Xie Yuchuan
Xie Yuchuan OBE JP (1899 – 18 May 1976) was born in Panyu County, Guangdong Province. He served on the Hong Kong Legislative Council and, after World War II, was appointed Director of Rice Supplies, managing rice distribution—earning the nickname “Rice King.”[1][2]
Early Life and Education
In 1910 Xie entered St Joseph’s College, Hong Kong, and later transferred to St Paul’s College. He graduated in 1915 and entered commerce. He worked as Chief Accountant for several foreign trading firms and in 1925 joined Shangmei Trading Company as Head of the Chinese Trading Department and Chief Accountant, rising to General Manager in 1935. He also served as General Manager of Guanghua Trading Company and Dexiang Oil Station, and as Director of Zhifeng Trading Company. He was awarded the Coronation Medal in 1953 and appointed Justice of the Peace in 1958. In 1964 he was appointed Unofficial Member of the Legislative Council and received the OBE.[3]
Civic and Social Roles
Xie held many leadership positions:
- Vice‑President, Chinese General Chamber of Commerce
- Chairman, South China Athletic Association
- Chairman, Hong Kong Chinese Athletic Association
- Vice‑Chairman, Po Leung Kuk
- Chairman, Kowloon Residents Association
- Chairman, Hong Kong and Kowloon Neighbourhood Welfare Association
- President, St Paul’s College Alumni Association
- Chairman, Rice Distribution Appeal Tribunal
- Member, Finance Committee, Education Appeal Board
- Member, Social Welfare Fund Trust
The St Paul’s College swimming pool was named in his honour during his term as Alumni Association President.
Family
Xie Yuchuan and his wife had five children:
- Xie Guangxin
- Xie Guangyu
- Xie Guangqi (1936–1974), married to Liu Yong’er
- Xie Guangyao
- one daughter
Death
Xie Yuchuan died at Queen Mary Hospital on 18 May 1976 at age 78; his funeral was held on 22 May 1976.[4]