The exhibition space contributes to bridging revolutionary history with local cultural identity, serving as a “red address” for education on  patriotic traditions

The exhibition space is the result of extensive research, surveys, and painstaking collection by the Hue City History Museum, supported by local authorities, researchers, historical witnesses, and residents of the Hoa My Resistance Zone.

Following its handover by the Hue City History Museum to the Phong Dien Ward authorities for management and operation in late June 2026, the space officially opened its doors to visitors. Featuring more than 150 initial documents, artifacts, and photographs, the exhibition space basically meets the requirements to build overarching themes connecting the history, culture, and development of the former resistance zone across different periods.

There, visitors gain a deeper understanding of "The Land and People of Hoa My" through a diverse picture of ethnic communities. This is presented through representative images and artifacts, such as traditional musical instruments, brocade attire, everyday items, and distinct cultural values preserved across generations.

Within the same space, the period "Hoa My – A Revolutionary Base in the War for National Liberation" is authentically recreated through the hard, yet heroic, life and struggle of local troops and residents. This is depicted through numerous photos and artifacts—ranging from rubber sandals and canteens to weapons and battlefield mementos gathered by the museum and donated by locals.

Equally noteworthy are the transformations of present-day Hoa My. Achievements and potential in eco-tourism, culture, economy, and infrastructure are vividly highlighted through photographs and visual models, painting a comprehensive picture of a heroic land continually progressing over time.

According to Mr. Nguyen Duc Loc, Director of the Hue City History Museum, history is the root of identity and the spiritual foundation for every locality and nation to move forward on their development path. The values left behind by previous generations belong not just to memory, but must be continuously preserved, studied, and promoted through various means to become a resource for development.

In recent years, through research, collection, exhibition, and heritage education activities, the Hue City History Museum has sought to bring history closer to the public, particularly the younger generation. The goal is for every artifact and historical story to inspire and awaken pride in national traditions—with the exhibition "Hoa My – where history left its golden traces" standing as one such outcome.

"This exhibition space offers officials, party members, youth, students, and tourists alike a valuable opportunity to connect more deeply with the heroic story of Hoa My," said Mr. Loc. "In doing so, it nurtures patriotism and national pride, encouraging everyone to take greater responsibility in safeguarding, preserving, and carrying forward the historic and cultural legacy of our homeland."

At the reception ceremony for the "Hoa My – where history left its golden traces" exhibition space, Mr. Than Manh Tuan, Vice Chairman of the Phong Dien Ward People's Committee, expressed his deep emotion. He emphasized that opening this space holds great significance for preserving and promoting the local revolutionary history values.

Beyond serving as a community hub, the space acts as a living archive that preserves and highlights the rich cultural heritage of the Pa Hy, Van Kieu, Kinh, and other brotherly ethnic groups residing in the locality.

It is this exhibition space that will contribute to bridging revolutionary historical values with traditional cultural identity, becoming a “red address” for patriotic education. Simultaneously, it serves as a destination for visitors to explore local history and culture, fostering the development of community-based tourism in the period ahead.

Fulfilling its historic mission

"Founded in March 1947 under the direction of the Thua Thien Provincial Party Committee led by Comrade Nguyen Chi Thanh, the Hoa My Resistance Zone served as the headquarters for the core revolutionary agencies. It functioned as a hub for training, logistics, weaponry, and medical services, standing as a firm anchor for the province's resistance movement."

Between March 1947 and May 1948, the Hoa My Resistance Zone accomplished its historic mission with distinction. It helped safeguard revolutionary forces while recording illustrious military feats, notably thwarting the sweep at Dat Do post and laying an ambush that wiped out a French mountain battalion.

Story and photo: Nhat Minh