“Wah Fung Tong” Did you know that’s another name for the Cheung Ancestral Hall? This hall stands as a testament to the Cheung clan’s legacy in Shan Ha Tsuen Yuen Long. Let’s step back to 1815 during the Qing dynasty. The 22nd generation ancestors of the Cheung clan built this hall. Cheung Nam-yat Cheung Shui-yat Cheung Chi-kwong and Cheung Yiu-fong were instrumental in its creation.
The Cheung Ancestral Hall wasn’t just a place of worship. It served as a hub for the community. The Cheung clan valued education highly. They established study halls in Shan Ha Tsuen for both boys and girls. From the 1930s to the 1950s the Cheung Ancestral Hall even functioned as Wah Fung School. It remained so until a new school was built near Lam Hau Tsuen in 1958.
Look around. Notice the traditional two-hall structure. Grey bricks form the walls. An open courtyard lies between the halls. Two side chambers connect the halls. One acted as a kitchen. The other served for storage.
Now gaze towards the rear hall. There you’ll see an altar. Ancestral tablets rest here. On the altar’s top shelf sits the soul tablet of Cheung Gau-ling. He was a prime minister during the Tang dynasty. The Cheung clans of Shan Ha Tsuen and Dongguan recognize him as their pioneer ancestor. Admire the altar’s elaborate wood carvings. “The Eight Immortals” are depicted. The carvings show the superb craftsmanship of a bygone era.
In 1999 the Antiquities and Monuments Office together with the Architectural Services Department oversaw a major restoration. This preserved the hall for future generations. That same year the Cheung Ancestral Hall was declared a monument. This designation protects its historical and cultural significance. As you stand here remember the generations of Cheungs who gathered educated and worshiped within these walls. The Cheung Ancestral Hall embodies their enduring spirit and commitment to community and education. It represents their lasting legacy in Hong Kong.