OUR HISTORY
PANG CLAN
The Pang Clan (彭氏家族) is one of the Five Great Clans of the New Territories in Hong Kong, alongside the Tang, Man, Hau, and Liu clans. The Pang Clan’s history in the region spans over seven centuries, marked by migration, settlement, and cultural preservation.
Origins and Migration
The Pang Clan’s ancestral roots trace back to Yichun in Jiangxi province, China. During the late Yuan dynasty, under the leadership of Pang Kwei (彭桂), the clan migrated southward, eventually settling in the Lung Shan area, now known as Lung Yeuk Tau in Fanling, around 1190. By 1220, they established the village of Fan Leng Lau. As the clan’s population grew, they expanded westward, founding Fanling Wai and other settlements.
Establishment of Fanling Wai
Fanling Wai, constructed during the early Wanli period (1572–1620) of the Ming dynasty, became the central settlement for the Pang Clan. The term “Wai” denotes a walled village, reflecting the traditional Chinese architectural practice of fortifying settlements for protection. Fanling Wai comprises a main walled village, known as Chung Wai (also called Ching Wai), and its two extensions: Pak Wai (North Wai) and Nam Wai (South Wai).
Architectural and Cultural Heritage
The layout of Fanling Wai is emblematic of traditional Chinese walled villages, featuring a central axis with village houses aligned symmetrically on either side. Notable features include a distinctive entrance gate-tower adorned with circular gun holes, as well as watchtowers and cannons that underscore the village’s historical emphasis on defence. The village pond and meticulous design elements highlight the Pang Clan’s adherence to feng shui principles.
Central to the clan’s cultural life is the Pang Ancestral Hall, also known as Tai Tak Tong, located in Fanling Pak Wai. Originally relocated to its present site in 1846 for feng shui considerations and rebuilt in 1884, the hall serves as a venue for ancestral worship and community gatherings. The hall’s intricate carvings, woodcuts, gray sculptures, and murals exemplify exquisite craftsmanship, reflecting the clan’s reverence for their ancestors.
Cultural Practices and Festivals
The Pang Clan places a strong emphasis on ancestral worship and the preservation of traditional rituals. During the annual spring festival, clan members convene at the ancestral hall to conduct sacrificial ceremonies honouring their forebears. These practices underscore the clan’s deep-rooted respect for lineage and heritage.
Additionally, the Pang Clan participates in the Tai Ping Hung Chiu ceremony, a Taoist festival held every decade to express gratitude for peace and prosperity. This three-day celebration involves various rituals, including offerings, processions, and performances, reflecting the clan’s commitment to cultural continuity.
Economic and Social Contributions
Historically, the Pang Clan has been instrumental in the development of the New Territories. In the late 1940s, they collaborated with neighbouring villages to establish Luen Wo Hui, a market town designed to rival the Tang Clan’s Shek Wu Hui. This initiative not only bolstered the local economy but also fostered a sense of community among the villages.
Preservation and Modern Engagement
Today, the Pang Clan continues to honour its heritage while engaging with contemporary society. Efforts to preserve historical structures, such as the Pang Ancestral Hall and the traditional layout of Fanling Wai, are complemented by initiatives to educate younger generations about their lineage. The clan’s commitment to maintaining cultural practices ensures that their rich history remains a vibrant part of Hong Kong’s diverse tapestry.
In essence, the Pang Clan’s enduring legacy in Hong Kong is characterised by a profound respect for ancestry, a dedication to cultural preservation, and a proactive role in the socio-economic development of the New Territories.
OUR VILLAGE
FANLING WAI
Fanling Wai is a historic walled village located in Fanling, within Hong Kong’s North District. Established by the Pang Clan during the early Wanli period (1572–1620) of the Ming dynasty, it serves as a testament to the clan’s rich heritage and the architectural practices of the time.
Historical Background
The Pang Clan’s migration to the area began during the Southern Song dynasty (1127–1279). Initially settling in Lung Shan, now known as Lung Yeuk Tau, they later moved to Fan Leng Lau in 1220. As the clan’s population expanded, they established Fanling Wai and other nearby settlements.
Village Structure and Features
Fanling Wai comprises a central walled village, known as Ching Wai or Chung Wai (‘central hamlet’), and its two extensions: Pak Wai (‘north hamlet’) and Nam Wai (‘south hamlet’). The village’s design reflects traditional Chinese defensive architecture, featuring an entrance gate-tower with circular gun holes and watchtowers. A notable feature is the village pond. During the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong (1941–1945), the village’s cannons were buried to prevent their capture and were only excavated in 1986. Today, they are displayed on a cement platform in front of the walled settlement.
Cultural Significance
Central to the village is the Pang Ancestral Hall, also known as Tai Tak Tong, located in Fanling Pak Wai. Moved to its current site in 1846 for feng shui reasons and rebuilt in 1884, the hall serves as a venue for ancestral worship and community gatherings. Another significant structure is the Tsz Tak Study Hall in Fanling Nam Wai, built in 1846 to provide education for village children. In 1936, it housed the government-subsidised Fanling Public School until 1957, when a separate school complex was constructed nearby. The hall also serves as a place for ancestral worship of the Sze-yan lineage.
Additionally, the Sam Shing Temple, dedicated to deities Pak Tai, Kwan Tai, and Man Cheong, was erected by the Pang Clan. Originally located elsewhere, it was moved to its present location west of Ling Hill along Jockey Club Road in 1948.
Conservation Efforts
Recognising its historical and cultural value, several structures within Fanling Wai have been designated as historic buildings. The entrance gate-tower, along with the southwest and northwest watchtowers of Fanling Chung Wai, are classified as Grade III historic buildings. The Pang Ancestral Hall holds a Grade I status, while the Tsz Tak Study Hall and the Sam Shing Temple are listed as Grade II and Grade III historic buildings, respectively.
Today, Fanling Wai stands as a significant cultural landmark, offering insights into the Pang Clan’s history and the broader narrative of Hong Kong’s walled villages.
