Was Tung Chung always a bustling hub? Once, it was a strategic point. Let me tell you about Tung Chung. It offers a tranquil alternative to Hong Kong’s frenetic energy elsewhere.
Tung Chung Fort stands as a silent witness to Hong Kong’s layered past. The carved granite slab shows the date of the Fort as 1832. This was during the Qing dynasty. At that time, Tung Chung was the naval headquarters of the Right Battalion of Dapeng.
Dapeng Fortress was initially built in 1394. Its purpose was to protect the area from pirates. Over time, it grew into a town. This happened during the Ming and Qing dynasties. In 1571, it endured a siege of over forty days. Japanese pirates used scaling ladders during the siege.
The Dapeng dialect is a unique mix. It blends Hakka and Cantonese. Dapeng defended the Thousand Household City. It was referred to as Dapeng City from 1394. Its main function was resisting pirate invasions.
In the Qing dynasty, Dapeng defended the Thousand Households City. It served as Dapeng Marine Master Camp. Nine districts fell under its jurisdiction. These included Dongyongkou, Shuishitang and Lantau. During flood season, it oversaw forts. These were Tuotu, Fotangmen, Nantou and Lantau forts.
During the Daoguang period, this city became a stronghold. It played a role in the Opium War against Britain. The Qing dynasty navy stationed the Dapeng camp here. It became the Dapeng Association. The headquarters and left battalion stayed in Dapeng city. The right battalion moved to the newly built Tung Chung city. This Tung Chung city is also known as Tung Chung Fort.
In 1898, big changes occurred. The New Territories were leased to Britain. The Qing authorities evacuated Tung Chung Fort. Britain then occupied it. It first became a police station. Later, Wa Ying College moved in. The Rural Committee Office also used it. Tung Chung Public Primary School was here for a time. Sadly, the Tung Chung Public Primary School closed in 2003.
The Hong Kong government declared Tung Chung Fort a monument in 1979. Today, Tung Chung is part of the Pengcheng Community. It is in the Dapeng New District. Shenzhen is sometimes called Pengcheng as well.
From this vantage point, you can imagine the naval officers. Picture them directing their battalions. Hear the echoes of the past. It connects Tung Chung Fort to the Opium War. It links it to the defense against pirates. Tung Chung is a place where history whispers. This Hong Kong site stands as a reminder.