Gazing out at the seemingly endless expanse of the South China Sea, we find Waglan Island. It’s a small, unassuming islet, yet it holds a significant place in Hong Kong’s maritime history. Waglan Island is home to the Waglan Lighthouse, a beacon of hope for countless sailors navigating these often-treacherous waters. Waglan Lighthouse first shone its light on May 9, 1893. It was commissioned by the Chinese Maritime Customs Service. This makes Waglan Island’s lighthouse one of the oldest surviving pre-war lighthouses in Hong Kong.
Initially, Waglan Lighthouse was a marvel of engineering. It was one of the first in Asia to utilize a mercury bath rotating lens. This innovative design allowed a massive 8-tonne lens to be rotated with minimal effort. The lighthouse was constructed in France, disassembled, shipped to Waglan Island, and then painstakingly reassembled on this remote outpost. Life on Waglan Island was isolated. The lighthouse keepers, initially German and later British and Chinese, would spend a month on duty. They faced the constant challenges of the sea, with limited contact with the outside world. Their dedication kept the vital light burning, guiding ships safely through the darkness.
Waglan Island became part of British Hong Kong in 1901, following the lease of the New Territories. The island continued its vital role. Over time, the lighthouse was upgraded, and its light became even more powerful. During World War II, the lighthouse was damaged and its equipment destroyed by the British to prevent it from aiding the Japanese. The island was subsequently occupied by Japanese troops.
Following the war, Waglan Lighthouse was restored and modernized. In 1950, a new light was installed, hailed as the “World’s most modern lighthouse” by the South China Morning Post. Waglan Island became more than just a lighthouse station. It housed a weather station, providing crucial meteorological data to the Hong Kong Observatory. The island also played a role in communication, with facilities operated by Cable & Wireless.
Today, Waglan Lighthouse is fully automated. The island is uninhabited. The buildings that once housed the keepers and their families stand empty, slowly succumbing to the elements. Yet, the lighthouse continues its tireless work. Its light, flashing twice every 20 seconds, is visible for 24 nautical miles, a testament to the enduring importance of Waglan Island in Hong Kong’s maritime story. The light serves as a reminder of the dedication and skill of those who kept it burning for over a century. Waglan Island and its lighthouse remain a symbol of resilience, innovation, and the unwavering spirit of those who brave the seas.