Dục Thanh School: A Historical Cradle of Patriotism
Trường Dục Thanh (Duc Thanh School) stands as a national historical relic located in Phan Thiet City, Binh Thuan Province. Established in 1907 by patriotic scholars under the auspices of the Lien Thanh Association, the school championed modern, progressive education during the French colonial era. However, its primary historical significance lies in its connection to Vietnam’s beloved leader, President Ho Chi Minh.
The Legacy of Teacher Nguyễn Tất Thành
The school is most famous because Nguyễn Tất Thành (Ho Chi Minh’s name at the time) taught here from September 1910 to February 1911 before embarking on his revolutionary journey abroad.
A Temporary Home: Nguyễn Tất Thành, then just 20 years old, taught Quốc ngữ (National Literature) and Han Văn (Classical Chinese), and also oversaw physical education. He stayed in the Nhà Ngư (Fisherman’s House), a small building adjacent to the main classroom. Visitors can still see the simple, rustic classroom and the artifacts associated with his time here, allowing a glimpse into his life as a young teacher.
Cultivating Patriotism: The school’s mission centered on educating youth and instilling a deep love for the homeland. His brief tenure here profoundly influenced the students and further shaped his own revolutionary ideals.
Architecture and Relics
The entire relic area, now beautifully preserved, invites visitors to step back in time. The site, officially recognized as a National Historic Site in 1986, includes several key structures:
Main School Building: This large wooden structure served as the main classroom, characterized by its simple architecture with red-tiled roofs and wooden pillars. The interior features period-appropriate desks and chairs.
Ngoạ Du Sào (The Resting House): This structure functioned as a place for the school’s founders and patriotic scholars to meet and discuss political affairs, symbolizing the intellectual and patriotic spirit of the time.
Ancient Garden and Well: The grounds feature a well used by the teachers and students, along with preserved trees, including a famous starfruit tree that Nguyễn Tất Thành supposedly cared for. These elements create a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere.
Visitor Essentials
Visiting Duc Thanh School offers a quiet, historical detour from the province’s busy beaches, providing a rich educational experience.
Address: The relic is located at 39 Trưng Nhị, Phường Đức Nghĩa, Thành phố Phan Thiết, Bình Thuận, Vietnam (near the Cà Ty River).
Opening Hours: The site is generally open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is advisable to visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Admission Fee: The site maintains a policy of Free Admission, welcoming all domestic and international tourists.
Culture and Etiquette: Since the school is a site of immense national and spiritual importance, visitors should maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor while exploring the grounds and preserved buildings. Photography is permitted, but always exercise cultural sensitivity.
