These two chapters are all about relics and memories. For both, the tangible objects were abandoned but its memory will either kept in people’s heart, or passing to its next owner, and new memory will be generated.
Chapter One: Industrial past
Today, there is not much left in Peng Chau to remind one that this used to be an island once thrived for its industry. The relics of Sing Lei Hap Gei Lime Kiln Factory standing at South Bay and the boundary stone lurking in weeds, reflects the scale of the industry in the 19th century. Based on the interviews we did with Peng Chau’ local neighborhood, no matter whether positive or negative the memory relevant to the industrial past is, the memories refer to the industrial past are still vivid. Those pieces of hardship and sweat, laugh and happiness partly constitute their collective memory, which bridges the past and present, providing a way of continuity. More significantly, it became obvious that it was important for the local people to record these memories, not at table or randomly chatting, but in their cultural territory and, where relevant, at the appropriate cultural site. Nevertheless, without a proper systematic record, the intangible memory will become dusty wasteland like the tangible factory ruins. The current situation is that both tangible and intangible heritage of Peng Chau are in danger.
Chapter two: Sun Sat Store
At 27 Wing Hing Street, Peng Chau, There is a small store, full of antiques. It is called Sun Sat Store, because it just opens every Saturday and Sunday, and the name sounds like sunset, a nostalgic name, just like the store itself.
