, it was transferred to the Institute of Modern History. The Hu Shih Memorial Museum consists of three parts: the late Mr. Hu Shih's residence in Nangang (1958-1962), which serves as the Taipei Hu Shih Former Residence. The structure, corridors, and furnishings of the residence largely retain the original style of his life during his lifetime. The second part is an exhibition room constructed in 1964, donated by C. V. Starr of the American insurance company, showcasing Mr. Hu Shih's works, manuscripts, photographs, relics, memorials, and documentaries about Hu Shih in Taiwan. The third part is the Hu Shih Cemetery, which was expanded into "Hu Shih Park" in 1974. The park features paths that ascend the hills, with winding shades and serene mountain forest scenery. Since its opening, it has attracted visitors from both domestic and abroad, who come to pay their respects at the cemetery while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
