TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan Culture Minister Li Yuan (李遠) pledged to issue a special certificate of commendation to 68-year-old Tsao Yi-hsiung (曹以雄) who passed away on Sunday (Sept. 22).

Tsao was a lifelong resident of Matsu and served as the cultural affairs director who achieved acclaim for advancing plans to preserve and reuse idle military facilities. Later in his life, he founded the Thornbirds Cafe, located in a former military pillbox, which had the distinction of being Taiwan’s northernmost bookstore.

Tsao was born in 1957 in Lienchang County’s Nangan Township. From an early age, he developed a strong interest in literature fostered by the remoteness and the lack of external influences in Matsu, per CNA.

Tsai spent much of his life serving the county government as a councilor and later the cultural affairs department where he carried out his vision of preserving Matsu's early settlements and idle military facilities. 

For example, he was the main proponent of preserving Qinbi Village on Beigan Island, which continues to be a must-see tourist destination for those visiting the area. Today the area hosts many B&Bs and cultural spaces, preserving the charm of a long-gone era.

According to the Ministry of Culture, Lienchiang County was an important military area under the central government's control until 1992. Afterward, the county was afforded the opportunity for self-governance.

Tsao was a member of the Lienchiang County Council when the area was allowed greater autonomy. With his recent passing, many residents and visitors to Matsu are now able to enjoy the rugged beauty and the unique history of this island cluster.