National Taichung First Senior High School is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, affording faculty and students the opportunity to reflect on the central Taiwan institution’s storied past.
Founded in 1915, NTFSHS was the first public high school established by and for locals during the Japanese colonial period (1895-1945). Its iconic red brick facade—built in 1920 and torn down 50 years later—quickly developed a reputation as a landmark of homegrown Taiwan architecture.
“The structure was the first such project undertaken by local architects and engineers,” said Wang Chih-cheng, director of Taichung City Government’s Cultural Affairs Bureau. “As an alumnus, I always consider it a pity not having the opportunity to witness its original grandeur and beauty.”
According to Wang, red brick buildings were a common sight on Taiwan’s campuses, but they were mostly built by the Japanese. “Ours stood out as it represented the independent and liberal spirit of the institution.”
This spirit is reflected in NTFSHS students’ traditional opposition to social injustice and political oppression. During Japan’s 50-year rule of Taiwan, many organized demonstrations in protest of discrimination and unfair treatment by the Japanese. The torch has been passed from generation to generation, as evidenced by the participation of students in a wide range of civil movements over the years.
Long considered the top-ranking high school in central Taiwan, it comes as no surprise that it was the nation’s first secondary institution to embrace a more enlightened approach to gender issues. This was demonstrated recently by the administration’s support for a sex-change teacher and construction of a gender-neutral restroom.
Throughout the last century, NTFSHS has fostered a large number of Taiwan talents in various fields. Vice President Wu Den-yih, Premier Mao Chi-kuo and National Taiwan University President Dr. Yang Pan-chyr are among the alumni.
Wang said there is no question that the school will continue upholding the values of freedom and openness in the years ahead, while supporting the students’ diverse development.
“Just as we are working to rebuild our original red brick facade, NTFSHS is striving to preserve its reputation for posterity and provide the youth with a clear direction for achieving personal and professional greatness in the future.” (YHC-JSM)
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