In an exclusive interview, we take a closer look at a unique artifact housed in the Central Red Army Long March Departure Memorial – a small wicker basket. This basket wasn’t just a simple piece of furniture; it served a profound purpose during a critical time in history.

Before the Central Red Army embarked on its grueling Long March, the medical staff at the rear hospital was faced with an urgent need for a place to care for infants while attending to the wounded soldiers. It was the summer of 1934, and the Nationalist forces were advancing dangerously close to the heart of the Central Soviet Area. With an influx of injured soldiers arriving at the Red Army’s rear hospital in Che Nan village, the nurses faced the daunting task of tending to both patients and the children of these heroes.

Local resident Liu Abo, upon hearing about the situation, took it upon herself to help. Early one morning, she headed up the mountains to gather vines and weave them into baskets. With the assistance of her fellow villagers, she managed to craft five sturdy baskets, securely tied together with thick ropes. These makeshift cradles found their place in the corner of the wards, providing a dedicated space for the children – their very own “baby beds.”

This heartwarming story highlights not only the resilience of the community during the war but also the quiet acts of kindness that emerged amidst the chaos.