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2012 Memorial Address for the Ancestral Relocation to the Ancient Locust Tree

2026-05-12


An Oration to the Ancient Locust Tree and the Ancestral Settlers

On the fourth day of the fourth month in the year 2012, the year of Renchen, as the Qingming Festival arrives, the sun shines brightly at its zenith and a gentle breeze blows warmly. Descendants from far and wide gather beneath the locust tree. With fresh flowers, elegant music, and offerings of the five grains and three kinds of sacrificial animals, we respectfully pay homage to the spirit of our revered ancestor, the Great Locust Tree.

The illustrious divine tree, a peerless monument to great achievements. Its fame endures like the noble tree, its shade sheltering our clan.

At the end of the Yuan dynasty, war and devastation raged incessantly. The Central Plains lay desolate, and the people could scarcely eke out a living.

In the heart of Shanxi, the weather is mild and the rains come at just the right time. On this fertile land of the locust‑tree hometown, industries thrive and the people are prosperous.

In the third year of the Hongwu era, the relocation of civilians was officially decreed. Beneath the ancient locust tree, the people gathered and dispersed.

Leaving home and homeland, who would not part with Hongdong? The mother broke off a locust branch, weeping tears of blood as she saw her child off.

Hands bound behind the back, he trudged along. With his armor split into two halves, the soldiers showed no mercy.

In the tenth year of the Hongwu era, there was a relocation; in the eighth year of the Yongle era, another. Eight surnames among the common people, eighteen provinces.

A native of Lianhuacheng, he has devoted himself to safeguarding his homeland and revitalizing his village. For generations, he has toiled tirelessly, giving his all with unwavering dedication.

Our forebears, migrants by fate, blazed new trails and expanded the realm. With every step upon rivers and seas, they upheld righteousness throughout the land.

Rooted in the nine realms, China rises anew. Blending our shared heritage, we spread civilization.

Great vicissitudes and momentous changes, the nation thrives in prosperity. Our illustrious ancestors, their virtues and achievements ever more exalted.

As the stars shift and time flows on, we enjoy a prosperous and peaceful era. Scientific development brings benefits to the people.

Descendants of Yan and Huang, bound by the kinship of the locust tree. With both sides of the Taiwan Strait sharing a common root, we pray for reunification.

Children of the locust‑filled homeland, set sail and embark on your journey. With a heavy burden and a long road ahead, forge ahead with steadfast resolve and earnest action.

One goal, inspiring heroes from all walks of life. Striving for excellence, we will jointly build the Six Cities.

We shall not grow weary; may the spirits of our ancestors bless our great China, granting it enduring peace and prosperity.

May the Ancestors look down and witness; we humbly beseech Your continued favor!

Sun Jingmin, County Mayor of Hongtong County People’s Government

Keywords:

Hongtong Great Locust Tree