The National Theatre....... this is one building that should have stayed....... http://ourstory.asia1.com.sg/neatstuff/places/concrete.html

The Van Kleef Aquarium is gone ,too.:(

Used to go there a lot when I was little.

Yeah, I still remember we've got some photos of my mum carrying me just outside the aquarium.

I remember it's rather small ,built very close to the slope.There are 3 levels ,I think.

The aquariums start from the waist level ,all along the corridor ,inside the corridors ,the only lighting comes from the aquariums.

I recall it had a striking design..anyone have any pics of it?

When I was driven by this place as a kid...i actually found it spooky thanks to the diamonds and the lack of human life around it! :D

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980006568-8105-3181-0776/img0012.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005100-8073-3222-4796/img0041.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005120-8073-3222-4724/img0061.jpg

Hmm..I dont remember this but I definitely remember the Van Kleef aquarium...

That IS the Van Kleef!

Originally posted by redstone

That IS the Van Kleef!

so whats that structure with those diamond patterns on the exterior?!:D

I'm really hazy but I believe it was located opposite Liang Court :crazy2:

On the left side of the picture.
http://www.nomadtrader.com/pics/ad5000/3844.jpg
Here's a clearer pic.

??? The National theatre is no where in your pictures! The diamonds are nothing like the one you showed!! :D

This is the one!!:D

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980006568-8105-3181-0776/img0016.jpg

Ahh thank you huaiwei! It jolts my memories:angel1:

Originally posted by huaiwei

??? The National theatre is no where in your pictures! The diamonds are nothing like the one you showed!! :D
Those are the only pictures of tne Van Kleef I can find.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980006568-8105-3181-0776/img0016.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000421-6320-3081-0202/img0045.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002890-8263-3201-0117/img0050.jpg
Here you go!:D

Originally posted by RafflesCity

Ahh thank you huaiwei! It jolts my memories:angel1: You sound so old....:D ....now dosent it look scary to a kid who thinks it looks like an evil castle? :devil:

Originally posted by huaiwei

You sound so old....:D ....now dosent it look scary to a kid who thinks it looks like an evil castle? :devil:

LOL..I only have a fleeeeeeting memory of it..and I believe it was already slated for demolition by then. Those diamonds look like fangs though;)

It's open air?

Originally posted by Cliff

It's open air? Yeah....which Singaporean will want to keep one like this when aircon culture has caught on so badly? ;)

Anyway....I heard the building had to be removed thanks to the tunneling for the CTE, or because it became structurally unsound, or both factors are related?

No wonder my parents said they had to climb Mt Faber to watch "Lu Lu" when they could'nt afford the tickets.:D

btw, that has been a mystery to me since my mum told me about it.

Originally posted by Cliff

No wonder my parents said they had to climb Mt Faber to watch "Lu Lu" when they could'nt afford the tickets.:D

btw, that has been a mystery to me since my mum told me about it. Are you refering to Fort Canning rather then mount faber? Your parents would be really amazing if they were on Mt faber!

Mt Faber?

You mean Fort Canning?:D

Ah! I always get them mixed up! Which is the one with the cable ar and which is the one behind the firestation?

And which one am I supposed to be talking about?:? :D

Cable car = mt Faber

Fire Stn = ft canning.......

I tot its basic geography and history?!?! :D

They're so clise to each other.

Oh, ya, what's the name of the ridge that lines the bottom of Singapore? Mt Faber?

Mount faber.......erm...there is a hill in between these two...Pearl's Hill.

Kent Ridge!

Haha..not sure wat he was refering to....both mt faber and kent ridge belong to the same continous geographic feature...

There is an entire thread just about them in our forums already!! :rant: :D

Link: The Southern Ridges & Hillside Villages (http://skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=74152)

AHHHHHHHHHHHH!
Okay, let me get this straight

One is Mt Faber is next to Pearl's Hill which is next to Kent Ridge, and infront of Fort Canning?:D

Originally posted by Cliff

AHHHHHHHHHHHH!
Okay, let me get this straight

One is Mt Faber is next to Pearl's Hill which is next to Kent Ridge, and infront of Fort Canning?:D ?!?!?!?! :? :? :bash: :D

http://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan00.jpghttp://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan10.jpghttp://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan20.jpghttp://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan30.jpg
http://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan01.jpghttp://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan11.jpghttp://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan21.jpghttp://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan31.jpg
http://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan02.jpghttp://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan12.jpghttp://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan22.jpghttp://www.ura.gov.sg/cudd/cawebsite/images/publicspace-bigplan32.jpg

"Southern ridges" is where Mount Faber is, and extends westward to to form Kent Ridge!!

The entire stretch of southern hills:

http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map01.gifhttp://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map02.gifhttp://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map03.gif
http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map04.gifhttp://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map05.gifhttp://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map06.gif
http://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map07.gifhttp://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map08.gifhttp://www.ura.gov.sg/pwbid/images/id-hillside-map09.gif

Erm, ok, I'll try to remeber.:D

OMG Cliff..that is terrible of you....:bash:

On the left of the third picture of the City Hall ,you can see part of the old Hotel de L'Europe.
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005492-8073-3222-5029/img0055.jpg
What a beauty.It sat where the Supreme Court now stands.

OMG! That is such a beautiful building!!!!!!!
What a waste!

Damn...I actually planned to do a thread about our lost treasures, but it seems like Redstone is doing it for me now. ;)

This thread's about currently standing old treasures.Do a 'lost treasures' thread ,if you like ,please.;)

It'll be a good companion to this one.

But you just did one that isnt standing anymore? ;)

I just suddenly thought about it.;)

Would you have the honour of doing a 'lost treasures' thread?;)

Ok then............

