Li Chunsheng Memorial Church Introduction
The famous wealthy merchant of Dadaocheng, Li Chunsheng, is a legendary figure who accumulated his wealth as an agent for foreign trading companies. He played a significant role in helping British merchants manage the production and marketing of tea in northern Taiwan, achieving remarkable success and earning the title of "Father of Taiwanese Tea." He was a pioneer in exporting Taiwanese tea to Europe and America. As a Christian and a well-known local tycoon, he often intervened to mediate disputes between foreign merchants and local residents, ensuring that matters reached satisfactory conclusions. He was also known for his benevolence and enthusiasm for public welfare, enjoying a high reputation in the community. Moreover, he made significant contributions during the modernization efforts promoted by Liu Mingchuan. The Li Chunsheng Memorial Church, built by later generations, commemorates this immortal merchant. This two-story building is located on Guidé Street, an area inhabited by foreigners during the late Qing Dynasty, where wealthy merchants and trading companies congregated, making it the most prosperous district of Dadaocheng. Due to its location by the Tamsui River, the foundations of the houses here are higher than usual to prevent flooding. Although the exterior tiles of the building have been renovated, its front features are relatively well-preserved, resembling a human face, with the entrance as the mouth and the two cow-ear windows as the eyes. This architectural style is unique to Taipei City and is quite distinctive.
