Twentieth Century Impressions of Hongkong, Shanghai, and other Treaty Ports of China/Tsingtau
TSINGTAU.
SINGTAU is the capital of the German Protectorate of that name. It lies at the entrance of Kiaochau Bay, which runs about twenty miles inland from a point two miles north-west of Cape Evelyn. It is an important trade outlet for the province of Shantung, and as such has come to be a formidable rival of Chefoo. The murder of two German missionaries in November, 1897, led to the occupation of Tsingtau by a German squadron, and the territory now embraced by the Protectorate was leased to the German Government for a term of ninety-nine years; while a zone of interest, extending for 50 kilometres round the district was agreed upon, within which China may not undertake anything without the consent of Germany. In September, 1898, Tsingtau was declared a free port, but by a convention, which came into force in 1906, the Chinese Imperial Maritime Customs were empowered to collect duties here as at other ports, but with the stipulation that 20 per cent. of the receipts should be paid to the German Government. From 1898 to 1905 the trade of Tsingtau increased from Tls. 2,000,000 to Tls. 22,322,680. The total value of the trade for 1906 amounted to Tls. 30,572,381, an increase of 33 per cent. over that of the previous year. The year 1907 showed a considerable falling off, the net trade amounting only to Tls. 28,637,889; but in this Tsingtau only shared with other ports in a general depression. The principal item of export is straw-braid, Tsingtau having become the chief market in North China for that product. Other industries now carried on include silk-reeling, brewing, soap-making, tanning, and coal mining. Many grains, including wheat, barley, millet, and maize are grown in small quantities in the fertile alluvial plains of the Protectorate, and fruit-grafting is undertaken with great success. An extensive scheme of afforestation is in progress upon the hills.
a Council composed of the heads of the several administrative departments, under the personal supervision of the Governor, and three civil members—the first nominated by the Governor, the second chosen from among the members of non-Chinese firms, and the third representing tax-payers paying at least $50 ground-tax, without distinction of nationality. Special committees are appointed to deal with questions concerning public-house licences, land-tax, church and school matters, and poor relief. The land question has received special attention, the object of the administration being to give security of tenure to settlers, and to oppose mere land speculation. The revenue of the colony for 1907 was about 1,542,700 marks, and the treasury contribution was about 11,600,000 marks. The revenue for 1908 was estimated at 1,725,800 marks, and the treasury contribution was fixed at 10,601,600 marks.
Tsingtau offers excellent facilities for the handling of cargo. A large harbour, enclosed by breakwaters, was begun in 1899, and the first pier was opened to the public on March 6, 1904. Dredging was carried out on an extensive scale, and accommodation is now available for the largest ships. The wharves and piers are in direct connection with the railway, so that vessels lying alongside may discharge or receive their cargo with a minimum of handling. A large dry dock, capable of receiving the largest class of vessels trading in Eastern waters, was opened in October, 1905.
The construction of the Shantung Railway was begun in October, 1899, Prince Henry of Prussia performing the ceremony of cutting the first sod. The section from Tsingtau to Tsinanfu was opened on June 1, 1904. The Company to which the railway concession was granted was also given the right of mining in Shantung Province, with the result that the rich coal fields in the neighbourhood of Tsingtau are being rapidly developed.
There seems little doubt that Tsingtau with its temperate climate will soon become one of the most popular holiday resorts in China. It is only thirty-six hours' journey from Shanghai, and its attractions include charming scenery, excellent bathing, and a good band. A racecourse with polo ground has been constructed, and other facilities for sport have been provided. Substantial residences are being built on all sides, and the town, which possesses a good water supply, and is partly lit by electricity, is making rapid progress.
