Shenyang Part 7: Marshal Zhang's Mansion

Shenyang is steeped in history so it is not surprising that a lot of its attractions are historical in nature. Marshal Zhang's Mansion was one such attractions we visited. 

This mansion was the official residence of Zhang Zuolin and his son Zhang Xueliang, two names that do not ring a bell and are totally insignificant to non-residents of the Republic of China including me (at first). These two Manchurian warlords who were once governors of Northeast China are however famous and important people in Chinese History. 

While browsing through articles related to Young Marshal, a nickname given to Zhang Xueliang, something caught my attention though. This man actually kidnapped his boss, the General Chiang Kai Shek (world renowned political and military leader of China from 1928-1975) to force him into signing an agreement for a truce with the insurgent Chinese Communist Party so that they could unite against the Japanese, their common enemy. His mission was successful and because of this Zhang Xueliang was well liked and hailed a hero by the Communists. Years later, the Kuomintangs led by Chiang Kai Shek suffered defeat by this Communists Party. 

While Zhang Xueliang would have been accepted as a leader by the Communists, he chose to repent and willingly surrendered to Chiang Kai Shek who had to flee to Taiwan after the Kuomintangs were defeated.  For the next fifty years Young Marshal was held under house arrest in Taiwan.

Understanding and appreciating this history does make a difference. At least a visit to this mansion is now more meaningful.

The mansion is not a single building but a large complex comprising several buildings and courtyards. There is an unusual combination of architectural styles. While the Daqing Building (above) is absolutely European, buildings like this is traditional Chinese. These buildings now houses exhibits related to the life history of the Zhang Family.

Photo Gallery Of Marshal Zhang's Mansion

The carriage that was used to drive the children to school in the 1920s.

The life history of Zhang Xueliang illustrated in photos and write-ups.

More exhibits

The house of Zhang Xueliang's Second Wife, Zhou Yidi

The house of Zhang Xueliang's Second Wife, Zhou Yidi

The house of Zhang Xueliang's Second Wife, Zhou Yidi

The house of Zhang Xueliang's Second Wife, Zhou Yidi

A wax figurine - Zhang's Office

Inside the Daqing Building

Outside Marshal Zhang's Mansion

Hawkers were selling grapes and dried fruits just outside Marshal Zhang's Mansion. I like the Manchurian hat won by this hawker and bought one for myself albeit mine is less fanciful.

This hawker was seen peddling a very long cart - the longest I have ever seen.

Related Posts About Northeast China Travel:

Shenyang Pt 1 - Glimpses Of Shenyang

Shenyang Pt 2 - A Review Of Accommodation And Buffet Breakfast At The Longemont Hotel

Shenyang Pt 3: Interesting Food Of Shenyang

Shenyang Pt 4: Interesting Museums Of Shenyang

Shenyang Pt 5: Beijing Park & Zhaoling Tomb
Shenyang Pt 6: The Imperial Palace Of Shenyang
Shenyang Pt 7: Marshal Zhang's Mansion
Jilin Pt 1: The Journey From Shenyang To Jilin
Jilin Pt 2: The Snow Of Jilin
Jilin Pt 3: A Snowy Christmas
Jilin Pt 4: Jilin World Trade Winning Hotel Review
Changchun Pt 1: The Journey From Jilin To Changchun
Changchun Pt 2: A Day Out In Changchun
Changchun Pt 3: Shangri-La Changchun
Harbin Part 1: Journey From Changchun to Harbin And Harbin City Photo Gallery
Harbin Part 2: Sun Island International Snow Sculpture Art Expo 2016
Harbin Part 3: Ice And Snow World 
Harbin Part 4: Winter Swimming
Harbin Part 5: Siberian Tiger Park
Harbin Part 6: Harbin City Attractions
Harbin Part 7: Ice Palace Restaurant, Harbin Shangri-La Hotel
Harbin Part 8: Food Oh Glorious Food Of Harbin
Harbin Part 9: Shangri-La Harbin