It Happened Here: LegCo is born
For something that sparks daily heated conversations, not much is known about the humble origins of the Legislative Council. As June 26 rolls around, let’s spare a thought for the day 167 years ago that saw in a new era of governance.
In what must have been a rather sombre ceremony in the aftermath of the Opium War, the Legislative Council was established under the official Charter of the Colony of Hong Kong on June 26, 1843.
Ushered in by Hong Kong’s first governor, Sir Henry Pottinger, the early Council consisted of just four members. Pottinger assumed the post of President, while the three other positions were filled by former Hong Kong Administrator A.R. Johnston, J.R. Morrison, Chinese Secretary and Interpreter to the Superintendent of Trade, and Chief Magistrate William Caine.
The event took place at an early version of the territory’s first Government House which was located on the site of today’s Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. Known then as the “Record Office”, it was extended by two bungalows to receive the assortment of distinguished guests.
While the years after its initial establishment would prove quite tumultuous for the young LegCo, it has (arguably, we guess) come on in leaps and bounds since then. So when the date does come around, why not take the time to raise a toast (not a finger) to the institution of LegCo.
Lisa Onland
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