Originally posted by Cliff

OMG! That is such a beautiful building!!!!!!!
What a waste!
:cry::cry::cry::cry::cry::cry::cry::cry::cry::cry::cry::cry:

Here it is!:D

A thread dedicated to the lost treasures in Singapore.Pin it up at the top of the S'pore forum ,please ,Raff!

Feel free to post any lost treasures you know of ,buildings that shouldn't have been demolished but had been.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005860-8120-3181-2493/img0027.jpg
The building on the right ,beside the then underconstruction Asia Insurance Building is the Nedlloyd House ,built for the Nedlloyd Lines in 1930.It was the first building in Singapore to have an underground carpark.It was demolished in the mid 1990s for the 1 Finlayson Green ,whose base mimicks the old Nedlloyd House.

redstone, I dont think we need to sticky this thread for it will never get lost. Each time a pic is posted, it will be revived again. Too many stickies might be cluttering the main page. Dont worry too much in the meantime:)

I've mentioned before..... National Theatre

Researching for lost treasures is rather hard ,in fact I can't find any info at all about the Nedlloyd House on the Net.I got the info from a book I read about Singapore buildings.

The time between one post and the next could be rather long.

Dont worry, redstone. The challenge is to keep a thread active over a long period, and that in itself could be a driving force behind our work! ;)

Okay ,lor!

Just a bit kiasu!:D

Originally posted by redstone

Just a bit kiasu!:D Then lets hope that this kiasuism will see itself being displayed here in terms of plenty of informative posts! ;)

Originally posted by redstone

Just a bit kiasu!:D

Is 'Kiasu' or 'Kiasi', har? I oso got mixed up already.... :colgate:

Originally posted by EyeToEye

Is 'Kiasu' or 'Kiasi', har? I oso got mixed up already.... :colgate: Walao...no wonder you need the Singlish thread. :D

Cathay Building.
http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300ctb19421.jpg
The Art Deco Cathay Building ,designed by Frank Wilmin Brewer for Associated Threatres ,later Cathay Cinemas.The 17 storey building held 32 luxury apartments which housed the rich and famous ,including the building's owner Dato Loke Wan Tho and his mother.The building's 4 storey podium held Singapore's first air-conditioned cinema.The lavish Orient themed Cathay Restaurant occupied the forth floor.The were 4 antennae on the building ,owned by Radio Malaya.

The Cathay Building was the tallest building in South-East Asia and the first highrise in Singapore.

It was officially opened with much pomp and fanfare on 3rd October 1939 by Loke Wan Tho ,costing at that time , £1 million.
Opening premiere featured Sir Alexander Korda's "The Four Feathers".

Only 2 years later ,Singapore was in the shadow of war.As the Japanese bombed Singapore ,many civillians sought shelter in the Cathay Cinema.While others gathered outside for the latest news on the approaching war.Meanwhile ,British troops kept surveillance from the building's setback for bomb raids and approaching Japanese troops.Even when chaos is about ,staff kept to the schedule of screening movies.The cinema was also a temporary Red Cross casualty hospital.The last movie screened on 15 Febuary 1942 ,the day when the British surrendered.The Japanese flag was flown on the building's flagpole that day.

During the Japanese Occupation, the Japanese Broadcasting Department, the Military Propaganda Department and Military Information Bureau were housed in the building but the cinema "continued its business under the name of Dai Toa Gekkyo.Propoganda radio broadcasts were broadcasted from the antennae.


When the Japanese surrendered ,the building was vacated and Admiral Lord Louis Mountbatten.Important military and civilian meetings were carried out in the building.

The Cathay Cinema screened its first post-war movie "The Tunisan Victory" on 23 September 1945 ,less than a week after the Japanese surrendered.In November 1946 ,Mountbatten returned the building to Cathay.

The Cathay Cinema enjoyed gaiety and fame.In its golden era in the 1960s people queued for hours to catch movies.

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300hd.jpg
http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300cathay5.jpg

Massive advertisement panels for movies were placed on the building's setback

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300untitledctb.jpg

1954 ,the 60-room Cathay Hotel opened in the building, and expanded to 170 rooms later.
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005860-8120-3181-2493/img0064.jpg

In the early 1970s ,the Cathay Hotel closed down due to a fall in the hotel market.It was reverted into offices.
http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300cathay1.jpg

In 1978 ,the building was reclad by STS Leong.The top 2 penthouse floors were windowless after the reclad.
http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/3001885.jpg
http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300cathay4.jpg

An additional cinema ,The Picturehouse was added beside the building in the 1980s.

In 1992 ,the single-screen Cathay Cinema was converted to double-screen.In 1996 ,it was furthur converted to triple-screen.

Then on 30 June 2000 ,the 61 year old cinema screened its last show.It was then abandoned.In December 2002 ,it was announced that it had to make way for a new shopping/office complex.On Janurary 2003 ,it was gazzetted as a National Monument ,preserving the podium façade

Demolition started in April 2003.
http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300cbd1.jpg
http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300cbd2.jpg
http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300cbdpb1.jpg
http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300qwscd.jpg
All that is left.

The Whiteway Laidlaw Building.
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005504-8073-3222-4710/img0053.jpg
This building sat where the Maybank Tower now stands.It was built in 1910 as the department store and office of the Whiteway Laidlaw & Company.

In 1965 ,it was sold to the Malayan Banking Berhad.It was reclad ,heightened to seven storeys tall and renamed the Malayan Bank Chambers.
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002917-8262-3202-1098/img0087.jpg

In 1993 ,it was reclad the second time and renamed the Maybank Chambers.
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000770-7736-3282-3482/img0008.jpg

In 1998 ,less than 5 years after its last reclad works ,it was demolished to make way for the Maybank Tower.

That is a cool pic of the old Maybank.

