By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Oct 29: In the annals of exploration and natural history, few names shine as brightly as Charles Hose, a remarkable British civil servant, zoologist, and ethnographer who devoted his life to unlocking the secrets of Borneo’s mysterious wilderness.
Hose’s legacy is intertwined with the rich tapestry of Borneo’s diverse culture and the discovery of its exotic flora and fauna. His contributions to the fields of anthropology, zoology, and the documentation of indigenous peoples remain an enduring testament to his passion and dedication.
Hose’s tireless efforts and enduring passion for Borneo continue to inspire researchers, conservationists, and adventurers alike. His work laid the foundation for the preservation of Borneo’s unique biodiversity and the recognition of its indigenous cultures. In recognition of his contributions, several species, including amphibians, birds, fish, and mammals, have been named in his honour.
This was revealed in a talk titled ‘Searching for Sarawak in British Museums: Charles Hose and the Impact of Colonial Collecting’ by Dr Jennifer Rachel Morris today at Borneo Cultures Museum, where Morris discussed the life and work of Hose. Morris’ talk explored Hose’s extensive collections, the motivations behind his decision to send numerous objects overseas, and the significant influence he had on shaping global knowledge about Borneo.
The talk was organised by Friends of Sarawak Museum as the third talk in its “Sarawak Snapshots: Museum Talks 2023” series.
Morris said Hose’s life and work in Borneo were marked by an unquenchable curiosity, deep respect for nature, and a genuine fascination with the people and wildlife of the island. His pioneering efforts in natural history and ethnography left an indelible mark on our understanding of Borneo’s wilderness. Through his writings and research, Hose’s legacy continues to remind us of the importance of exploration, conservation, and cultural understanding in a rapidly changing world.
Born in 1863, Charles Hose grew up in Norfolk and attended Felsted School in Essex. He continued his education at Jesus College, Cambridge University, in 1882, but did not complete his degree. Instead, Hose joined the Sarawak civil service after his uncle, George Frederick Hose, the Bishop of Singapore, Labuan, and Sarawak, secured him a cadetship under Rajah Sir Charles Brooke. Hose was then assigned to the Baram District, which he governed as its most senior official from 1888. He was appointed Resident of the Baram District in 1891.
During his residency at Baram, Hose had a fort built as a measure to control rebellions. The building, also serving as the Resident’s house and known as Fort Hose, was later turned into the Baram Regional Museum, which showcases the illustrious heritage and culture of the Orang Ulu communities.
Hose enjoyed exploring the rainforest as a pastime, and he became an avid collector of plants and animals. The founder of the Sarawak Museum, Raja Charles Brooke, supported him in this endeavour.
After his retirement, he returned to Norfolk and spent his days sharing his knowledge of Sarawak and its people. His most notable works include ‘The Pagan Tribes of Borneo’ (1912), ‘Natural Man’ (1926), and ‘Fifty Years of Romance and Research—Or a Jungle-Wallah at Large’ (1927), and ‘The Field Book of a Jungle-Wallah: Being a Description of Shore, River, and Forest Life in Sarawak’ (1929). — DayakDaily
