When the Hong Kong economy took off in the 1970s, a densely built “concrete forest” emerged and became the urban landscape of the city. Fortunately, a number of nostalgic historic buildings have been well preserved amid the rapid development, allowing us a glimpse of the old days in Hong Kong. They showcase a unique blend of different cultures, as well as the transformation of the city on the one hand, and inclusion of historic buildings in the development on the other.

Materials for this collection come from an exhibition named “Reminiscences: Life in Hong Kong's Built Heritage”, from 20 January to 31 May 2017, presented by the Antiquities and Monuments Office. This collection features valuable historic building components, documents, artefacts, photographs and 3D stereoscopic images and models of Hong Kong’s historic buildings. Through the stories of Mary and Ying-wo, two imaginary figures who were born respectively in the urban and rural areas of Hong Kong in the 1920s, architectural styles of old Hong Kong are vividly illustrated through various aspects of their lives, including their birth, home, beliefs, education, medical care, entertainment and marriage. This collection also introduces building construction technology in the early days of Hong Kong and modern restoration techniques, facilitating a deeper understanding of Hong Kong’s historic buildings and the culture embraced, and sharing with the general public the experiences in conserving built heritage.

Ying-wo Mary