Former Residence of Xiong Qinglai in Mile City, Honghe

Former Residence of Xiong Qinglai in Mile City, Honghe
More Picture

The Former Residence of Xiong Qinglai (熊庆来故居) is an important historical site located in Qinglei Village, Pengpu Town, Mile City (弥勒市), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). Established during the Qing Dynasty under Emperor Guangxu between 1875 and 1908, it spans 1,055 square meters.

This residence is significant not only for its architectural style but also as a testament to the life and achievements of Xiong Qinglai, a notable figure in modern Chinese science and education. It serves as a patriotic education site showcasing his scientific legacy and contributions to mathematics.

On March 5, 2013, it was recognized as a national key cultural relic protection unit by the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.

Key Information

  • Chinese Name: 熊庆来故居
  • Location: Qinglei Village, Pengpu Town, Mile City, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province
  • Period: 1893
  • Area: 1,055 m²
  • Protection Level: National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit (7th batch)
  • Approval Authority: State Council of the People’s Republic of China

Historical Development

The residence was constructed by Xiong Qinglai’s father, Xiong Guodong, during the Guangxu period. In 1999, it was designated as a provincial patriotic education base by the Yunnan Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China and the provincial government.

Key milestones include:

  • 2014: Field surveys and measurements were conducted by the Yunnan Provincial Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, leading to a design plan approved by the National Cultural Heritage Administration.
  • 2019: Funding was allocated for fire safety system improvements.
  • 2022: The fire safety system was completed and passed inspection, ensuring the preservation of this cultural site.

Architectural Layout

The residence reflects traditional southern Yunnan architectural styles, primarily a quadrangular courtyard layout known as a “siheyuan.”

  • Main Entrance: A grand entrance with intricate wood carvings and a plaque inscribed by calligrapher Chu Tunan, stating “Former Residence of Xiong Qinglai.”
  • Main House: Features a double-eaved gable roof structure measuring 12 meters in width and 10.5 meters in depth, with a total height of 8.5 meters. Inside, it houses a collection of Xiong Qinglai’s works, documents, and personal items.
  • Side Rooms: Used for additional living spaces. The southern side room was originally a study, while the northern one is adjacent to the ancestral hall, decorated with calligraphy by Xiong Guodong.
  • Living Room: A simpler design with a single-eaved roof, measuring 6.4 meters wide and 5 meters deep, serving as a gathering space for family and guests.
  • Inner Courtyard: Includes two spacious areas, featuring a bronze statue of Xiong Qinglai.
  • Longevity Hall: Located north of the kitchen, characterized by a heavy-eaved roof.
  • Ancestral Hall: Situated in front of the Longevity Hall, a single-eaved structure measuring 14 meters wide and 7.1 meters deep. It displays an exhibition of Xiong Qinglai’s life, including photographs and a fiberglass bust.

Cultural Significance

Xiong Qinglai (1893–1969) was a pioneer in modern science and higher mathematics education in China. He studied at several institutions and abroad, obtaining a master’s degree in science. Upon returning, he taught at prestigious universities including Southeast University and Tsinghua University.

His notable contributions include:

  • Research in Complex Functions: Leading to the internationally recognized “Xiong’s Infinite Series” doctoral thesis.
  • Educational Influence: Mentored prominent mathematicians including Hua Luogeng and Hu Kunsheng.

Local communities have named parks, roads, and schools after him, and his hometown was renamed Qinglei Village, reflecting his enduring legacy.

Travel Information

How to Get There

  • By Car: Approximately 50.3 kilometers from the Mile City Government, about one hour by car.
  • Public Transport: Local bus routes to Mile City, then taxi to Qinglei Village.

Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
  • Local Cuisine: Traditional Yunnan dishes, such as “crossing the bridge rice noodles” and local mushrooms.
  • Cultural Respect: Be mindful of local customs and traditions.
  • Photography: Capture the architecture and natural beauty respectfully.
  • Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide to enhance understanding of the site’s historical and cultural significance.