Xinpu Zhang Ancestral Temple

The Xinpu area was first settled by the Taokas tribe, led by their chiefs Wei Agui and Qian Zibai of the Zhuzhian community. It became a dwelling place for the Pingpu indigenous people and was formerly known as "Bali'guo." During the Qing Dynasty's Qianlong era, people from Guangdong began to settle here, and it was then renamed Xinpu. Due to its excellent geographical location, it gradually developed into a bustling market town. The Zhang Ancestral Temple is located on the south side of Xinpu Street, with fertile fields stretching out in front, offering an excellent environment. However, due to rapid urban development, only a small alley connecting to Heping Street remains today. The Zhang Ancestral Temple, commonly known as Zhangjiaci, was founded by Zhang Yunlong in the 7th year of Tongzhi (1868) during the Qing Dynasty and completed in the 9th year of Tongzhi. It featured a two-story, double-hall architectural layout, which was considered magnificent at the time. Unfortunately, it was burned down by Japanese forces in the 21st year of Guangxu (1895). Later, in the 41st year of Meiji (1907), Zhang Xiude reconstructed it, adopting a layout of one main hall and two side wings, which is the form seen today. Zhang Yunlong, whose original name was Zhang Yumei, was born in the 9th year of Jiaqing (1804) and died in the 6th year of Guangxu (1880). He lived through the Daoguang, Xianfeng, and Tongzhi reigns, attained the rank of gongsheng (imperial scholar) through donations, and was renowned throughout his life for his heroic spirit, exceptional talent, and courage in upholding justice, becoming an important local figure and a wealthy gentry alongside Chen Chaogang in Xinpu. The Zhang Ancestral Temple primarily worships Zhang Linzhi, Zhang Yunlong's father, and the ancestral tablets of the six main branches of Zhang Linzhi's descendants. It is a typical ancestral hall dedicated to ancestors who migrated to Taiwan, serving as a testament to the local family's development. Due to its historical value and unique characteristics, it was designated a county-level historic monument in 2004.