Dadaocheng Gu's Residence Introduction
The Gu Family Salt House, located at Lane 9, Guizhai Street 303, was built in 1910 by Gu Xianrong, the father of Gu Zhenfu, former chairman of the Mainland Affairs Council. Since the Gu family was engaged in the salt industry at that time, this grand residence was known as the "Salt House." It faced the Tamsui River Wharf, as the house was built by the river for business purposes, allowing boats to dock right in front. The Gu family moved out of the mansion in 1961, and in 1963, the current site established the Rongxing Kindergarten, which continues to this day. This building is quite unique, designed in a late Renaissance style reminiscent of Western architecture, featuring an arcade in front, light yellow brick exterior, elegant arched windows, and glazed railings with floral patterns. The ornate crest and relief decorations on the gable reflect the trend of Western influence during that era, representing the life of wealthy families at the time. Upon entering, the finely crafted cypress wood ceiling and staircase are well preserved, and the walls still bear the mark of the Daito Trading Company founded by Gu Xianrong. The Gu Family Salt House not only witnessed the prosperity of the Gu family but also has become a page in the history of Taipei.