Cockpit Hotel is also a lost treasure. Its pretty unique for a hotel..very elegant.

The Hongkong and Shanghai Bank.
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005102-8073-3222-4794/img0003.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005102-8073-3222-4794/img0002.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005116-8073-3222-5050/img0019.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005119-8073-3222-4723/img0022.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005882-8120-3181-2126/img0045.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005888-8120-3181-2395/img0024.jpg
This wonder was built in the early 1900s ,at where the HSBC Building now stands.

In the early 1910s ,it was heightened by two storeys.

In the early 1920s ,it was demolished to make way for the Hongkong and Shanghai Bank Building.


I cannot confirm the heightening part ,that's what I read before.

What DO you read? You seem to have a vast knowledge of such historical stuff. I'm also getting interested..next time when I have time I wanna read more too:D

Actually I forgot where I read it.

I remembered it was at an exhibition.I forgot what that was about ,but there was a photo of that building.There's a small discription there.:D

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002917-8262-3202-1098/img0041.jpg
Singapura Cinema ,Geylang Serai.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005488-8073-3222-5025/img0077.jpg
The Odeon Cinema ,North Bridge Road.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005861-8120-3181-2494/img0026.jpg
Jubilee Cinema ,North Bridge Road.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005494-8073-3222-4699/img0058.jpg
Cathay Cinema ,Handy Road.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980007383-8105-3181-0497/img0112.jpg
Orchard Theatre ,Orchard Road.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002919-8262-3202-1096/img0084.jpg
Lido Theatre ,Scotts Road.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005489-8073-3222-5026/img0067.jpg
Globe Theatre.

http://www.shaw.com.sg/shawstory/images/hoover.gif
Hoover ,Balestier Road.

http://www.shaw.com.sg/shawstory/images/grandsin.jpg
Grand

http://www.shaw.com.sg/shawstory/images/royalsin.jpg
Royal

http://www.shaw.com.sg/shawstory/images/cirosin.jpg
Ciros ,Kepple Road

http://www.shaw.com.sg/shawstory/images/skysing.jpg
Sky.

I still remember the Orchard Theatre. It was still around 10 years ago. The Orchard Cineplex now stands where it stood.

The coming of the idea of having several smaller screens aka cineplexes meant that big screens have to go if they don't undergo modifications to accommodate more but smaller screens. To the operators, smaller screens probably meant more economy gains as that provides more choices for cinema-goers. Still I thought it would be a good idea to keep at least 1 or 2 of those old screens. They could be used for archival purposes or maybe be converted into a cinema museum. Lido and Orchard were obviously going because they were sitting on prime land.

Assistance need in posting more lost treasures ,you guys can feel free to contribute ,not just me ,please.:D

Dont worry, I will post pics if I come across any. Only thing is, it will be hard for me to be familiar with 'lost' treasures..I tend to look at the future more:D

Hmmm....I found quite alot of resources in the library, but will invovle alot of scaning work and upload space....will do so when the time permits. ;)

The John Little & Company Limited Building ,stood where the Caltex House and Singapore Land Tower now stands.
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005124-8073-3222-4728/img0015.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980007377-8105-3181-0353/img0120.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005494-8073-3222-4699/img0033.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005883-8120-3181-2128/img0079.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005121-8073-3222-4725/img0044.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005888-8120-3181-2395/img0037.jpg


The John Little and Co. Ltd. building was commissioned in 1907. The architects engaged was Swan & Maclaren, the leading architectural firm of the day. On 19 October the new building was officiallly opened. It was by all accounts, a magnificent building. It was so grand that the Municipal Commissioners saw fit to slap a $60,000 rent on the firm in 1917. The firm appealed against this and the case was brought in front of the High Court. Fortunately, the firm was successful and the figure was then reduced to $48,000 per annum.

During WWII ,it was occupied by the Japanese under the name Daimaru Building.

Year demolished unclear ,but it was still there in the late 1970s.

The entrance of the Raffles Place MRT Station mimicks the pendiment of this building.A replica of it is at the East Coast Recreation Centre.

Impressive! :eek2:

Too bad its gone:rant:

The Union Building ,a.k.a. Maritime Building.Occupied the site of the current Tung Centre.
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005860-8120-3181-2493/img0066.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005111-8073-3222-5045/img0058.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005034-6320-3081-0050/img0117.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005881-8120-3181-2124/img0032.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980007378-8105-3181-0352/img0009.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980007351-8262-3202-1116/img0030.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005915-8120-3181-1795/img0085.jpg
Very deep building...

This amazing Neo-Classical beauty was built in 1924.It was still there in 1975.It was one of the tallest buildings in Singapore when built.:cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry:

It sure looked great. Too bad it had to go:bleep:

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002860-8263-3201-5037/img0097.jpg
Unknown buildings ,North Bridge Road.

Of the old treasures along North Bridge Road..the only one remaining is The Capitol?

SINGAPORE: Time's up for Times House

The wrecking crew moved in yesterday on the mustard-coloured landmark on the corner of River Valley and Kim Seng roads - Times House


The Straits Times
Friday, April 2, 2004

By Arti Mulchand

The wrecking crew moved in yesterday on the mustard-coloured landmark on the corner of River Valley and Kim Seng roads - Times House.

Once the stamping ground of The Straits Times (ST) and some of its sister publications, it makes way for a Marco Polo Developments condominium.

The property unit of Hong Kong's Wheelock group bought the plot in November for $118.88 million. The sale was completed on March 22.

At 8.45am, a long-armed crusher and an excavator began tearing at the Annex Block, while a handful of Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) staff looked on sadly.

One of them was ST news editor Bertha Henson, 39, who spent 18 years working there. 'I grew old in this building, so it's...hard to see it die.'

