Museum in memory of quake victims

Source: CCTV.com | 05-12-2009 12:22

Just so that no one ever forgets, a museum set up to keep alive the memory of the victims of the Sichuan earthquake has finally opened, in Dayi county, south of the provincial capital of Chengdu.

Every object has its own unique story.

More than 50,000 items related to last May's devastating earthquake are on display. Most belonged to quake victims, and were collected from the rubble.

A loudspeaker and map used by Premier Wen Jiabao during the quake relief efforts are also on display.

And the first military boat that arrived at the Yingxiu epicenter to help with relief work is also here.

This is a bridal wedding gown. The couple were having their photos taken, when the earthquake occurred, killing them both.

A special exhibition area has been set up for victims who were students. Diaries, textbooks, shoes, schoolbags and other articles belonging to these young victims are on display. More than fifty three hundred students died or remain missing.

The exhibition brings back many memories of the catastrophe.

A museum visitor said, "It's only one year since the May 12th earthquake. Many things are still vivid in my mind. It was a disaster for China. But it also meant that the country had to become stronger."

"These objects, videos and photos related to the earthquake also demonstrate the love that people have for one another. I think it's very meaningful to collect all these things and show them to the public."

The museum is the result of a personal donation of 30 million yuan from Fan Jianchuan, an entrepreneur and well-known private collector in Sichuan.

Fan Jianchuan, the founder of Wenchuan Earthquake Museum, said, "By establishing this museum, I wanted to help people remember the disaster, and the strength, unity and unselfish love people showed during that time. Most importantly, I hope it will remind people of the lessons we learnt from the earthquake. We shouldn't forget the disaster, but should strive to cope."

The museum is a special way of remembering the victims. But the disaster left us far than pain and sorrow. The museum provides an opportunity to remember the past for achieving a better future.

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