|
Fuk Tak Chi Museum
Can you guess where this miniature model of Chinatown in the olden days can be found? If you guessed Fuk Tak Chi Museum
(formerly Fuk Tak Chi Temple), then you are right.
Built in 1824 by Hakka and Cantonese immigrants, the temple began life as a small shrine. It was believed that a body discovered
by Chinese fishermen was buried at the site at the end of the 18th century.
When prayers to the dead spirit were answered, the
devotees built the shrine to show their gratitude.
As donations from immigrants started pouring in, the small shrine acquired the
neighbouring plot of land and expanded into a temple. The temple also served as a clan association looking after the welfare of
both dialect groups.
One of the oldest temples in Singapore, Fuk Tak Chi Temple has since been redeveloped into a museum as part of the conservation
project helmed by the National Heritage Board.
Besides the miniature model depicting life in Chinatown during the early days,
more than 200 artefacts contributed by residents from Chinatown can also be seen at the museum. It is the first street museum in
Singapore.
Address
76 Telok Ayer Street Singapore 048464
Tel: (65) 6532 7868
Opening Hours
Daily: 10.00am - 10.00pm
Admission
Free
Getting There
By MRT: Raffles Place (EW14/NS26)
By Bus: SBS (10, 100, 107, 130, 162, 16M, 196, 65M, 70, 89M, 97) SMRT (75)
As bus services are subject to change, please refer to SBS Transit for latest information.
Related books
Chinese Immigrants Worldwide
Photo Gallery
Click here to view more pictures
|