The night before, North-east CDC Mayor Zainul Abidin, 56, who worked there from 1976 to 1996, rushed down for a 'last look'.

Times House was the home of the English and Malay-language press for about 44 years. In 2002, they and the rest of SPH moved to Toa Payoh North.

Parts of the landmark will be saved, such as the digital clock 'above' the palm trees at the junction. It had been on the building since the 1970s.

Demolishers Loh Brothers said it took seven men close to two hours to remove it, with all 135 bulbs on three panels still intact.

SPH's head of branding and editorial projects, Mr Peter Khoo, said it will be placed either in the ST newsroom or the News Centre lobby.

Some of the distinctive tiles from the Front and Press blocks as well as the building's signage, including the address, have also been saved.

The editor-in-chief of SPH's English and Malay newspapers division, Mr Cheong Yip Seng, 60, who first stepped into Times House in 1963, is taking the demolition in his stride.

He said: 'I've many fond memories of the place where we all grew up and built our careers. What will keep Times House alive for me are the memories.'


Date Posted: 4/2/2004

http://business-times.asia1.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2004-04-02/times2-214815.jpg

This thread should not be merged. :)

Actually this thread should fit in with huaiwei's "Our Places, our lives" since it is about a place.

Well, we'll see how this thread turns out in the long run shall we? :yes:

Well ,in other forums ,there are a lot of 'news' threads ,but here ,they're always merged ,so that's why we have such few threads.Look at the construction thread ,for example.:)

Changing times
Times House, that is. The landmark building in Kim Seng Road is being demolished but the name lives on at the new SPH headquarters in Toa Payoh
By Arti Mulchand

ITS sharp jaw poised, the long-armed cruncher waited for its cue to attack. And last Thursday at 8.45am, the 20-tonner took the first bite that will change an aspect of Singapore's cityscape.

The time was up for the former Times House, the one-time stomping ground of The Straits Times and some of her sister publications.

Wreckers moved in last week for a four-month demolition that will reduce the mustard-coloured landmark to rubble.

The 112,859sq ft site was bought for $118.88 million by Marco Polo Developments, the property arm of Hong Kong's Wheelock group. In time to come, a condominium will rise up from the ashes of Times House.

But its razing leaves more than a temporary gap at the junction of Kim Seng and River Valley Roads.

The biggest void will probably be left in the hearts and minds of the many who had worked - or, practically lived - in the building.

Some showed up on the fateful day for a final glimpse, like The Straits Times' news editor Bertha Henson, 39, who worked there for 18 years. She said, as she watched the cruncher move in: 'I grew old in this building, so it's very hard to see it die.'

Also there - assistant vice-president of corporate relations Irene Ngoo, in her 40s; and her husband, The Business Times' foreign editor Ronnie Lim. Love had blossomed for them within its walls.

The demolition triggered memories for many others as well, like Money Desk editor Sia Chong Yew, 60, whose name plate was discovered still hanging on his old office door a day before the wreckers hit.

He said with a laugh: 'Maybe it was symbolic. I've worked in that building ever since I left school. That's over four decades.'

Writer David Kraal, 67, who worked there from 1959 to 1989, also felt the pangs of loss. He said: 'As the bricks fall, 30 years of my life fall with them.'

GRADUAL GROWTH

FOR some, the fondest memories lay in the building's many transformations.

When it first opened on April 3, 1958, there was just the Front Block and a double storey Press Block - with tiles in dark blue and pale grey. The Annex Block was extended in the late 1960s.

In the mid-'70s - around the time when a motley crew of journalists, cabbies and cabaret girls from the Great World cabaret and amusement park across the street would congregate at the former Hassan's, the sarabat stall outside the main entrance - the Front Block got a facelift.

Later that decade, five extra levels were added to the Press Block.

It was only then that the building took on its now famous mustard yellow colour.

But the changes it went through were more than cosmetic.

The Straits Times' editor-at-large Leslie Fong, 55, who joined in 1969, said: 'Working from there, generations of journalists witnessed history being made and, in fact, wrote the first draft of it.'

When the news hub was at Times House, Singapore became a part of Malaysia and left it, Hotel New World collapsed, the Challenger disaster happened, as did the MI185 and SQ006 crashes.

There were many more historical events - the strikes by newsmen and printers, for union members' 'time-off'-related issues in 1966 and a disappointing bonus in 1971; a demonstration in 1984 to protest the merger of Singapore News and Publications Ltd with The Straits Times Press and Times Publishing Bhd; an Internal Security Department Raid in 1992 of The Business Times for publishing key economic figures deemed to be sensitive.

As time moved on, so too did Times House. The smell of melted lead disappeared from the air as hot metal printing plates gave way to computerisation and the air was cleared of cigarette smoke when smoking in the newsroom was banned in 1987.

MORNING 'ENTERTAINMENT'

OTHER familiar sights and sounds were silenced as well.

Mr Peter Ong, 54, who worked in various newspapers within the building from 1974 till 1995, said: 'There were the presses during the night. Then in the morning, the trucks and motorcycle vendors would come and add to the racket. There were traffic jams and a lot of noise.'

There was even 'entertainment' - fights among vendors to see who would get the earliest copy. Those fights disappeared when most of the presses were moved to Times Jurong in 1981.

Famous Singapore leaders too came and went. Two presidents, Mr Wee Kim Wee and Mr S.R. Nathan, worked there. So too did Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Information, Communications and the Arts Yatiman Yusof; MP for Tampines GRC Irene Ng and North-east CDC's Mayor Zainul Abidin.

Mr Zainul, 56, who went down for a last look the night before the demolition, said: 'I was there for 20 years in the prime of my life. That was where I understood the real meaning of reaching out to the ground. I still drive by all the time and want to call on old friends, but they aren't there anymore.'

