The Red Cause: Revolutionary Witness Sites in Guizhou
Baiceng Ancient Ferry
Baiceng Ancient Ferry is located east of Zhenfeng County, about 20 kilometers from the county seat. As the oldest pier on the Beipan River, it served as a crucial waterway connecting the north to Anshun and Guiyang and the south to Guangxi and Guangdong. Historically, it was a bustling hub of commerce and a vital military stronghold due to its strategic location. Inscribed on the stone gate of the ancient post road are the words "Key to Guizhou and Guangxi" (黔桂锁钥).
The Site of the Zunyi Conference
On April 16, 1935, the 1st Battalion of the 11th Regiment of the 3rd Army Corps of the Chinese Workers' and Peasants' Red Army, led by Battalion Commander Tian Weiyang, was ordered to secure Baiceng Ferry. They swiftly constructed a pontoon bridge over the ferry, tying iron wires to tree stumps and rocks on both sides of the river. By the afternoon, they completed a stable bridge over 2 meters wide and 70 meters long, enabling troops and horses to cross smoothly. This allowed the main Red Army forces to pass through Beipan River and enter Zhenfeng County.
On April 18, Mao Zedong and Zhu De led the main Red Army forces across Baiceng Ferry. During their time in Zhenfeng, they engaged in seven battles against enemy forces in locations such as Pomen, Pingjie, Baiyanguan, Yintan, Baili, Po'ai, and Lu'ai Jiulao Mountain.
In 2006, a Red Army memorial was built on the western bank of the Beipan River at Baiceng Town to commemorate these historic events.
Baiyanguan Red Army Battle Site
Located 7.5 kilometers from Zhenfeng County, Baiyanguan is flanked by Yingpan Mountain on the left and Luohan Mountain on the right, with towering cliffs on both sides. The area earned its name for its gleaming white cliffs.
On April 18, 1935, after crossing Baiceng Ferry, the Red Army advanced through Guojiamu, Liangshuijing, Baiyanguan, and other areas toward Zhenfeng County. The Nationalist Army attempted to block the Red Army at Baiyanguan, relying on the natural fortifications and military defenses. A brief but intense skirmish ensued, resulting in casualties on both sides. The site is still referred to as "Red Army Pass" (红军丫口) by locals.
In 1987, Baiyanguan was listed as a protected cultural heritage site by Zhenfeng County and later designated as a provincial-level heritage site in 2018. It has become a significant venue for patriotism, revolutionary tradition, and national defense education.
Caozhi Street No. 71 (Former Central Red Army Headquarters)
Located in Anlong County, Caozhi Street No. 71 served as the residence of Mao Zedong, Zhu De, and other Central Red Army leaders during their stay in April 1935. It was also the site of the 1950 "Anlong Meeting," where Yunnan's provincial leadership was established.
The historical site has been preserved as a patriotic education base and revolutionary tourism attraction. The building remains intact, showcasing its original architectural features. In 2015, it was designated as a model patriotism education base by the Guizhou Provincial Publicity Department.
Hongjun Well in Baoshu Village
In Baoshu Village, Wangmo County, a well known as the "Red Army Well" (红军井) was repaired by the Red Army in April 1935 to address local water shortages. The well, built with river stones, continues to provide a steady water supply. It remains a symbol of the Red Army's dedication to improving the lives of the people.
Xiaohuajiang Scenic Area
The Huajiang Suspension Bridge in Xiaohuajiang Village, Zhenfeng County, was a key transportation link between Guizhou and Yunnan. In April 1935, the Red Army used this area to block advancing enemy troops, ensuring the safe passage of the main Red Army forces. Today, the area features a Long March cultural park and a Red Army exhibition hall, attracting visitors interested in revolutionary history.
Former Site of the CPC Guizhou-Guangxi Border Committee
The former site of the Guizhou-Guangxi Border Committee is located in Bancheng Village, Zhexiang Township, Wangmo County. From 1933 to 1941, this site served as the headquarters for underground revolutionary activities across regions of Guizhou and Guangxi. In 2023, it was designated as a research base for fostering national unity.
Xingyi Weishe Red Army Village
In April 1935, the Red Army engaged in battles in Weishe Town, Xingyi City, and left a lasting legacy. Today, Red Army relics such as caves, radio command sites, and memorial halls have been preserved. Xingyi Red Army Village is a key educational site, embodying the enduring spirit of the Long March and revolution.
