Wenshan Civic Center

Originally the long-abandoned and dilapidated principal's residence of Muzha Elementary School, it was transformed after renovation into an elegant building that blends Japanese simplicity with modern aesthetics, symbolizing heritage and the connection between old and new. The planning and establishment of the Wenshan Civic Center underwent an arduous process. Beginning with a coordination meeting in May 1999 for the proposed Wenshan Civic Center site, and through multiple events such as "Local Leader Workshops," "Wenshan Civic Center Public Hearings," and "Wenshan Civic Center Overall Planning Meetings," where community planners, representatives of civic organizations, school parents, and local residents participated in discussions, a consensus was reached on its planning, renovation, and utilization. The groundbreaking ceremony was held in 2002, followed by a grand inauguration ceremony on October 19th. From then on, the meticulously constructed Japanese-style building, originally built in 1927, gained a new appearance, taking on the important task of developing the district's local cultural heritage, industrial characteristics, and fostering community awareness. It is also one of the best examples of idle space reuse. Muzha Elementary School was founded in 1906, originally a branch of Jingmei Public School. Principal Liu Shan-ming became its second principal in 1946. Principal Liu was diligent in school administration, actively involved in many local public affairs, and fostered countless talents, earning him deep respect from the people of Muzha as an educator. Principal Liu retired in 1969 and passed away in 1982. Mrs. Liu continued to live in the old principal's residence, which held memories of most of her life, until her passing in 1992. From then on, the old principal's residence remained vacant and unused. The Civic Center is located directly opposite the Wenshan District Administrative Center, adjacent to Muzha Elementary School, and borders the Jingmei River to the east. With a total area of 636 square meters, its interior and exterior spaces are divided into a service counter, lecture hall, outdoor plaza, and outdoor multi-purpose plaza. These spaces can be utilized for teaching, public art, "big tree classrooms" (outdoor learning), and diverse exhibitions, making it an elegant building rich in local, cultural, and symbolic value. The new wing of the center is a newly constructed two-story building. In addition to showcasing district history, administrative development, old historical photos, and local industrial characteristics, it regularly invites artists, cultural groups, and communities to host various art exhibitions on the first and second floors to enhance the quality of cultural life. Rental services are also available. The old wing, a renovated Japanese-style building, serves as an open exhibition space and is also available for rent by individuals and groups to host academic and intellectual activities such as discussion groups and book clubs. Wenshan is a wonderful place, "a gathering of culture, with beautiful mountains and waters," and boasts a rich cultural history and distinctive industries. A visit to this elegant Civic Center, which blends past and present, will not only help you understand Wenshan's history and current development but also allow you to experience a beautiful and elegant building with historical value. We eagerly await the visit of all citizens and friends!