This year marks the 130th anniversary of the birth of Hu Juewen, a renowned patriotic democrat, industrialist, and founding member and outstanding leader of the China Democratic National Construction Association. To commemorate his remarkable achievements and noble spirit, the Hu Juewen Memorial Exhibition Hall, located at the Fahua Pagoda Temple in Shanghai’s Jiading District, has undergone a comprehensive renovation and officially opened to the public on September 18.

Hu Juewen (1895–1989), originally named Baoxiang and also known by his courtesy name Juewen, was born in Jiading, Shanghai. He served as Vice Chairman of the Shanghai Municipal Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, Vice Mayor of Shanghai, Standing Committee Member of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, Chairman of the China Vocational Education Society, and Chairman of the Central Committee of the China Democratic National Construction Association.

Hu Juewen led a remarkable life, embodying the pursuit of truth and patriotic dedication. Starting from his hometown Jiading, he resolutely embarked on a path of industrial development to save the nation. During times of national crisis, he devoted himself fully to the War of Resistance Against Japan and the great cause of democratic nation-building. After the founding of New China, he tirelessly contributed to socialist construction and national development. Throughout challenges, Hu Juewen remained true to his初心, demonstrating extraordinary wisdom and courage to overcome difficulties, and his lifelong actions profoundly reflected his deep patriotism and strong sense of responsibility.

The renovated Hu Juewen Memorial Exhibition Hall systematically presents and vividly showcases Hu Juewen’s legendary life—from industrial salvation to revolutionary involvement and participation in building New China—through rich historical materials, artifacts, and scene reconstructions. It comprehensively highlights his historical contributions and noble character as an outstanding leader of the China Democratic National Construction Association.

The exhibition hall displays 213 items (sets) donated by Hu Juewen’s family, including various objects, documents, and photographs, offering a thorough portrayal of his lifelong dedication to serving the country and the people, pursuing truth, and keeping pace with the times.

Hu Juewen Memorial Exhibition Hall

On September 18, a calligraphy and painting exhibition commemorating the 130th anniversary of Hu Juewen’s birth opened at the Jiading District Archives. The exhibition will run until October 17.

Hu Juewen Memorial Exhibition Hall

The Hu Juewen Memorial Exhibition Hall is a museum in Shanghai dedicated to commemorating Hu Juewen (1898–1989), a prominent Chinese industrialist and democratic politician. It showcases his life, his significant contributions to China’s national industry during the Republican era, and his role as a leader of the China Democratic National Construction Association after 1949. The hall preserves historical artifacts and documents that highlight his legacy in China’s modern industrial and political development.

Fahua Pagoda Temple

The Fahua Pagoda Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Shanghai, originally constructed during the Three Kingdoms period (c. 247 CE), though the current structures are largely Ming and Qing dynasty reconstructions. It is renowned for its seven-story pagoda, which is one of the city’s oldest and most significant religious landmarks.

Jiading District

Jiading District is a suburban area of Shanghai, China, with a history dating back to the Southern Song Dynasty (around 1218 AD). It is historically significant for its well-preserved old town, ancient gardens, and its role as a center of Confucian learning. Today, it is a major hub for Shanghai’s automotive industry while still maintaining its cultural heritage.

China Democratic National Construction Association

The China Democratic National Construction Association is one of the eight legally recognized minor political parties in the People’s Republic of China. It was founded in 1945 in Chongqing by a group of industrialists and intellectuals and functions as part of the United Front, supporting the leadership of the Communist Party of China. Its primary focus is on economic policy, representing the interests of professionals and entrepreneurs in the building of a “socialist market economy.”

Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference

The Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) is a key political advisory body in China, established in 1949 to unite non-Communist parties and represent various social sectors. It serves as a forum for consultation and discussion on major state policies before they are finalized, though it holds no legislative power.

All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce

The All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (ACFIC) is a national people’s organization and chamber of commerce in China, established in 1953 to represent and serve the country’s private sector and non-state-owned businesses. It acts as a bridge between the government and private enterprises, promoting economic development and implementing state policies.

National People’s Congress

The National People’s Congress (NPC) is the highest organ of state power in the People’s Republic of China. It was established in 1954 under the country’s first constitution, succeeding the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. The nearly 3,000-member congress meets annually to approve laws, elect state leaders, and formally endorse major government policies.

China Vocational Education Society

The China Vocational Education Society is a national academic organization established in 1917, originally founded by renowned educators Huang Yanpei and Cai Yuanpei to promote vocational education in modern China. It has played a significant historical role in advancing China’s vocational training system and continues to support the development of skilled professionals through research, policy advocacy, and educational exchanges.