top of page

Father of the Fishermen

This article explores the life and legacy of Charles "Charlie" Beatty Allenby Haig Thirlwell (1918–1985)—an Eurasian lighthouse keeper who became a fierce advocate for Hong Kong’s marginalized Tanka (waterfolk/boat people) community and champion of their traditional sport: Dragon Boat Racing

An "Outsider" Bridging Two Worlds

Born in Hong Kong in 1918 to a British tugboat captain and a Macanese-Portuguese mother, Thirlwell grew up as an Eurasian in colonial Hong Kong—a group that faced significant social stigma at the time. This status as a societal "outsider" helped foster his deep empathy for other marginalized groups, particularly the indigenous Tanka fisherfolk who lived aboard boats in Hong Kong’s harbors.

Bonding at the Lighthouses

Thirlwell served as a lighthouse keeper on isolated outposts like Waglan Island and Green Island from 1937 until his retirement in 1973.

  • Building Trust: He befriended passing local fishermen by trading fresh vegetables grown in the lighthouse gardens for fresh fish and shrimp.

  • Community Integration: He learned fluent Cantonese as well as the distinct Tanka dialect, taught fishermen's sons signaling and English, and spent his off-duty days immersed in their community. Known locally by his Cantonese name, Fah Wai Lo (花維路), he was affectionately dubbed the "Father of the Fishermen."

Advocating for Resettlement and Rights

During the 1950s and 1960s, rapid urbanization and coastal land reclamation in areas like Chai Wan and Shau Kei Wan threatened the floating communities' way of life.

  • Housing & Infrastructure: Thirlwell campaigned tirelessly to ensure the government rebuilt essential typhoon shelters and provided proper onshore public housing and job retraining for fishing families transitioning to land-based living.

  • Leadership: He became the President of the Chai Wan Fishermen’s Recreation Club in the 1960s to give the community an organized voice in local policy.

Turning a Cultural Tradition into a Global Sport

To combat social prejudice against the Tanka and instill pride in their heritage, Thirlwell championed their traditional sport: Dragon Boat Racing.

  • He helped organize local races into major, high-profile events in Eastern District, laying the foundation for dragon boat racing to evolve into a popular international sport.

  • An avid musician who loved Cantonese opera, he even composed a Cantonese dragon boat anthem (《龍船歌》). First performed as a tribute in 1985 (the year of his passing), it continues to be sung at the opening of races in Hong Kong today.

Legacy & Recognition

In 1970, Thirlwell was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his public service. His lifelong work helped preserve Tanka heritage while integrating one of Hong Kong's most overlooked indigenous communities into the modern city.

bottom of page