The memorial hall is the first one in China dedicated to celebrating the life and achievements of Comrade Su Yu. It occupies an area of 146 mu (about 97,333 square meters), with a construction area of 2,468 square meters for the Exhibition Hall of Su Yu’s Lifetime Achievements and Contributions, among which the exhibition area is 1,100 square meters, and 300 square meters for the Tourist Service and Reception Center.
The building integrates the distinctive local-flavored horsehead walls with modern architectural styles, featuring a gray-blue tiled roof and gray-white ceramic plates adorning its facade. Overall, the memorial hall exudes a simple and natural style without losing its noble and magnificent aura, resonating with the achievements of General Su Yu. It stands as one of the landmark buildings in Huitong County. The name plate of the memorial hall was inscribed by former President Yang Shangkun in September 1991.
Shortly after the passing of Comrade Su Yu, preparations began for the establishment of a memorial dedicated to him at the Cultural Center of Huitong County, Hunan Province. This memorial opened to the public in October 1984. In order to strengthen revolutionary tradition education, the Huitong County Party Committee and County Government raised more than 500,000 yuan in 1986 to construct a monument and exhibition hall dedicated to Comrade Su Yu’s life and deeds within the Lincheng Park on the outskirts of the county seat. It opened to the public in April 1987. In June 1987, following a decision by the County Party Committee, the Huitong County Museum was established, serving as the predecessor of the memorial hall. In April 1989, the State Administration of Cultural Heritage approved Huitong’s proposal of changing the name of county museum to the Memorial Hall of Comrade Su Yu. On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Su Yu’s birth in 2007, the exhibition was updated with the theme “A Great General of His Generation - Exhibition on the Lifetime Achievements of Su Yu”. In August 2011, the memorial hall underwent renovations, which were completed and opened to the public on September 29, 2014.
The exhibition displays a total of 437 photographs and cultural and historical materials, 87 artifacts, and 3 restored scenes. Utilizing various high-tech presentation methods such as sound, light, and electricity, it presents these materials in the form of photographs, documents, charts, calligraphy and paintings, videos, and restored scenes. The exhibition is divided into six sections: A Dong Minority Youth, Devoting to the Revolution, Forsaking Studies for Military Service, Displaying Military Talent, Fighting the Japanese Behind Enemy Lines, Becoming Famous in Jianghuai, A Major Commander in East China, Devoting Himself to National Defense, and A Drop in the Ocean, Forever Living in the Hearts of the People. These sections vividly present the glorious and combat-filled life of Comrade Su Yu.
Based on historical facts and adhering to the principle of seeking truth from facts, the exhibition strives to highlight unique features and reflect individuality. It reflects Su Yu’s character, great achievements, and historical contributions from multiple perspectives, explores the origins and development of his military thought, and showcases his strategic foresight in politics and military affairs, his superb campaign command abilities, and his far-reaching influence on modern Chinese national defense. The exhibition promotes Su Yu’s revolutionary spirit and noble qualities, inspiring people to strive to build a strong socialist modern country.
(Translated by Yang Hong)