The origin of Kaiping Diaolou

After the Opium War in Kaiping Diaolou, the rule of the Qing government became more decadent, and Kaiping people were forced to go abroad in large numbers to make a living. After the efforts of one generation or even several generations, some industries have gradually developed. During the Republic of China, wars were more frequent, especially bandits. However, due to the combination of mountains and rivers and convenient land and water transportation, overseas Chinese and returned overseas Chinese are relatively well off, and bandits are concentrated in Kaiping area to commit crimes.

At that time, bandits in the county plundered everywhere, causing countless tragedies. At the slightest sign of trouble, people will pack up their gold and silver and hide everywhere. Often, they will be shocked all night and stay awake all night. When overseas Chinese return to China, they often dare not stay at home, but go to market towns or relatives' homes, and often change their accommodation places, otherwise they will be in danger of losing their families. From the first year of the Republic of China (19 12) to the fifteenth year of the Republic of China (1926), bandits robbed schools eight times and captured more than 100 teachers and students.

Among them, in the Republic of China 1 1 year (1922) 65438+February, when bandits robbed Kaiping Middle School in Chikan area, they were illuminated by searchlights in Yingcun watchtower, and four township groups intercepted them in time, intercepting principals and students 17 people. This incident caused a sensation in the county, and overseas Chinese were very surprised when they heard the news. They think the watchtower has played a role in preventing bandits.

So they scrimped and saved, raised money and remitted it back to their hometown to build a watchtower. Later, in order to ensure the safety of their families and protect their property, some overseas Chinese built various towers when they returned to their hometowns to build new houses. In this way, the towering towers have become a major feature of Kaiping, the hometown of overseas Chinese. More than 3000 seats at most, 1833 seats.