Hello
I'm currently writing a fiction book, where one of the characters is an ex-Hong Kong policeman. He would have been based there in the 1920s.
I have found lots of general information about HK in those times, which seem to have been very eventful, but I would really like to get hold of some material specifically about the police force. Most of the books I have found are from later on in the 1950s or 1960s.
It's the day to day detail I need, such as routine, ranks of police, the structure, duties etc. Anything would be useful.
I was based in HK in the early 90s with the Navy and am saving up my pennies for a return trip!
Best wishes,
Carol (UK)
1920s HK Police
The annual Administrative Reports would be worth a look. Here are the reports for 1920:
http://sunzi1.lib.hku.hk/hkgro/browseAR.jsp?the_year=1920
The 'Police and Fire Brigade' report could be a good one for you.
Regards, David
Police Museum, Stubbs Road
Carol
Without further ado you should get yourself on a plane to HK, and pay a visit to the HK Police museum located in an old colonnial era station building on Stubbs Road, as you head to the Peak.
I went there last year, and its really quite an interesting display and permanent exhibition.
It certainly covers the beginnings of law and order right through to the present, including artifacts, and accounts from the Roaring 20's.
At least have a look online, I am sure there would be curators who could help you with your research. They do have a wealth of material on the structure and rankings etc of the force back then I know.
Even the old building, and the surroundings give you a fair idea what it must have been like for the early policemen.
It was a very challenging and often dangerous occupation back then - I think they even had to contend with marauding tigers and such things as I recall!
best regards
Julian