Light up the landmark of New China – This was once an unknown place, but now it has become a -gold and silver beach-
In a striking black-and-white photograph from the 1960s, four spirited young women, university students, stand proudly in front of their tent, having just arrived at the expansive grasslands of northwest China. This candid moment was meant to provide reassurance to their families back in Shanghai, but it was never sent out. Instead, these women kept the photo hidden for over thirty years before finally revealing it to the world, along with the mysterious code “221” and a compelling yet challenging narrative.
The 221 Factory, established in 1958 on the shores of Qinghai Lake in the JinYinTan grasslands, was China’s first nuclear weapons research, testing, and production facility. This site became pivotal in the development of the country’s first atomic and hydrogen bombs, embodying the spirit of “Two Bombs, One Satellite.”
The story began with just “three tents,” as thousands of workers were dispatched from across the country to build the facility. Concurrently, 1,279 local households, made up of over 6,700 nomadic herders, were forced to relocate from their ancestral lands within a mere ten days. Remarkably, these herders contributed livestock to support the construction and created a logistics network for the incoming workers.
The four women in that early photograph were ordinary employees of the 221 Factory. They fondly recalled the grueling living conditions on the grasslands, where biting winds could uproot their tents. Water barely reached boiling point, and meals often went uncooked due to the severe climate. Workers were provided with an “anti-cold kit,” which included wool blankets, heavy jackets, oversized shoes, and warm hats.
Life at the base was governed by stringent confidentiality, with constant reminders about the need for discretion. One of the women, Yu Xijun, shared insights into the strict regulations around photography. The base’s equipment frequently malfunctioned, and the scant few film rolls that became available offered a rare chance to document their experiences. They were prohibited from sharing or sending out photos, which led to a decades-long privacy of those moments.
Amid such unforgiving conditions, thousands of scientists, experts, and workers toiled away under assumed identities. Their commitment ultimately led to the successful test detonations of China’s first atomic bomb in 1964 and its hydrogen bomb in 1967. These significant milestones greatly improved China’s technological defense capabilities and international credibility, showcasing the remarkable ingenuity and unity of the Chinese people.
After fulfilling its historic mission, the 221 Factory was officially disbanded in 1987. In 1993, the site was repurposed and transferred to the Haibei Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, becoming the world’s first nuclear weapons research base transformed for peaceful purposes. Local authorities invested nearly 700 million yuan to restore and protect the historic site, revitalizing its eight main facilities and ensuring its historical significance is preserved for educational and tourism purposes.
Today, the Qinghai Atomic City Memorial Hall stands as a vital attraction, drawing more visitors each year eager to learn about the region’s colorful history. In 2023, nearly 489,000 guests explored the deep-rooted red culture and the breathtaking natural landscapes.
One visitor, Yang Rong, recounted his family’s story of relocation to support the base’s construction. Initially housed in basic earth homes, their journey mirrored the profound changes the region has undergone over the decades. Today, modern infrastructure and amenities have significantly improved their lives, wiping away the hardships of the past.
As Yingjie reflected, “We have all benefited from the nation’s progress, enjoying conveniences our ancestors could hardly have imagined.”
With the legacy of the 221 Factory as a cornerstone, Haibei is on a promising path to becoming a vibrant hub that pays homage to its rich history while propelling itself toward a sustainable and prosperous future.
