This book uses data from the Lin family's collection of old written pledges, accounts and field investigations, to research the history of the Lin clan from when they first came to Taiwan over 200 years ago to the present day. There are two main points: first, how the Lin family rose from being hired laborers to become a wealthy clan within the village and also how they combined with the strength of others to stabilize society;second, how the Lin family adapted to many historic changes through the leadership of outstanding members.