Former Residence of Zhangchong in Mile City, Honghe
Introduction
The Former Residence of Zhang Chong (张冲故居) is located in Mile City (弥勒市), Honghe Prefecture (红河州), Yunnan Province (云南省). In October 2021, it was included in the public list of educational bases for strengthening the awareness of the Chinese national community.
Historical Significance
Zhang Chong’s residence is situated in Songke Village (松棵村), Shemu Village Committee, Dongshan Town (东山镇), and is one of the most charming symbols of red culture in Mile City. Zhang Chong lived a legendary life, spending his childhood here. His revolutionary achievements are closely tied to this land.
Architectural Features
The residence was originally built in the late Qing Dynasty (清朝) and was rebuilt in 1933. In 2003, it was listed as a provincial-level cultural relic protection unit in Yunnan, and in 2021, it became part of the first batch of immovable revolutionary relics in the province.
The entrance features a traditional scholar’s gate, with a plaque above reading “Old Residence of the Scholar.” Inside, visitors will find three main rooms and three side rooms, encapsulating the environment of Zhang Chong’s childhood. Little did anyone know that the child playing in this courtyard would grow up to be the formidable “Black Tiger General.”
Exhibition Details
The exhibition hall within the residence displays Zhang Chong’s manuscripts, archival materials, and various certificates from his time as a representative in the National People’s Congress and a member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. Notably, each exhibition panel includes a QR code that visitors can scan to learn more about Zhang Chong’s life and the revolutionary era he experienced.
Cultural Experience
As a carrier of red culture in Mile City, Zhang Chong’s residence offers an immersive display. It not only showcases his childhood environment but also provides spaces for reflection, allowing visitors to engage with his thoughts and emotions regardless of the weather.
Every visitor can engage with Zhang Chong from different perspectives and levels. The land where he fought bravely is now filled with flowers, and the “Black Tiger General,” who dedicated his life to communism and the people’s happiness, will forever live in the hearts of the people.
Biography of Zhang Chong
Zhang Chong (张冲), born in 1900 and passed away in October 1980, was known by the courtesy name Shaoyu (绍禹) and the pseudonym Yunpeng (云鹏). He was a male member of the Yi ethnic group (彝族), originally from Songke Village (松棵村) in Dongshan Town (东山镇) of Mile County (弥勒县). His father, Yu Ting (玉廷), served as a county assistant in the late Qing Dynasty.
Zhang Chong was the third of four brothers. He became a legendary hero known throughout the Mile-Luxi region. Influenced by revolutionary thoughts during the Xinhai Revolution (辛亥革命) at the age of 12 or 13, he later pursued his studies in Kunming (昆明).
After his father’s death in 1918, 18-year-old Zhang was falsely accused of colluding with the bandit Zhao Guangting (赵光廷) and was approved for arrest by the provincial government. He fled to Pingyi (彝良县) and joined Zhao Shouting (赵寿庭). Soon, he led over 80 supporters, advocating for the poor, and his forces grew to over 600 within two years.
Amidst the warlord chaos, Zhang Chong played a significant role in the region’s military efforts. He commanded troops and was pivotal in various military campaigns, establishing himself as a key figure in Yunnan’s revolutionary history.
After the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, he held numerous important governmental positions and continued to influence the development of Yunnan Province. He passed away in Beijing in 1980, with his ashes scattered in the Jinsha River (金沙江) at the Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡).
How to Get There
To reach the Former Residence of Zhang Chong, you can take a bus or taxi from Mile City Center. The residence is located in Dongshan Town, approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. Public transportation is available, and local taxis can provide direct access.
Travel Tips
- Timing: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.
- QR Codes: Make sure to bring a smartphone to scan the QR codes for detailed information on exhibitions.
- Local Cuisine: Explore nearby local restaurants to try traditional Yunnan dishes after your visit.
- Respect: Maintain respect for the historical site and its cultural significance while visiting.
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