By / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department compiled report
The Agena Shipyard in Bakesimen, which recently gained attention when Captain America actor Chris Evans filmed an ad here, was unexpectedly demolished on the 15th, sparking renewed discussion. In response, Keelung Mayor Lin You-chang posted a message expressing deep sorrow and condemnation over this act that shows no respect for the local cultural and historical structures.
Agena Shipyard in Bakesimen. (Photo source / Keelung City Police Bureau)
The site of the Agena Shipyard in Bakesimen was once the terminus of the Shuibatetsudo railway. This railway transported ore such as gold and copper mined from the Jinguashi area via the Shuinsen Tunnel to be stored here before being shipped to Japan to be refined into red copper and bronze. Locals called this place "Copper Mine." In 1967, the Shuibatetsudo ceased operation. American company Agena Yacht leased part of the Bakesimen station area, built factory buildings, and manufactured yachts, providing numerous job opportunities. Bakesimen thus enjoyed a period of prosperity, but unfortunately, this didn’t last. After Agena’s poor management led to closure, the site was left with towering skeletal steel remains. These beautiful ruins gained fame again recently due to frequent filming by media companies, especially when “Captain America” shot an ad here, attracting many tourists who came to see it.
The Agena Shipyard in Bakesimen is located at the right turn from Heping Bridge on Peace Island in Keelung, heading toward the Indigenous Cultural Hall. (Photo source / Keelung City Police Bureau)
On February 15, the Agena Shipyard in Bakesimen was unexpectedly demolished. Keelung Mayor Lin You-chang posted on his official fan page stating that the city government had not received any prior notice or any application regarding local development or construction. He expressed deep sorrow over such an act that shows no respect for local cultural and historical structures. Later, after confirmation by the Urban Development Bureau, it was determined to be unauthorized demolition. A fine of NT$30,000 was issued, and the demolition was ordered to stop. Apart from completing the necessary procedures, both the Urban Development Bureau and the Cultural Affairs Bureau have stepped in hoping to preserve the ruins as much as possible.
【Info】
Address of the Agena Shipyard ruins:
Lane 116, Haibin Li, Zhengbin Road, Zhongzheng District, Keelung City