The former residence of Shen Baozhen

    The residence was built during the reign of Emperor Tianqi of the Ming Dynasty (1621-1627). Shen Baozhen bought it over and renovated it in the early years of the reign of Emperor Tongzhi of the Qing Dynasty (1862-1874). The residence，occupying a total area of 2,747㎡, is composed of two adjoining buildings. The main building has four compounds, with a courtyard at the west side. This splendid mansion is a fine example of Ming-Qing architecture and was designated in 2006 as one of the 6^th group of key cultural relics under state protection.

    Shen Baozhen (1820-1879), born in Houguan County (present Fuzhou), was the younger son-in-law of Lin Zexu. An Imperial Scholar in 1847 (the 27^th year of the reign of Emperor Dao Guang of the Qing Dynasty), Shen was appointed Minister of Fujian Ship Administration, Governor General of Jiangsu and Jiangxi Provinces, plus Minister of Commerce dealing with Southeast Asian countries. During his life time, he accomplished brilliant achievements by committing to maritime administration, coastal defence, safeguarding and developing Taiwan.