Exhibition recreates President Ho Chi Minh’s writing of Independence Declaration

THE HANOI TIMES — An exhibition recreating President Ho Chi Minh’s writing of the Declaration of Independence is ongoing at the restored historic house at 48 Hang Ngang Street in Hanoi.

The event is among a series of highlights in Hanoi’s program commemorating the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution (August 19) and National Day (September 2).

The exhibition features rare images and artifacts about the history of the house, and the patriotic bourgeois family of Trinh Van Bo and his spouse, Hoang Thi Minh Ho.

The event also tells the historical context and necessity and significance of the Declaration of Independence, and replays the ongoing journey to safeguard national independence.

Through mapping technology, virtual reality, and holograms, alongside archival materials, visitors can time-travel to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of 1945 when the whole capital was preparing for the historic moments of the August Revolution and National Day.

The visuals at the exhibition is enhanced by modern technologies such as 3D light displays and interactive simulations, giving visitors an experience while preserving the original artifacts. This approach reflects current trends in digital transformation and innovation in heritage education.

"The images and artifacts at the exhibition are well-explained using language accessible to residents and international guests," Vuong Thanh Nga, a visitor from Cau Giay Ward, told The Hanoi Times.

"The materials capture the historical context and atmosphere of the site, giving me a full understanding of the house's cultural depth and national significance as the place where the Declaration of Independence was drafted,” she said. 

The House No.48 Hang Ngang holds a special place in Vietnam’s history.

Following the August Revolution, President Ho Chi Minh stayed here to draft the Declaration of Independence, which was proclaimed at Ba Dinh Square on September 2, 1945, marking the founding of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

The site was listed as a national historic relic in 1979.

The patriotic family of Trinh Van Bo and Hoang Thi Minh Ho offered their house to President Ho Chi Minh also supported the Provisional Revolutionary Government of Vietnam with nearly 5,150 taels (195 kilogram) of gold, an amount nearly twice the government’s treasury at the time.

After recent restoration, the house, with its original design and artifacts, is well-preserved. Modern technologies have also enhanced visitors’ experience and educational value.

According to Bach Lien Huong, Director of the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports, the project reflects the city’s commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage through digital transformation.

Recognizing its historical and cultural significance, the Hanoi People’s Committee officially deemed the site a commemorative project for the anniversaries of the August Revolution and National Day, with the plaque installation ceremony on August 18.

“Through the plaque installation and exhibition,Hanoi wants to promote patriotism, inspire national pride, and bring the site’s cultural and historical values closer to both residents and visitors,” said Huong.

“For me, the event honors Vietnamese history, and inspires younger generations to continue building an independent, self-reliant, and prosperous Vietnam,” Nguyen Thi Thanh Thuy, a member of the Hoan Kiem Ward Women's Union, told The Hanoi Times.

The exhibition will run until September 5.