Hong Kong Cemetery
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Background
Hong Kong Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in Hong Kong. The cemetery and small chapel were opened at colonial period since 1845. Before 1913, Chinese was not allowed for burying there and the site was mainly used by European Protestants and government officials. At that time, the site is only offered to people who were subject to three conditions. Firstly, they should be non-Chinese Christians. Secondly, those who belong to non-Chinese or foreigners cannot find another cemetery in Hong Kong. Thirdly, they are Chinese with good reputation from upper class. These three types of people constitute the major feature of Hong Kong Cemetery. The historical figures include Sir Hotung (the most influential businessman in colonial Hong Kong), Kan Tung-po (the founder of the Bank of East Asia), Sir Kai Ho (the third Chinese appointed member in Legislative Council) etc. |
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Significance
Hong Kong Cemetery has significant historical meanings in Hong Kong history. It is not only a colonial legacy but also a memorable place, containing different stories behind these monuments. Politically, the Cemetery was originally offered to Western people. This reflects the colonialism is exclusive and privileged. And, racial segregation is common governance at the early stage. Increasingly, the power and position of Chinese was getting strong, elite Chinese are also allowed to be buried in the Cemetery. This reflects that colonial government had realized the importance of incorporating local elites in political system. This ensures the pattern of governance in following years. Historically, Yang Quyun's grave represents the unique role of Hong Kong in Xinhai Revolution. Yang was the first President of Xing Zhong Hui, a major revolutionary organization against Empire of the Great Qing. Yang organized the first uprising and was responsible for raising funds in Hong Kong. This reflects the fact that Hong Kong provide a major backup for the success of revolutionary. Hong Kong not only provided economic assistance, but also offered a place to develop many revolutionary leaders, such as Chen Shaobai, Sun Yat-sen and Yang Quyun. Recently, an information plaque was installed beside Yang's grave in order to enhance public understanding of the revolutionary movement in the late Qing. |
How to get there?
Hong Kong Cemetery located on Wong Nai Chung Road.
1. After exiting the MTR, follow Russell Street, turn left into Wong Nai Chung Road
2. walk south for 15 minutes.
3. The entrances of the cemeteries are scattered close to each other, opposite the public entrance of the Happy Valley Racecourse.
1. After exiting the MTR, follow Russell Street, turn left into Wong Nai Chung Road
2. walk south for 15 minutes.
3. The entrances of the cemeteries are scattered close to each other, opposite the public entrance of the Happy Valley Racecourse.
Further readings
Ting, Joseph (2008). "A Preliminary Study: Prominent Figures in the Hong Kong Cemetery at Happy Valley", Wan Chai; Hong Kong Institute of Contemporary Culture. Available from: <http://gumgum.hk/HV.pdf>. [8 December 2014].
Lim, Patricia (2011). "Forgotten Souls: A Social History of the Hong Kong Cemetery", Hong Kong; Hong Kong University Press. Available from: <https://books.google.com.hk/booksid=iaZMzPuLAggC&pg=PR2&lpg=PR2&dq=Forgotten+Souls:+A+Social+History+of+the+Hong+Kong+Cemetery&source=bl&ots=TVixp7LxEP&sig=PnqQUFUar9mRofnN51yfzfgkGfY&hl=zhTW&sa=X&ei=TJyIVJjrOcTKmAWp64CoDg&ved=0CBwQ6AEwADgK#v=onepage&q=Forgotten%20Souls%3A%20A%20Social%20History%20of%20the%20Hong%20Kong%20Cemetery&f=false>. [8 December 2014].
Ting, Joseph (2008). "A Preliminary Study: Prominent Figures in the Hong Kong Cemetery at Happy Valley", Wan Chai; Hong Kong Institute of Contemporary Culture. Available from: <http://gumgum.hk/HV.pdf>. [8 December 2014].
Lim, Patricia (2011). "Forgotten Souls: A Social History of the Hong Kong Cemetery", Hong Kong; Hong Kong University Press. Available from: <https://books.google.com.hk/booksid=iaZMzPuLAggC&pg=PR2&lpg=PR2&dq=Forgotten+Souls:+A+Social+History+of+the+Hong+Kong+Cemetery&source=bl&ots=TVixp7LxEP&sig=PnqQUFUar9mRofnN51yfzfgkGfY&hl=zhTW&sa=X&ei=TJyIVJjrOcTKmAWp64CoDg&ved=0CBwQ6AEwADgK#v=onepage&q=Forgotten%20Souls%3A%20A%20Social%20History%20of%20the%20Hong%20Kong%20Cemetery&f=false>. [8 December 2014].
