Underwater Cultural Heritage in Matsu: Outreach Education Program

The Matsu Islands are located at the northern end of the Taiwan Strait, outside the mouth of the Min River. Since ancient times, they have served as important hubs for fisheries and maritime transportation. The history and culture of the archipelago are therefore closely intertwined with the sea.

In 2013, the Dongyong Community Development Association applied to the Lienchiang County Government to conduct a survey. A joint investigation team composed of the underwater archaeology team and the Taiwan Waters Safe Diving Association subsequently discovered the S.S. Sobraon in the waters off Dongyin. In 2015, due to its rich historical background and its research potential and value in relation to 19th-century shipbuilding technology and maritime trade development, the S.S. Sobraon was officially listed as underwater cultural heritage by the Bureau of Cultural Heritage.

The discovery and investigation of the S.S. Sobraon also demonstrates the longstanding involvement and potential of local Matsu communities in the exploration and preservation of underwater cultural heritage.

A total of 32 participants attended this year’s outreach program. Unlike last year’s event, which primarily targeted local junior high and elementary school teachers and students, this year’s participants represented a more diverse audience, including local community residents of Nangan, students, and Coast Guard personnel. This broader participation helped expand the range of community engagement.

In response to the diverse audience, the course content was slightly adjusted. Professor Ellen Hsieh introduced the concept of underwater cultural heritage, while a Section Chief from the Bureau of Cultural Heritage explained the Underwater Cultural Heritage Preservation Act. In addition, Assistant Research Fellow Huang Han-Chang shared his personal experiences participating in the original investigation of the SS Sobraon, strengthening the connection between underwater heritage research and the local community.