Shandong Property Management Institute Senior Team visit

We were delighted to accept a visit from the senior management team at the Shandong Property Management Institute. Our outgoing House Manager, Lorena Hodgson, as they were her last group, took them on a tour of the building, showing them details relating to housing in particular, and noting the gift from the previous Chinese visit from Beijing that she remembers from when she volunteered at the House, some years ago!

Lorena has been working on the accession register, a list of all our archives, and so was able to find some extra interesting pieces to bring out to show them. The letters were of particular interest. Photographs were taken constantly by the group, and when they said they only had a few minutes left, Lorena asked if they would quickly line up in the Long Room for a photo for the House, and was then surprised by them giving a beautiful gift! Below is the details showing the significance of such a gift, we were delighted to receive it.

Cultural Significance of Mount Tai Jade & “Shigandang”The seal is crafted from Mount Tai Jade from Shandong Province. Mount Tai is a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site. In Chinese culture, jade and stones from Mount Tai represent resilience, stability, and enduring integrity. Traditionally, they are placed in meaningful locations as a symbol of protection and unwavering support (historically known as Shi-gan-dang / Stone Guard). We presented this to the Birthplace House to wish the museum eternal stability, protection, and prosperity.