Introduction
The Wu Family Ancestral Temple was built during the Qing Dynasty by General Wu Guangliang, the Chief Commander of Taiwan at the time, and Prefect Wu Benjie, along with members of the Wu clan. It enshrines Lord Qin Bo as the common ancestor of the Wu family. This ancestral temple is recognized as a national-level ancestral shrine and is regarded as the origin temple for all Wu family shrines in Taiwan.
Lord Qin Bo was the great-grandfather of King Wu of Zhou. Among his three brothers, the youngest was the most virtuous and most suited to inherit the throne. To avoid causing trouble for their father, who would face public opposition if the youngest son were not chosen, Lord Qin Bo left home with the eldest brother and yielded the throne three times to show his sincere willingness to step aside. Because of this act of humility, he became known for his selfless character. He later settled with his followers in a remote area, where he was revered by locals as their ruler. It is said that the Wu surname originated from this legacy. His descendants eventually overthrew King Zhou and ushered in the peaceful reign of the Zhou Dynasty. In memory of Lord Qin Bo, his descendants adopted the surname Wu as a mark of respect.
Designated as a third-class historic monument, the Wu Family Ancestral Temple was restored in 1967. Despite renovations, its arched gates, courtyard, and traditional architectural style have been well preserved. Above the central entrance hangs a plaque reading "Founding Family of the Lineage." The two stone columns at the entrance are engraved with the phrases "Descendants of Filial Sons from Eight Min" and "The Family of the King Who Yielded Three Times," which recount the deeds of Lord Qin Bo. Inside, a plaque inscribed with the characters "Supreme Virtue" hangs from the main hall beam, symbolizing profound moral values.
