Annals of Xin'an County by Shu Mao, Wang Chongxi, et al. (Qing Dynasty)

In the Qing Dynasty (AD 1636-1912) local officials had a clear understanding of the significance of coastal defense, as reflected in Annals of Xin'an County, "Of military affairs, border defense is most urgent. Of border defense, maritime control is most important. The county seat overlooks the vast ocean, and the passes at Jishui, Fotang, Du'ao, Xiaosanmen and Dayushan are situated along the route of maritime navigation. To its east, there lies Tunmen and Wang Jing; to its west, there lies Aowan and Maozhou. The village at the southernmost tip is the outer wall of Humen. This strategic location makes it a protecting territory for the provincial capital. Dapengsuo is also a strategic town for defending Huichao due to its adjacency to the Pinghai Sea. Our dynasty has been known far and wide for its virtue and strength, and island countries dwelled by ethnic minorities have pledged their allegiance. However, it has been a time-honored tradition to attach great importance to defense and coastal territories."