Friday, October 20, 2006

victorian style fountain right here in the city


Tan Kim Seng Fountain, Singapore
Fujifilm 9500
f8 9.85s iso80



Taken from the sign at Esplanade Park

"This Victorian cast-iron fountain has been part of Singapore's urban landscape since 19 May 1882. It was commissioned by the Municipal Council in honour of Tan Kim Seng (1805-1864)."

"Tan Kim Seng was born in Malacca and moved to Singapore to work as a trader. He prospered and became a respected leader of the Chinese Community. He was the second Asian, after Tan Tock Seng, to become a Justice of the Peace. A philanthropist, he supported numerous causes, especially education, and was the benefactor of the Chinese Free School in Amoy Street."

"During his lifetime, one of the major problems of the town was its inadequate water supply. Tan Kim Seng donated a generous sum of money to support the construction of a system to provide piped water to the town. The ambitious plans were only implemented after his death."

"In recognition of his farsightedness and community spirit, the Municipal Council dedicated this fountain in his memory some 18 years after his death. Originally located in Fullerton Square, it was moved to this site in 1925 when construction of the Fullerton Building commenced."

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