Chen Shiming (right) and Elyn MacInnis hold up his calligraphy, symbolizing China-U.S. friendship, at the 2024 "Kuliang Stories" Sharing Session. [Photo/FZ Evening News]
Recently, 100-year-old Chen Shiming from Fuzhou picked up his brush to write the Chinese character "Fu" (福) along with a couplet he carefully composed. This special gift was dedicated to Elyn MacInnis, initiator of "Kuliang Friends", symbolizing his hope for an enduring friendship between China and the United States.
A life shaped by generosity
Born in 1924 into a working-class family in Fuzhou, Chen Shiming's life has been deeply intertwined with Kuliang, located in the eastern suburbs of Fuzhou. As a young student, he received financial support from American architect Paul P. Wiant, which enabled him to complete his studies at the Anglo-Chinese College (Yinghua Zhongxue, 英华中学) and later at Fukien Christian University.
Reflecting on his past, Chen often credits Wiant's generosity for allowing him to pursue an education and embrace progressive ideas. He fondly remembers Wiant's son, Allen, as a childhood playmate. Though their paths diverged when the Wiant family returned to the U.S., the two reconnected in 1980 and have remained in touch ever since.
Chen Shiming sits with the character "Fu" (福) which he wrote for Elyn MacInnis. [Photo/FZ Evening News]
A teacher, a friend
During his time at the Anglo-Chinese College, Chen developed a close bond with his English teacher, Donald MacInnis. Recognizing Chen's exceptional language skills, MacInnis encouraged him to publish the school's only handwritten English-language newspaper, "TIDE", which featured news, essays, and reports from Yangkou, a county in Nanping city, Fujian province. In 1941, MacInnis took the first issue back to the U.S. for safekeeping. More than half a century later, when he returned to China in the 1990s, he presented the carefully preserved issue of "TIDE" to Chen as a testament to their lasting friendship.
In 2015, fulfilling MacInnis's final wishes, his son Peter and daughter-in-law Elyn scattered some of his ashes into the Minjiang River in Fujian. The following year, during Qingming Festival, Elyn returned to Fuzhou to pay tribute, accompanied by Chen.
During World War II, Donald MacInnis served as a lieutenant in the American Volunteer Group, famously known as the "Flying Tigers", which supported China against Japanese aggression. Recognizing Donald's contributions, Chen worked tirelessly to have his name inscribed on the Fuzhou Memorial Wall for Anti-Japanese Martyrs.
In 2018, Donald MacInnis became the first foreigner to receive this honor.
A friendship that lives on
Chen Shiming's bond with the MacInnis family continues through Elyn MacInnis, who visits him whenever she comes to Fuzhou. She often brings Kuliang-themed souvenirs, and in return, Chen gifts her calligraphy inscribed with phrases such as "Optimism, Strength, Integrity, Tolerance" and "Friendship Everlasting".
In 2023, during a remembrance ceremony at the Fuzhou Memorial Wall for Anti-Japanese Martyrs, Chen and Elyn stood side by side, lighting the flame of remembrance in honor of those who came before them.
During the "Bond with Kuliang: 2024 China-U.S. Youth Festival", Chen presented Elyn with a special calligraphy piece symbolizing the enduring friendship between China and the U.S.
"'Fu' is an essential symbol in Chinese culture, representing good fortune and happiness," Chen said. Looking forward to their next meeting, he will invite Elyn to his home, where he will personally present her with his calligraphy—a gesture of hope that this cherished friendship will continue for generations to come.
