Diyi Hall Introduction
Diyi Hall, also known as Diyitang and commonly referred to as the Marshal Temple, was established in 1873 by the Lin family of Banqiao after the violent clashes between the Hokkien and Teochew communities during the Xianfeng era. It was built to honor the martial masters and brave warriors who died in battle. The main deity worshiped is Marshal Xu, whose birth name is Xu Cai, a martial arts master hired by the Lin Benyuan family. In the ninth year of the Xianfeng reign (1859), during the violent conflict, Xu Cai and twelve brave warriors lost their lives, prompting the Lin family to fund the construction of this shrine to honor their spirits. The main structure has three sections with two protective dragons, and the entrance gate is adorned with images of door gods holding a sword and a seal, resembling traditional temples. The existing structure still showcases traditional craftsmanship. Due to its representation of Hakka people employed in the Xianfeng conflict, it holds significant historical value and was designated as a New Taipei City historic site in 2013. Over ten million NT dollars were invested in the restoration project to preserve this valuable cultural heritage. The New Taipei City Government has been conducting restoration and reuse projects starting in 2018, completed after two years, partially opening the main hall and courtyard. In the future, there will be activities held in conjunction with the Banqiao Lin Family Garden, including the Banqiao Old Town Tour led by volunteer guides, and connecting with Cihui Temple, Jieyun Temple, and Dazhong Temple to form the four major ancient temples of Banqiao, constructing the cultural characteristic of "Fangqiao Old Town."
