The Old Bacteriological Institute: A Journey Through Hong Kong’s Medical Heritage
Nestled in the historic Tai Ping Shan district of Hong Kong, the Old Bacteriological Institute stands as a testament to the city’s enduring battle against infectious diseases and its commitment to public health. Established in 1906, this iconic red-brick building was the first purpose-built medical laboratory in Hong Kong, designed to combat the devastating plague outbreaks that plagued the city in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it serves as the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences, a portal into the past that educates and inspires visitors about the evolution of medicine in the region.
Tai Ping Shan Plague
The 1894 Hong Kong plague was a catastrophic event that reshaped the city’s public health policies and its relationship with the Chinese community. Originating in Yunnan, China, the plague spread to Hong Kong via Guangdong, accelerated by the movement of workers and steamships. The outbreak was particularly devastating in the overcrowded and unsanitary Tai Ping Shan district, where poor ventilation, inadequate drainage, and cramped living conditions created a breeding ground for disease. The plague, which had a fatality rate of over 93%, claimed over 20,000 lives between 1894 and 1929, with the harshest impact felt in 1894. This crisis forced the colonial government to confront its neglect of the Chinese population’s living conditions and spurred significant investments in public health infrastructure, including the establishment of the Bacteriological Institute in 1906, which we will return to later.
The plague exposed deep cultural and medical divides between the colonial authorities and the Chinese community. Traditional Chinese medicine and burial practices clashed with Western medical approaches, leading to widespread mistrust and resistance. The government’s aggressive containment measures, such as house-to-house inspections by the “Whitewash Brigade” and the forced relocation of residents, further alienated the Chinese population. Despite these tensions, the plague marked a turning point in Hong Kong’s medical history. It led to the adoption of germ theory, the discovery of the plague bacillus (Yersinia pestis) by Alexandre Yersin, and the eventual construction of modern medical facilities.
A Response to Crisis: The Birth of the Bacteriological Institute
The story of the Old Bacteriological Institute begins in the shadow of this tragedy. The Tai Ping Shan plague outbreak of 1894, which claimed thousands of lives, exposed the inadequacies of Hong Kong’s public health infrastructure. At the time, bacteriological studies were in their infancy, and temporary facilities were the only means of conducting medical research. Recognizing the urgent need for a permanent facility, the government commissioned the construction of the Bacteriological Institute in 1905.
From its inception, the Bacteriological Institute played a pivotal role in Hong Kong’s medical history. Its laboratories were equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for the time, including fume cupboards, hot-water services, and specialized equipment for bacteriological research. The Institute’s work was instrumental in understanding and controlling infectious diseases such as plague, tuberculosis, and cholera. Its contributions extended beyond Hong Kong, influencing public health practices across Asia.
One of the Institute’s most significant achievements was its role in vaccine production. During the early 20th century, it produced vaccines for diseases like smallpox and rabies, safeguarding the health of the population. The Institute’s research also laid the groundwork for modern pathology and microbiology in Hong Kong, earning it a reputation as a center of scientific excellence.
Architectural Marvel: A Closer Look at the Building
The Old Bacteriological Institute is not just a historical landmark but also an architectural gem.
Designed by the renowned architectural firm Leigh & Orange, the Institute was a marvel of Edwardian architecture adapted to Hong Kong’s subtropical climate. The complex comprised a main block and two subsidiary buildings — one for staff quarters and the other for housing animals used in research. The main building featured laboratories, a library, a photographic room, and specialized spaces like an incubating chamber and a refrigerating room. The use of red brick, double-layer Chinese pan-and-roll tiled roofs, and arcaded verandahs reflected a blend of Western architectural principles and local adaptations.
The main building, with its two upper floors and basement, features a symmetrical design and decorative parapet walls adorned with Dutch gables and obelisk-shaped finials — a rare architectural feature in Hong Kong. The use of white glazed tiles in the laboratories and the inclusion of balconies and verandahs demonstrate a thoughtful approach to hygiene and ventilation, critical for a medical facility in a tropical climate.
The subsidiary buildings, though more utilitarian in design, were equally important. The animal house, for instance, housed stables, pens, and cages for a variety of animals used in research, reflecting the Institute’s comprehensive approach to medical science. The entire complex was enclosed by a brick boundary wall, creating a self-contained environment for scientific inquiry.
From Laboratory to Museum: A New Chapter
As Hong Kong’s medical infrastructure evolved, the role of the Bacteriological Institute changed. After World War II, it was renamed the Pathological Institute and continued to serve as a laboratory until the 1950s. By the 1970s, its functions had shifted to vaccine production and storage, but advancements in medical technology eventually rendered the facility obsolete. In 1990, the building was declared a monument, preserving its historical and architectural significance.
The transformation of the Old Pathological Institute into the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences in 1996 marked a new chapter in its history. Spearheaded by Professor Faith Ho, a former Professor of Pathology at the University of Hong Kong, the Museum was established to educate the public about the city’s medical heritage. Through exhibits, oral histories, and community engagement, the Museum has become a vital resource for understanding Hong Kong’s public health journey, from the Tai Ping Shan plague to the SARS outbreak of 2003.
A Living Legacy
Today, the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences stands as a bridge between the past and the present. Its exhibits, which include historical medical instruments, photographs, and personal accounts, offer a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of Hong Kong’s medical community. The Museum also plays an active role in promoting health education, hosting workshops, lectures, and guided tours that connect visitors with the city’s medical history.
The Museum’s location in the Tai Ping Shan district adds another layer of significance. Once the epicenter of the 1894 plague, the area is now a vibrant community that reflects Hong Kong’s resilience and progress. The Tai Ping Shan Medical Heritage Trail, established in collaboration with the Museum, allows visitors to explore the district’s historical sites, including the first Chinese hospital and disinfecting stations, further enriching the narrative of public health in Hong Kong.
Conclusion
The Old Bacteriological Institute is more than just a building; it is a symbol of Hong Kong’s enduring commitment to public health and scientific progress. From its origins as a response to crisis to its modern role as a museum, the Institute has witnessed and shaped the city’s medical history. Its architecture, achievements, and legacy continue to inspire, reminding us of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and learning from the past to build a healthier future. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a medical professional, or a curious visitor, the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences offers a unique and enriching experience that connects you with the stories of resilience, innovation, and hope that define Hong Kong’s medical journey.
