Li Chun-Sheng Memorial Church Introduction
The famous businessman of Dadaocheng, Li Chunsheng, is a legendary figure who became wealthy by acting as a broker for foreign trading companies. He helped British merchants manage the production and marketing of tea in northern Taiwan, achieving great 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 renowned local businessman, he often intervened to mediate disputes between foreign merchants and local residents, ensuring satisfactory resolutions and was known for his charitable nature and commitment to public welfare, earning him high regard within the community. In addition, he made significant contributions during Liu Mingchuan's promotion of modernization. The Li Chunsheng Memorial Church, built through donations from later generations, commemorates this indelible merchant. This two-story building is located on Guidi Street, which was an area inhabited by foreigners during the late Qing Dynasty, gathering wealthy merchants and trading companies, making it the most prosperous area in Dadaocheng. Because it is beside the Tamsui River, which often flooded, the foundation of the buildings here is higher than usual. Although the exterior tiles of the building have been renovated, its front features remain well-preserved, resembling a human face, with the entrance as the mouth and two cow ear windows as the eyes. This architectural style is unique to Taipei and is very distinctive.
