Bridging hope and history

The torrents destroyed the wooden pavilion on top of Huanxiu Bridge, and the stones that bolstered the central arches. [Photo by Zhang Jianping/For China Daily]

• Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368):

The bridge was first build by the wife of Huanxiu, a businessman who died while on business far from home.

• Qing Dynasty (1644-1911):

The bridge was destroyed in a domestic uprising in 1863. It was then rebuilt by Luo Fujun and his wife, who added a wooden pavilion on the bridge and made it a gathering place for the village. As Luo was nicknamed Heile, the bridge was named Hei Bridge, after him.

“Cultural revolution” (1966-76):

During the 10 years from 1966 to 1976, the name of Huanxiu Bridge was changed to Red Flag Bridge or Hongqi Bridge.

• 2011

Huanxiu Bridge was listed as a major historical and cultural site protected at the national level by the State Administration of Cultural Heritage.

• June 30, 2013

The bridge was swept away by a huge flood, leaving it with only two piers.

• July 31, 2013

The restoration plan was completed.

• Aug 31

The restoration will be revised by the State Administration of Cultural Heritage.

• Sept 30

Restoration starts.

• Nov 30

Restoration to be completed.