“A salt tycoon lived here?” a child’s voice might have chirped, gazing up at the majestic Dàjiǎhú Chén Residence. Here on the banks of the Danshui River, this grand mansion whispers tales of a bygone era, a time when Taipei was still finding its modern footing. In the 1920s, this elegant two-story Western building with its red brick accents served as both a grand residence and a hub for the salt trade. This was during the era of Japanese rule, a time of immense change and opportunity.
The man behind this marvel was Chén Lián-Xing, a prominent figure in the salt industry. Rising from humble beginnings, he rose through the ranks, eventually earning the trust of the Japanese administration. He constructed this mansion, then known as the “Salt Mansion,” as a symbol of his success and a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. Imagine the bustling activity, the clinking of teacups, as Chén conducted business negotiations in the spacious ground floor, his family’s quarters nestled above. The ornate decorations, including the captivating Greek key pattern on the central gable, hinted at the family’s aspirations and the blending of Eastern and Western influences in their lives.
But times change. By the mid-20th century, the mansion took on a new life. Chén’s son, recognizing the need for quality childcare in the rapidly growing city, transformed the estate. Dàjiǎhú Chén Residence became home to the prestigious Morningstar Kindergarten. The laughter of children replaced the murmurs of business deals. Yet, the building retained echoes of its glamorous past – the intricate wooden staircases, the meticulously crafted ceiling medallions, the elegant floor tiles – silent witnesses to the passage of time and the enduring legacy of the Chén family.