[clarification needed][2][3][4] Before the completion of the reservoir in 1863, the people in the city got their water by nearby streams or wells.

Due to diseases caused by polluted water, The Hong Kong Government needed an urgent solution to the problem.

On 29 February 1860, S. B. Rawling, a clerk from Royal Engineers suggested the construction of a dam across the valley of Pokfulam to collect rainwater.

Six Historic Structures of Pok Fu Lam Reservoir were declared as monuments in 2009.

These include four masonry bridges, gauge basin and the Former Watchman's Cottage which is now Pok Fu Lam Management Centre.