Compared to the luxury of space journalists now have at the spanking new News Centre in Toa Payoh North, Times House was a cosy corner.

Mr Fong said: 'It was cramped and messy. But the lack of space forced us to become closer. It was difficult to ignore your fellow journalist when you could smell his deodorant, or lack of.'

That familiarity also bred many office romances - more than 20 marriages were forged within its walls.

'They would exchange furtive glances across the newsroom, whisper hurried endearments through the corridors and meet for a quick coffee in the hustle and bustle of the canteen,' described Mr Fong.

TRACKING TIME

BUT journalists are not the only ones who will miss Times House and its colourful history.

Its demolition has affected many other Singaporeans as well, many of whom would have been through its doors to place classified advertisements and obituaries. About 1,800 people visited the building on a monthly basis.

And then there is the building's signature landmark - the digital clock which has graced the junction of Kim Seng Road and River Valley Road since the 1970s.

Retiree George Soh, 69, said: 'What I miss most is the clock tower. Everyone always checks the time when they drive past. It used to symbolise The Straits Times, but now, it's all gone.'

Contractors have managed to remove it intact and it will find a new home either in the Toa Payoh North News Centre lobby or in the newsroom.

Arts and culture historian T.K. Sabapathy, 65, who was a contributor to The Straits Times, likened the loss of Times House to that of the National Library, which has closed and will also be demolished.

'Times House is one of those places that is more than a building. It's associated with the kinds of activities that have very large social connections.

'It becomes part of your everyday landscape and you are comforted that it is there, even if you don't pay special attention to it. It touched people and it will be missed.'

As a pensive Mr Fong, quoting a Chinese saying, put it: 'There is no feast that does not have to come to an end.'

I think this place means alot to a certain profession, but I doubt the general public feels that much for it, which might be seen as a pity.

Anyhow, I wonder what condo is going to be built on it. If anything, maybe the condo shd be named "The Times" in memory of the building that used to stand there?

Its a Lost Treasure now

:cry:

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980007381-8105-3181-0499/img0031.jpg
Times House on the left.

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300timeshouse.jpg
Picture taken by me.

Lost maybe, but teasure......depends? Hahahaa...:D

It looks like a bus!:D

Looks ugly

http://www.streetdirectory.com.sg/buildings/239495_main.jpg
http://www.streetdirectory.com.sg/buildings/239495_closeup.jpg

The National Library at Stamford Rooad was declared open by the Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Yusof bin Ishak on 12 November 1960 ,and closed on 31 March 2004.
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002913-8262-3202-1074/img0039.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002913-8262-3202-1074/img0035.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002913-8262-3202-1074/img0037.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002913-8262-3202-1074/img0039.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002913-8262-3202-1074/img0042.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002915-8262-3202-1100/img0029.jpg
Would post more photos ,including some taken by me later.

how sad..But I hardly been inside..I can only recall going in twice because my friends had to go in. Last time was in 1998.

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300nlb.jpg
Declaration Of Opening Plaque at the staircase landing.

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300nlbdoor.jpg

Its kinda odd to remind myself that the day I stepped in about one week before it closed was the very last time I am ever going to set my eyes on those things..

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300nlbdoor.jpg

You can see the St. Andrew's Cross in this picture...

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005604-8073-3222-4385/img0074.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005123-8073-3222-4727/img0069.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005861-8120-3181-2494/img0014.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005923-8120-3181-1803/img0088.jpg
The amzing China Building ,Chulia Street.Now replaced by the OCBC Centre.

wow! That was an amazing building! I heard that it contained the former headquarters of OCBC bank.

Yup!:D

Heard that the stained glass panels that depict early commerce in S'pore that once graced the China Building is now in the lobby of the OCBC Centre.

You can see it in this picture as the white building with the green roof.

http://www.straitscafe.com/postcards/singapore1/clifford_pier_1970s_aerial.jpg

:wow:

AMAZING!!!

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005135-8073-3222-0223/img0041.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005113-8073-3222-5047/img0092.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005118-8073-3222-4721/img0085.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005136-8073-3222-0224/img0011.jpg
Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation ,built in the 1920s.

Later ,three floors were added to it:
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980007351-8262-3202-1116/img0033.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980007437-8263-3201-0166/img0083.jpg

they seem to have a carpark in the middle of no where...haha

what a grand building! they shouldnt have demolished it! :rant:

http://www.larkin.net.au/singapore_lah/image/singapore_things_015.jpg
http://www.larkin.net.au/singapore_lah/image/singapore_things_018.jpg
http://www.users.bigpond.com/seu/images/cathay_large.jpg
http://img2.photobucket.com/albums/v11/rekraft/site2.jpg
http://img2.photobucket.com/albums/v11/rekraft/site3.jpg
God ,I just found these sad pictures.

I miss the idea of the Cathay Building being gone, but I dont find it spectacular. I would rather it go than the old HSBC building.

http://www.users.waitrose.com/~g8jan/html%20files/pictures/places/Singapore%201958/cathay.jpg
Well ,it WAS the first skyscraper in SEA!

I don't believe it!

Bowyer Block in the 1980s:
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005783-8106-3181-7863/img0066.jpg
Now:
http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300bb.jpg

It had made way for......a CARPARK!!!

The original building:
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005608-8073-3222-4391/img0005.jpg
I can't believe it was overlooked for preservation!

It looks similar to the one at Fort Canning Hill

Just discovered a shop in Peninsula shopping centre that sells old postcards dating back to the 60s and maybe even earlier. Bought some myself and will definitely be going back for more. You guys might want to check that out.

Address: Tian Stamps & Postcards
3 Coleman Street
Peninsula Hotel and Shopping Centre #04-24

Dennis is the owner.

