Tuesday 19 May 2015

History of Singapore River

Singapore River may look like any other ordinary river, but do you know it has a rich history behind?


This smart looking guy here is Sir Stamford Raffles. He is the founder of Singapore. The statue is along Singapore River, It is believed the position of the statue was the place where he first set foot on the island in 1819. The statue is actually a copy of the original bronze statue that was place here is 1969. The bronze statue has since been moved to in front of the Victoria Memorial Hall at Empress Place, it is just a short stroll away from the current spot. The statue has been a good photographing spot for tourists as it is the symbol of modern Singapore.

Due to its geographical position and calm water. The British quickly identified it as a ideal trading port for business. In 1823, the first quay(current boat quay) was built and major companies, offices and warehouses was set up. 

Due to the growing economic activity and opportunity centred around, it attracted thousands of  immigrants. Which were our ancestors to come to Singapore to try and make a living. Many work along the river. You can see them loading and unloading goods for import or re-export in bum boats

As years go by, due to the river's inadequate and unsuitable berthing facilities, plus the dramatic increase of shipping. Trading starts to shift to Keppel Harbour and no longer at Singapore River.

References
Vernon Cornelius-Takahama. (n.d.). Singapore River : historical overview | Infopedia. Retrieved from http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_148_2005-02-02.html?v=1&utm_expid=85360850-6.qNOOYF40RhKK6gXsQEaAJA.1&utm_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com.sg%2F

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