Could this unassuming town be named after a single individual? Here in Thu Thua, the legacy of a pioneer echoes through the ages. Thu Thua is a town in southern Vietnam, part of Long An Province. You might not guess it from its current tranquility, but Thu Thua was once a vast, untamed wilderness. Its story began in the 19th century with a man named Mai Tự Thừa. Hailing from Kiến Thạnh, Mai Tự Thừa ventured into the wilds of Bình Lương Tây, drawn by the promise of unclaimed land. His first act? He built a small hut by the Rạch Cây Gáo canal, a humble beginning for a grand vision. With unwavering determination, Mai Tự Thừa cultivated the land along the Trà Cũ canal, transforming the wilderness into fertile ground. The town that blossomed from his tireless efforts bears his name: Thu Thua, a testament to the enduring impact of a single, driven individual. Today, Thu Thua stands as a vibrant testament to Mai Tự Thừa’s legacy. The town, once a symbol of frontier spirit, now enjoys the conveniences of National Road 1 and National Road 62, connecting it to Ho Chi Minh City and other bustling hubs. As you stroll through the town, remember the man whose name it carries: Mai Tự Thừa, the pioneer who dared to tame the wilderness and left an indelible mark on the landscape of Vietnam.
Hàm Luông River
The gentle rocking of a sampan on the water. This is the Hàm Luông River. A vital artery coursing through