Wenshan Civic Association Introduction
Originally an abandoned and dilapidated principal's dormitory of Muzha National Elementary School, it has been renovated and transformed into an elegant building that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese simplicity with modernity, symbolizing the meaning of heritage and the integration of old and new. The establishment of the Wenshan Community Center has undergone a challenging process, starting with a coordination meeting for the land proposal in May 1999. Through multiple events such as "Local Leaders Workshops," "Wenshan Community Center Public Hearings," and "Wenshan Community Center Overall Planning Meetings," discussions involving community planners, representatives of civil organizations, parents from the school, and local residents were held to build a consensus for planning and renovation. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in 2002, and a grand opening ceremony was held on October 19 of the same year. Since then, the intricately constructed Japanese building from 1927 has donned a new face, undertaking significant tasks to develop local cultural heritage, industrial characteristics, and to foster community consciousness, making it one of the best representatives of adaptive reuse of abandoned spaces. Muzha National Elementary School was established in 1947 as a branch of Jingwei Public School. Principal Liu Shanming took over as the second principal in 1946, playing a rigorous role in local public affairs and nurturing countless talents, making him a highly respected educator in the Muzha community. Principal Liu retired in 1969 and passed away in 1982, while Mrs. Liu continued to live in the principal's old dormitory filled with many memories until her death in 1992, after which the old principal’s dormitory remained unused. The community center is located directly opposite the administrative center of Wenshan District, adjacent to Muzha National Elementary School, and is bordered by Jingmei River to the east. The site covers an area of 636 square meters and includes spaces such as a service desk, lecture hall, outdoor plaza, and multi-functional outdoor square, suitable for teaching, public art, tree classrooms, and various exhibition spaces, embodying significant local and cultural values in an elegant building. The new building of the center is a two-story construction that showcases the history of the region, its political development, historical photos, and local industrial characteristics. To enhance the quality of cultural life, it regularly invites artists, cultural workers, and community members to hold various art exhibitions on the first and second floors, and also offers rental services. The old building has been renovated as an exhibition space for the public and organizations, hosting various discussion forums, study groups, and other academic activities. Wenshan is a wonderful place rich in culture, beautiful mountains and waters, along with abundant cultural history and industrial features. A visit to this elegant community center, which combines both the past and present, not only offers insights into Wenshan's history but also provides an opportunity to experience the beauty of a historically significant architecture. We sincerely look forward to welcoming all citizens!