Thanks..I was walking at Chinatown Point earlier tonight and came across an old stamp shop with nice large prints of old buildings of Sg. Pretty interesting.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005144-8073-3222-0228/img0106.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005122-8073-3222-4726/img0019.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005122-8073-3222-4726/img0023.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980006567-8105-3181-0775/img0109.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980006567-8105-3181-0775/img0110.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005506-8073-3222-4712/img0097.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980007371-8262-3202-1078/img0066.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005845-8106-3181-7832/img0092.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005506-8073-3222-4712/img0098.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002861-8263-3201-5038/img0084.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980007371-8262-3202-1078/img0072.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980006567-8105-3181-0775/img0113.jpg
What might be the most spectecular residence here, the grand Eu Villa was built as the home of the wealthy Eu Family, the famous member was non other than Eu Tong Sen himself.This villa sits on a huge plot of land atop Mount Sophia.Located at Adis Road, it overlooked the City.Somehow, it was overlooked for preservation and was demolished in the early 1980s, replaced by some condos.But not all of the Villa is gone.The old wall, which prevented the soil at the villa from sliding down, is still around. :cry: :bash:

OMG That is sooo grand! Imagine if they preserved it and lighted it up @ night :eek:

http://www.users.waitrose.com/~g8jan/html%20files/pictures/places/Singapore%201958/cathay.jpg
Well ,it WAS the first skyscraper in SEA!

I remember my family used to walk by it on our way from church to Plaza Singapore and we would always stop by the snacks stand for some kachang putih... sigh.... memories....

http://www.spi.com.sg/spi_files/haw_par/pic_misc/hawpar02.jpg
The villa which gave Haw Par Villa its name.It was built in 1937, by Ho Kwong Yew.It was damaged during WWII and was torn down shortly after the end of the war.

The villa has a very unique roof! I read that Ho Kwong Yew did not survive the Japanese Occupation.

That I'm not sure, but his company still exists today, with its 'trademark' roundish buildings.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005845-8106-3181-7832/img0095.jpg
Haw Par Villa

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005116-8073-3222-5050/img0061.jpg
Unknown buildings.A corner building and a tower.
Junction of Robinson Road & Market Street.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005608-8073-3222-4391/img0026.jpg
Ellenborough Market

Good finds!

btw this thread is just depressing!

Haw Par Villa is a masterpiece!

The Arcade, stood at the building of the same name now.


Old The Arcade:
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005106-8073-3222-5040/img0045.jpg


Newer The Arcade:
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005673-8073-3222-1057/img0105.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000278-6313-3021-0533/img0003.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005113-8073-3222-5047/img0091.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980001358-8151-3231-2016/img0065.jpg
Meyer Building, opposite St Andrew's Cathedral. :cry:

OMG the Arcade was amazing! :eek2:

I think there were many buildings around the City Hall area that were torn down and replaced with crap, espcially those next to the Capitol.

Meyer Building, built in the 1920s, I think.If I recall correctly, it was an office.

Near it was also another building with the name Meyer, Singapore's first apartment tower, also built in the 1920s or 1930s.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980007377-8105-3181-0353/img0093.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005503-8073-3222-4709/img0072.jpg
The Adelphi Hotel
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005492-8073-3222-5029/img0055.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005099-8073-3222-4827/img0112.jpg
Hotel De l'Europe

Both were demolished and replaced by very ugly buildings!

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005745-8106-3181-7874/img0100.jpg
Aerial of the area. :cry:

Huaiwei might be interested :D :


http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005857-8120-3181-2490/img0067.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005857-8120-3181-2490/img0059.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005112-8073-3222-5046/img0093.jpg
^Central Police Station, South Bridge Road.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000833-8529-3201-1794/img0033.jpg
^Joo Chiat Police Station

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005646-8073-3222-0198/img0094.jpg
^Tanjong Pagar Police Station (older than the one above?)

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005857-8120-3181-2490/img0069.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005120-8073-3222-4724/img0062.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005888-8120-3181-2395/img0062.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005107-8073-3222-5041/img0056.jpg

OMG! These are crazy! :eek:

How do you find these pics redstone? I mean you cant have known they existed before.

Oh, no.

Some were purely accidential finds.

Some, for example I want to find old pictures of police stations, I simply type the search into A2O, and the pictures come out. ;)

http://www.a2o.com.sg/public/search/index.html
Just type here.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005491-8073-3222-5028/img0010.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005119-8073-3222-4723/img0013.jpg
:cry:

OMG! What a grand piece! I dunno what on earth they were thinking - Singapore's old waterfront was equally as impressive as Shanghai's Bund.

Also that unidentified tower near it.Can't find any aerials that show it.Must be very old.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005112-8073-3222-5046/img0033.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005880-8120-3181-2123/img0066.jpg
Another very commonly photographed building, appeared in many old photos.Yet, its identity is still a mystery.

That EU mansion was amazing - looks Edwardian in style to me, so probably built just around or after the turn of the century. Amazing that in those days (not that long ago), there was no regard for heritage conservation - and now all we have are photos. What a shame.

I can't believe it was overlooked.Preservation of buildings started in the early 1970s, and yet the Villa was overlooked.

Firstly, it was situated on a hill.
Secondly it is very big.
Thirdly, it has a very high roof.

