Wu Hsiu-Tsai's Residence Introduction
Wu Scholar's Residence, located in the Shangku settlement of Shangqi Village, is the largest ancient residence on Lieyu Island. Built in the 20th year of the Daoguang era of the Qing dynasty, it was constructed by Wu Jingshan, who gained wealth through operating shipping and salt fields in Shangku. The residence features a three-section grand courtyard with double dragon guards on both sides. After the fifth-generation descendant of the Wu family, Wu Yushan, passed the scholar examination in the late Guangxu era, a study and school were established in front of the ancient residence, providing free education for local children. This initiative earned him much affection from the neighbors, leading the residents of Lieyu to refer to the Wu family residence as "Scholar's Residence," a name that continues to this day. Inside Wu Scholar's Residence, the layout and decorations are distinctly hierarchical, with a balanced and symmetrical arrangement. The front serves as the entrance hall, while the back houses the main hall, which contains a shrine, ancestral shrine, and photographs of the Wu ancestors. Hanging above the main hall is a Tian Gong furnace, Tian Gong lamp, and Tin Ding lamp, with the Tin Ding lamp inscribed with the words "Yanling Yanpai." The left dragon guard area retains a "Xian Jian," serving as a place for the owner to drink tea and perform Nanguan music. The roof design of Wu Scholar's Residence is characterized by the common "Hard Mountain with Two Eaves" style found in Kinmen, featuring both "Yingwei" and "Maobei" types of ridges. The Yingwei ridge is adorned with mud sculptures depicting figures, animals, and landscapes, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship and elegance, making this grand residence worthy of careful appreciation.
