Níngyuǎn

Ningyuan guarded the narrow route along the coast of western Liaoning, between Shanhai Pass and Jinzhou. After Guangning fell, Ming officials strengthened the town as a frontier stronghold. In 1626 Nurhaci attacked, but Yuan Chonghuan and the garrison, including Zu Dashou, repelled his forces with artillery and determined resistance. Hong Taiji attacked again in 1627, and Ming defenders again held Ningyuan and the neighbouring Jinzhou line.