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A Chinese Biographical Dictionary/Chu Chih-hsi

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439 Chu Chih-hsi 朱之錫 (T. 孟九 H. 梅麓). - A.D. 1624-1666. A native of 義烏 in Chehkiang, who graduated as chin shih in 1646. In 1649 he was employed on the History of the Ming Dynasty. In 1656 he was sent to the Yellow River; and in this post he laboured for ten years, introducing improved systems of conservation with the aid of dredgers, and getting rid of abuses and oppressive customs. In 1662, on the occasion of a serious breach in the embankments, he composed a short ditty which inspirited the men to labour with zeal. He was also the author of a popular work on river conservation. Constant exposure in all weathers, together with want of rest and regular meals, caused his death. His devotion to the public weal led to bis being worshipped as a deity by the people along the river, and even prayed to by boatmen when in danger. Canonised as 佑安.