Amidst the whispers of wind and waves, lies Ngam Tau Sha. Ngam Tau Sha is nestled on the northern shoreline of Starling Inlet. It holds a captivating history, intertwined with the ebb and flow of time and tide. Ngam Tau Sha’s story begins long before the bustling streets and modern developments. Neolithic whispers echo from excavated stone tools. These tools, hammers, pounders, axes, and adzes, were found in San Tsuen, Ngam Tau Sha. They offer a glimpse into a prehistoric era. Pottery shards whisper tales from the Han dynasty.
Ngam Tau Sha’s name itself carries the weight of history and legend. Local lore claims its name derives from a poem penned by Qing officials. “The sun rises from the beach (Sha Tau), the moon hangs above the cape (Kok)”. This evocative poem is inscribed on a stone tablet at the Cape of Ngam Tau Sha. It marks the easternmost point of this historic locale. The Hakka and Hoklo people, drawn to the area after the Qing dynasty’s “Great Clearance”, shaped Ngam Tau Sha’s identity. These resilient communities, descendants of farmers and fishers, established their roots. They built a life amidst the salt flats and pearl beds of Mirs Bay.
The 20th century brought both growth and conflict to Ngam Tau Sha. The 1911 census recorded a small population within the British territory, a mix of Hakka, Punti, and Hoklo people. The Hoklo community, working the salt fields, formed a significant presence in North District. Decades later, in 1967, amidst the Hong Kong riots, Ngam Tau Sha became a flashpoint. Demonstrators from Mainland China crossed the border. A violent clash with police ensued, resulting in casualties and marking a dark chapter in the town’s history.
Ngam Tau Sha has continued to evolve into the 21st century. The once-restricted town is gradually opening its doors to tourism. While Chung Ying Street remains largely off-limits, visitors with permits can now explore other areas. They can experience the unique atmosphere of this border town. The Sha Tau Kok Public Pier, the longest in Hong Kong, now welcomes tourists on island-hopping adventures. This pier, stretching 280 meters into Starling Inlet, is a lifeline for the community. It facilitates trade and transportation.
Ngam Tau Sha, once a closed book, is now beginning to share its stories with the world. As you stand here, at the edge of this historic town, take a moment to listen. The whispers of history are carried on the wind, echoing across the water, and etched into the very stones of Ngam Tau Sha. They tell tales of resilience, conflict, and the enduring spirit of a community.