Dilkusha

WHY VISIT

Dilkusha, meaning "a joyful heart" in Persian, is the historical name given to the residence of Albert W. Taylor and Mary L. Taylor. The Taylor family commenced construction in 1923 and completed Dilkusha in 1924. Following a devastating fire in 1926, the structure was rebuilt in 1930. After the Japanese colonial authorities deported the Taylor couple in 1942, the property was briefly managed by Albert's younger brother, William W. Taylor. In 1959, the house was purchased by lawmaker Cho Kyeong-kyu of the Liberal Party. However, following the forfeiture of his assets to the state in 1963, ownership of Dilkusha transferred to the government. Left neglected for decades, the property severely deteriorated and lost its original form. In 2005, Professor Kim Ik-sang of Seoile University located the estate at the request of Albert’s son, Bruce T. Taylor. In 2006, Bruce finally returned to his childhood home after 66 years, bringing Dilkusha back to public prominence.