Tianba Martyrs Cemetery of The Red Army in Xuanwei City, Qujing
Overview
The Tianba Martyrs Cemetery of the Red Army (田坝红军烈士墓, Tiánbà Hóngjūn Lièshì Mù) commemorates the sacrifices of Red Army martyrs during significant battles in 1936. This site is located in the center of Huaguoshan Park (花果山公园, Huāguǒshān Gōngyuán) within Xuanwei City (宣威市, Xuānwēi Shì), Qujing (曲靖, Qūjìng), Yunnan Province (云南省, Yúnnán Shěng).
Historical Background
On March 23, 1936, the Second and Sixth Red Army Corps (红二、六军团, Hóng Èr, Liù Jūntuán) engaged in fierce battles against the Nationalist forces (国民党军队, Guómíndǎng Jūnduì) at Hutuoshan (虎头山, Hǔtóu Shān) north of Xuanwei City. After several days of intense fighting, they significantly weakened the enemy and, on March 25, retreated to the Tianba area (田坝, Tiánbà).
During their two-day rest in Tianba, the Red Army led the local population in anti-landlord activities, redistributing wealth and promoting revolutionary ideals through slogans, notices, speeches, and cultural performances. They built a deep bond with the local community.
Tragically, two officers who were severely injured during the battle at Hutuoshan succumbed to their wounds in Wanzi Village (弯子村, Wānzǐ Cūn). After the main Red Army forces departed, two wounded soldiers left behind in Longde Village (龙德村, Lóngdé Cūn) were killed by pursuing troops from the Yunnan Army (滇军, Diān Jūn).
Following the martyrdom of these four soldiers, local residents buried their bodies at the site. After the liberation, the local government erected a monument in honor of the martyrs.
With the establishment of Tianba Coal Mine (田坝煤矿, Tiánbà Méikuàng), the coal mine’s Party Committee decided to integrate the Red Army martyrs’ cemetery into its development plan to instill the spirit of the Red Army in employees and future generations. Construction began in the first half of 1979, and the cemetery was completed in time for National Day celebrations that year.
Cemetery Features
The martyrs’ tomb stands prominently in Huaguoshan Park, featuring a 5.5-meter-high stele (碑, Bēi) made of yellow tiles inlaid with marble. The front of the stele bears the inscription “Red Army Martyrs’ Monument” (红军烈士碑, Hóngjūn Lièshì Bēi), while the back reads “The Red Army Martyrs Live Forever” (红军烈士永垂不朽, Hóngjūn Lièshì Yǒngchuí Bùxiǔ) in large golden characters.
The base of the monument is hollow and rectangular, adorned on all sides with marble panels inscribed with narratives about the martyrs. Inside the base, urns containing the remains of the four martyrs are housed. Additionally, a Red Army memorial pavilion (红军纪念亭, Hóngjūn Jìniàntíng) was constructed on the hill behind the cemetery, attracting numerous visitors who come to pay their respects.
How to Get There
- By Car: Drive from Qujing City to Xuanwei City, and follow the signs to Huaguoshan Park. There is parking available nearby.
- By Public Transport: Take a bus from Qujing to Xuanwei, then use local transport options to reach Huaguoshan Park.
Travel Tips
- Visiting Hours: Check local schedules as visiting hours may vary.
- Respectful Behavior: Maintain a respectful demeanor while visiting this solemn site.
- Photography: While photography is allowed, be mindful of the surroundings and any signs regarding restrictions.
- Local Culture: Take the time to learn about the history of the Red Army and its significance in the region.
- Amenities: Bring water and snacks, as facilities may be limited in the area.
- Plan Ahead: Consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds and have a more reflective experience.
