From Silver Street to Revolutionary Hub: 86 Hang Bac, Hanoi

via Hanoi Times/Vietnam Net, 27 September 2023: The Heritage House at 86 Hang Bac Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a treasure trove of Vietnamese history. From its origins as a royal mint in the era of Emperor Le Thanh Tong to its role as a hub for revolutionary activities against French colonial rule, the house has witnessed significant historical events.

However, there were a few who chose wisely, and thanks to them, 86 Hang Bac still retains the elegance of the neoclassical style. It was known as the “Maison Rouge” because it was painted red, a color associated with good fortune. Perfectly balanced, two side wings cover the central entrance. Even the addition of half a floor and wires draping the front can’t detract from this grand old dame.

The original resident of 86 Hang Bac, Pham Chan Hung, owned a gold shop and built his first house in 1923 and rebuilt part of it in the 1930s.

A dedicated follower of Ho Chi Minh’s liberation movement, he also served as the editor of a magazine called “Nong, Cong, Thuong” (Peasants, Workers, Businessmen), which published the works of then famous writers such as Pham Huy Thong (Chan Hung’s son), Vu Trong Phung (author of Dumb Luck), and Phung Bao Thach.

Source: Hanoi’s heritage house of great historical imprints