Behold the Kwan Tai Lo Milestone. This unassuming granite giant silently guards a piece of Hong Kong’s history. It’s one of only three milestones remaining from the early British period.
The Kwan Tai Lo Milestone stands proudly. Its triangular shape is unmistakable. It measures a hefty 1.5 meters tall. Two sides display the distance to Stanley and Victoria. The measurements are in miles and lei an old Chinese unit of distance. The name Kwan Tai Lo itself is a mystery. Some believe it was an old name for Hong Kong Island.
Imagine the bustling horse path. It eventually became a road. This milestone marked the journey between Stanley and Victoria. The milestone served as a vital guide. It helped travelers navigate the island long ago.
Think of the stories held within the stone. Each scratch and weather mark tells a tale. It speaks of soldiers marching. It whispers of weary travelers making their way. It records the passage of time. The Kwan Tai Lo Milestone witnessed the island’s transformation. It saw the shift from a horse path to a modern road. It is a silent observer of Hong Kong’s evolution.
One of these milestones was found within the walls of a squatter hut. Another was sadly removed due to construction. But this one remains. It stands in its original location near the Tai Tam Reservoir. A testament to its significance.
Recently someone wrote to the government. They suggested adding an information board. The government responded positively. They plan to add a bilingual sign soon. So in the future more people will know this milestone’s story.
The Kwan Tai Lo Milestone isn’t just a stone. It is a living link to Hong Kong’s past. A tangible piece of the island’s rich history. It stands as a quiet sentinel. A guardian of the memories of this place. Let’s take a moment to appreciate this remarkable piece of Hong Kong’s heritage.