the hong kong jockey club

Sat, 02/11/2023 - 17:36

The name "Royal Hong Kong Jockey Club" is written on one of the buildings. Where is the location?

Date picture taken
unknown
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On the original photo we see from left  the Mandarin Oriental Hotel (1962), then St.  George's Building (2nd gen) (1969) and Swire House (1962).

Actually can narrow it further.

The long sleeved clothing of the people points to winter (no way is Mr Rickshaw Man sweating it out in the summer sun!)

The land behind the RHJK betting office was handed over officially by the Acting Government Land Agent, Mr Paul Potter, to the General Manager of Hongkong Land Investment and Agency, Mr Vernon Roberts, at a brief ceremony on the site as reported by the SCMP on 2nd December 1970, after HK Land had bought the site at an auction on 1st June 1970. Construction immediately took off after that.

Therefore we are looking at a period between 3rd December 1970 to 31st March 1971. And with the lack of Christmas decorations on the buildings and the presence of deep foundations laid by the pile drivers - the first few months of 1971 is the most likely date. 
 

Addendum: I think it’s actually winter 1969/70. Knowing HK, if HK Land acquired the prime location and started construction, their logos would be up around the construction site boards as per the earlier Connaught Centre construction photo. And the hairstyle and dress sense of the suited chap screams more late 1960s than early 1970s.