忆定村

“A hidden gem,” whispered the architect Cao Yang as he pointed towards a cluster of buildings. “That, my friends, is Jinyuanfang Lane, part of the larger protected area known as \u5fc6\u5b9a\u6751.” \u5fc6\u5b9a\u6751, also known as Edinburgh Terrace, stands along Jiangsu Road. This charming neighborhood holds a unique place in Shanghai’s history. It reflects a blend of architectural styles and social changes that have shaped the city over decades. Originally, the area where \u5fc6\u5b9a\u6751 now stands was farmland, villages, and wasteland belonging to Beizha’s family. The landscape, crisscrossed by rivers, changed drastically in 1934. That year marked the beginning of \u5fc6\u5b9a\u6751’s construction, funded by the Central Bank of China. The resulting houses were sold to the Western Young Men’s Association located on Jing’an Temple Road. Ownership rested with the association’s national committee. The architecture of \u5fc6\u5b9a\u6751 is a testament to the modern styles prevalent in the 1930s. The three-story brick and wood structures are primarily row houses, showcasing the elegance of garden residences. Some exterior walls feature artificial stone cladding, while others are finished with a cement and hair plaster. Each house faces north-south, boasting a small courtyard of about 150 square meters on its south side. These courtyards, perfect for planting trees and flowers, add to the neighborhood’s charm. Inside, the houses were equipped with modern amenities for the time: steel windows, wooden doors, hardwood floors, wooden staircases, heating, and full sanitary facilities. In total, the complex comprises 24 buildings, accompanied by a 10-unit garage at the southern end of the lane. \u5fc6\u5b9a\u6751 occupies 4240 square meters of land, with a building area of 4020 square meters. \u5fc6\u5b9a\u6751 has been home to a diverse range of residents, including high-ranking officials and intellectuals. Tian Hongjin, a former deputy director of the Currency Issuance Bureau of the Ministry of Finance of the Nationalist government and vice president of the Central Bank, lived at number 17. His signature can still be seen on the golden circle seal. Architect Zheng Dingzeng, the mastermind behind Cao Yang New Village, also resided here. He was even the teacher of Yuan Tianshen, the former vice mayor of Shanghai. In 1991, Jiangsu Road underwent a significant widening. Part of \u5fc6\u5b9a\u6751 fell within the planned expansion zone. However, thanks to Zheng Dingzeng’s intervention and suggestion to slightly shift the road westward, the entire complex was preserved. Today, \u5fc6\u5b9a\u6751 continues to stand as a reminder of Shanghai’s rich past. Its protected status ensures that future generations can appreciate this architectural gem, a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city.