Former Residence of Zhang Mingqi

Former Residence of Zhang Mingqi

The former residence of Zhang Mingqi is a cultural relic protection unit of Tianjin Municipality.

The residence of Zhang Mingqi is located at the northwest corner of Marco Polo Plaza. Built in the early years of the Republic of China, it stands at No. 80 Minzu Road in the former Italian Concession. The building features a Romanesque architectural style, with three stories constructed of brick and wood, a pitched tile roof, and a symmetrical facade. On the third floor, the central section boasts a four-arched fan-shaped balcony supported by rope-style columns, complemented by a continuous arc-shaped balcony. The eaves are supported by brackets adorned with floral and leafy reliefs, showcasing an elegant design. This was one of Zhang Mingqi's residences in the Italian Concession.

Zhang Mingqi (1875–1945), styled Jianbai and also known as Hanzhai, was a native of Wudi, Shandong Province. He was a successful candidate in the imperial examinations during the late Qing Dynasty. In 1898, he served in the household of Cen Chunxuan and earned his trust. After 1900, he followed Cen to serve in Shaanxi, Sichuan, and the Two Guangs (Guangdong and Guangxi), holding successive positions such as Supervisor of Education for the Two Guangs, Head of the Camp Affairs Office, Dao of Taiping and Sishun in Guangxi, Provincial Financial Commissioner of Guangxi, and Governor of Guangxi. In 1910, due to bribery involving Yi Xian, he provoked public outrage in Guangzhou and was dismissed from office. He was later pardoned and reinstated, and held positions such as Governor of Guangdong and Guangxi. In 1913, he served as Civil Governor of Guangxi and concurrently managed military affairs in the region. In 1915, he became Inspector-General of Guangdong. In 1916, he supported Yuan Shikai’s attempt to become emperor and was granted the title of First Class Count. In 1927, he moved to Tianjin. During his time in Tianjin, he colluded with the ousted warlord and politician Bai Jianwu, and established ties with special envoys of the Japanese Garrison Forces. After the Japanese invasion of China, he openly collaborated with the enemy.

In December 1937, he joined the Chinese Buddhist Association initiated by Wang Yitang. In 1942, he was appointed as a member of the Advisory Council of the North China Political Council along with Wang Kemin and Jin Yunpeng. He died not long after Japan’s surrender.

Transportation

Address: Northwest corner of Marco Polo Plaza

Transportation: Take bus routes 14, 462, 640, 802, 841, 901, etc., and get off at Minzhu Dao Station.