Lee Chun-sheng Memorial Church

Lee Chun-sheng, a prominent wealthy merchant from Dadaocheng, was a legendary figure in the area who made his fortune as a comprador for foreign trading companies. He assisted British merchants in managing the production and sales of tea in northern Taiwan, achieving excellent results. He was dubbed the 'Father of Taiwanese Tea' and was a pioneer in exporting Taiwanese tea to Europe and America. As a Christian and a renowned local magnate, he frequently mediated and resolved disputes between foreign businesses and local residents, ensuring amicable outcomes. He was also known for his benevolence, generosity, and dedication to public welfare, earning him immense respect among the populace. Furthermore, he made substantial contributions during Liu Mingchuan's drive for modernization. The Lee Chun-sheng Memorial Church, donated and built by his descendants, serves as a memorial to this enduring merchant. This two-story building is located on Guìdé Street, an area that served as a foreign residential district during the late Qing Dynasty. It was the most prosperous street in Dadaocheng, bustling with wealthy merchants and foreign trading companies. As it is situated by the Tamsui River, which frequently flooded, the foundations of houses here are built higher than usual. Although the exterior facade tiles have been renovated, its frontal features are remarkably well-preserved, resembling a human face with the entrance as the mouth and two ox-ear shaped windows as the eyes. This architectural style is unique to Taipei City and is highly distinctive.