Meaning?
It was very, very visible from the surrounding area! :bash:

redstone, one thing is certain: you yourself are a treasure! :master:

Your knowledge of Singapore's old and vanished buildings, your ability to find pictures, and your love of those buildings, along with your dedication towards preserving those that remain, are truly exemplary. :okay:

And, best of all: you're not one of Singapore's lost treasures! :)

Um, sometimes they're just purely accidential finds by me. :D

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005117-8073-3222-5051/img0071.jpg
Caption: Junction of Hill Street & Stamford Road

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005119-8073-3222-4723/img0026.jpg
Caption: AT THE JUNCTION OF CHULIA (FOMERLY KLING) STREET & BONHAM STREET IS OCCUPIED BY THE ORNATE BONHAM BUILDING

http://skyscraperpage.com/gallery/data/500/300whatisthis.jpg
Does anyone know what are those 2 buildings I circled?

Are they still there?

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005075-8073-3222-4822/img0055.jpg
There goes CP!

:fiddle: :fiddle: :fiddle:

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005698-8120-3181-1669/img0014.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005788-8106-3181-7918/img0097.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005788-8106-3181-7918/img0098.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005789-8106-3181-7341/img0018.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000818-8529-3201-1009/img0008.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000865-8529-3201-1868/img0005.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000818-8529-3201-1009/img0007.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000865-8529-3201-1868/img0013.jpg

those first few pics were sketches by the prisoners in WW2?

Nope theyre no more there.

The one on the right is the present site of 1 George St and the one opposite is an empty green field with the police station.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000854-8529-3201-1051/img0016.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000854-8529-3201-1051/img0017.jpg

what was it used for?

btw there are several new books on SIngapore's historic building, one was recently released and features the Heritage Board's restored works

I saw a pic of the other one on A2O before.

THIS!!!!!!!!!!!
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005104-8073-3222-5038/img0032.jpg

Yes...

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000854-8529-3201-1051/img0007.jpg

This thread had surpassed a year! :banana:

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005861-8120-3181-2494/img0026.jpg
Jubilee Cinema, Nth Bridge Road...

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005114-8073-3222-4722/img0119.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002919-8262-3202-1096/img0113.jpg
Raffles Girls' School, now replaced by SMU... :cry:

:? I thought RafflesCity mentioned SMRT not SMU?

Ummm... Now I'm kinda confused...
Now I think it IS SMRT HQ... :lol:

This thread had surpassed a year! :banana:

And the anniversary is in no small part due to you, redstone, and your knowledge of and dedication to Singapore's historic architecture! :love:

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005676-8073-3222-1063/img0077.jpg
The closest pic of the mysterious tower.
Now we know its fate...
Destroyed during the war.

Thats awful! :eek2:

Is that Victoria Concert Hall?

No, an uidentified building with a tower in the Battery Road vicinity.

well, where is the old pic that showed it standing mysteriously?

FOUND IT!!! :D :banana:
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005121-8073-3222-4725/img0037.jpg

Interesting to note that the picture is left-right inverted! :D

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005783-8106-3181-7863/img0077.jpg
Ain't it just sad?

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005783-8106-3181-7863/img0063.jpg

what building was that? and where was it? :eek:

Bowyer Block, SGH. Now only the centre portion remains...
Wierd eh?

didn't notice that at SGH. next time, I'll keep a lookout for it. wow!

Where exactly in SGH?

I think the clocktower is still there...although I dunno...

It's right at the centre of SGH, connected to the Eye Centre by a walkway. Around it is a CARPARK.

The surrounding buildings are taller than the clock tower. Now they're gonna turn it into a museum...

thats good, a museum :)

Is this still around?
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000814-8529-3201-1000/img0032.jpg
Caption:
''SALMON MATERNITY HOME'', A SMALL PRIVATE HOSPITAL

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005700-8120-3181-1678/img0107.jpg
"GROUP PHOTO OF STAFF OF SUBORDINATE COURT AT SOUTH BRIDGE RD"

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005867-8120-3181-2502/img0020.jpg
Nan Chiau High

Theatre for the people, by the people

30 Apr 05

By Yeo Ghim Lay

FROM the 1960s to the 1980s, the performing arts here were synonymous with the National Theatre, a local landmark in its heyday.

http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2005-04-30/h11b.jpg

Situated at Fort Canning Park in River Valley Road, the 3,420-seat theatre was the biggest performance venue in Singapore then, and had a revolving stage.

But its size was not what most remember it fondly for. The theatre was dubbed 'the people's theatre' because Singaporeans from all walks of life had contributed to its construction.

The plan to build a theatre to commemorate Singapore's self-governance was announced in 1959. A year later, then culture minister S. Rajaratnam urged every citizen to contribute to the theatre fund in a dollar-a-brick campaign.

Donations poured in from all sectors - besides cultural associations and trade unions, the man in the street contributed as well. Shopkeepers, hawkers and labourers pooled their money, while schoolchildren broke their piggy banks - all to help build the theatre.

A total of $850,000 was raised for the $2.2 million building, which was officially opened on Aug 8, 1963 for the South-east Asian Cultural Festival.

However, the fanfare over the theatre soon gave way to criticism.

Audiences complained that the open-air venue was impractical, letting rain and surrounding traffic noise in. It was also home to insects and birds, hardly ideal companions during a classical music concert.

More than 20 years after it had opened, a team of engineers found the theatre structurally unstable. Its 150,000kg steel cantilever roof, suspended without pillars, needed reinforcements.

But renovating and enclosing the theatre would mean parting with at least $12 million, a cost that was deemed too steep.

Plans for an extension of the Central Expressway next to the building further stacked the odds against its survival.

The theatre had its last curtain call after an Indian musical on Jan 15, 1984 and was demolished two years later, despite pleas for its retention from sentimental Singaporeans.

tts soooooo sad...

I somehow got this feeling that structural integrity was just a convenient excuse to get rid of something someone up there didn't like.

