Li Wan Ju Local Spirit Enlightenment Hall Introduction
Mr. Lee Wan-ju (1901-1966), born in Wubei Village, Kouhu Township, is a distinguished local figure. Despite growing up in poverty, he worked hard to earn opportunities to study in Shanghai and France. During the period of Japanese rule, after completing his studies and returning to Taiwan, he joined the anti-Japanese movement and later organized the Taiwan Shinsheng Daily to critique political affairs, speak out for freedom and justice, and continued to fight for democracy even throughout the 228 Incident, ultimately earning the local reputation of "Voice of Democracy." Lee Wan-ju's former residence is located in a small alley next to the Diaotian Temple in Wubei Village. Initially a thatched house, it was later rebuilt into a brick structure as living conditions improved. After efforts by local residents, support from the Cultural Affairs Council, and the design and construction by scholars and experts, this once-forgotten sanctuary of democracy has been restored, transforming the vacant space into a cultural education and recreational center known as the Enlightenment Hall. The building retains its original dragon-style architecture, blending rustic simplicity with elegant charm. Inside, displays featuring images and text narrate his life story, allowing visitors to understand Lee Wan-ju's life and early living conditions, while also serving as a space for community activities. The plaza in front of the residence is spacious, with a nearby pavilion for relaxation, exuding a sense of rural simplicity that makes it well worth a visit on weekends. The ancient well to the north of Mr. Lee's former residence, known as "Yao Dian Kou," was the main water source for residents at the time. Neighbors would carry water buckets here to fetch water. According to local elders, the well is believed to date back to the Ming-Zheng period and is said to have been dug by the Dutch, with sweet-tasting water. It is also rumored that the well can predict the weather; whenever the weather changes, the water will immediately become murky.
