Edward Shellim
Edward Shellim | |
|---|---|
| Born | circa 1869 Sussex, England |
| Died | 7 December 1928 near Devil's Dyke, Brighton, England |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, businessman |
| Years active | –1918 |
| Known for | Chairman of the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation; director of David Sassoon & Co. |
Edward Shellim (circa 1869 – 7 December 1928) was a Jewish entrepreneur from England who played a significant role in Hong Kong's commercial sector.
Biography
Originating from Sussex, England, Shellim was the son of Ezekiel Shellim and Rebecca Sassoon, the latter being a descendant of David Sassoon. He became involved with his grandfather’s enterprise, David Sassoon & Co., recognized as one of the oldest trading firms in Hong Kong, where he oversaw operations at the Hong Kong branch. Shellim held the position of chairman at the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation during the years 1908 and 1912, in addition to maintaining a lengthy tenure as a director. His leadership extended to several companies, including Hong Kong Tramways, Hong Kong Land Investment & Agency Co., Hong Kong Land Reclamation Co., Central Estates, and Hong Kong & Kowloon Wharf & Godown Co. Moreover, he contributed his expertise to advisory committees for China Sugar Refining Co., Hong Kong Fire Insurance Co., and Canton Insurance Office.
In 1898, Shellim was part of the Shanghai Municipal Council and engaged with the Shanghai Chamber of Commerce. Within Hong Kong, he was appointed as a Justice of the Peace and served as an unofficial member on the Legislative Council between 1913 and 1918. His civic involvement included election to the Licensing Board, participation in committees for both the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce and Sailors' Home, leadership of the financial committee at Alice Memorial Hospital, presidency of Ohel Leah Synagogue, and membership on the University of Hong Kong Court.
Shellim stepped down from his managerial role at David Sassoon & Co. in 1918, with A. H. Compton succeeding him. Following a short stay in Shanghai thereafter, he returned to reside in England.
He passed away on 7 December 1928 at age 59 while horseback riding near Devil's Dyke in Brighton. At his death, his assets included HK$539,100 held in Hong Kong and £53,165 in England. He was married to Miss Howard, whose father also formerly managed David Sassoon & Co., and they had one daughter named Luna Eryl Valerie.