1920 - CAPITOL THEATRE AT NORTH BRIDGE ROAD, SINGAPORE (C1920)

hanging cables?

http://img205.echo.cx/img205/5337/img00430lm.jpg

cool pics

there were quite a lot more nicer buildings further down N Bridge Rd

:yes: but, were not preserved :(

1920 - CAPITOL THEATRE AT NORTH BRIDGE ROAD, SINGAPORE (C1920)

hanging cables?

http://img205.echo.cx/img205/5337/img00430lm.jpg

Look at the right. Those cables are for trolley buses.

Look at the right. Those cables are for trolley buses.

I noticed. Is similar to that in HK. :)

cables for trolley buses....those were the days...

What a fantastic thread. I've been overwhelmed by nostalgia by all your contribitions. I lived in Singapore from 1960 - 1964 in Wing Loong Road (now gone) in Changi and have been trying to fing reference to the Van Kleef Aquarium for years. I have some of my Father's photographs of the period you may be interested in seeing - only I don't know how I gain those posting rights.

By the way, has anyone got reference to the cinema in Changi Village circa 1962 - even its name.

Thanks
Jonty.

Hi, Jonty! :D :wave:

The best place to go is the National Archives' portal http://www.a2o.com.sg/public/search/index.html

The Malay name for village is 'kampong' or 'kampung'. Maybe you might be able to find some things there. :)

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=69730
More here, old photos from Singapore...

Lost Roads
(As in 1996)

Currently SOHO @ Central. Formerly:
Ellenborough Street
Tew Chew Street
Chin Hin Street

Currently Parkview Square and field. Formerly:
Clyde Street
Fraser Street
Garden Street
Shiak Madersah Lane
Ark Lane
Sin Koy Lane

Currently empty strip behind New 7th Storey Hotel. Formerly:
Farquhar Street
Bernard Street
Beach Lane

Currently field behind Rochor Centre. Formerly:
Johore Street

Currently Sengkang Town. Formerly:
Track 1
Buangkok North Farmway 1
Buangkok North Farmway 2
Buangkok North Farmway 3
Buangkok North Farmway 4
Buangkok South Farmway 1
Buangkok South Farmway 2
Buangkok South Farmway 3
Buangkok South Farmway 4
Buangkok South Farmway 5
Lorong Buang Kok (still exists)
Jalan Merdu (still exists)
Lorong Renjong
Jalan Seranggong Kechil
Cheng Lim Farmway 1
Cheng Lim Farmway 3
Lorong Cheng Lim

The site where the National Library now stands used to have some roads as well. It was a red light district before WW2.

An empty field in 1996.....

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005646-8073-3222-0198/img0071.jpg
Estate of Seah Liang Seah

Wow! I just found this very nice shophouse! Never seen it before, but I absolutely love the colours, very stylish and elegant.
http://www.ura.gov.sg/conservation/images/74em.jpg

anyone knows where it is located?

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005646-8073-3222-0198/img0071.jpg
Estate of Seah Liang Seah

which part of Singapore is this???

who was Seah?

Seah Liang Seah. Seah and Liang Seah Streets named after him.

Seah was a spices merchant, I think.


'seah liang seah' sounds like 'sound twice' in dialect Chinese! :lol:

Estate at Serangoon Road.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002917-8262-3202-1098/img0091.jpg
Estate of Hoo Ah Kay, called Bendemeer House.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/PCD0108-6319-6319-0108/img074.jpg
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/PCD0108-6319-6319-0108/img073.jpg

omg :eek2:

Hoo Ah Kay (Whampoa), I read about his villa and that he held lavish parties in it! They should have preserved it just as they preserved Sun Yat Sen Villa!

Very grand and very very das indeed. :cry:

Bendemeer was the name of his villa. It sat on where Bendemeer estate is now.

Jade House, 3 Nassim Road

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000391-6320-3081-0511/img0102.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002387-8105-3181-0796/img0111.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005293-8073-3222-4062/img0031.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002387-8105-3181-0796/img0112.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980002387-8105-3181-0796/img0112.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980000391-6320-3081-0511/img0098.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005432-8073-3222-4992/img0120.jpg

Looks like they didn't know what they wanted the house to look like and ended up with a bit of everything.

In the later part of it's life, Jade House was a museum, no a residence. ;)

somehow it reminds me of hearst castle though :X

I'm sure it is and it has also became the precedent for residentials (done in the 90s) which were done in bad taste.

The time it was converted into a museum was in the 1960s, I believe. ;)

Won't You come home Bill Bailey?

I wonder if any of the younger residents know of Singapore's connection with this famous old song of the Jazz era.

Apparently Bill Bailey lived in Singapore before WWII and operated a bar.

After the war he ran the Coconut Grove Bar which was in one of the old colonial houses in the Orange Grove area.

A group of friends and myself stumbled on the old bar [Bill Bailey was long dead] one night in 1970 as we wandered along Orange Grove Road at a very late hour after a good night out :cheers: .

The place was set well back from the road and in a very overgrown tropical garden.

It was fascinating to go inside - like entering a time warp.

Here is a photo of the bar

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v387/DennisN/CoconutGrove.jpg

Bill Bailey [from an internet file somewhere.]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v387/DennisN/BillBailey.jpg

Would anybody know if this wonderful old piece of Singapore history has been preserved?

It ws in the Orange Grove Road area - that's all I can remember.

Orange Grove Road is now all new buildings, only left a few old bungalows. :(

But there's a huge old building at Ladyhill, saw from Google Earth. Any idea what that is?

But there's a huge old building at Ladyhill, saw from Google Earth. Any idea what that is?

There was an extremely nice boutique hotel in the Ladyhill Road area in the sixties and seventies.

Interesting to note that it was actually callled the Ladyhill Hotel :)

They served wonderful satays in an outdoor garden setting near their pool

I don't see it marked on any Singapore Street Directory any more.

Has this vanished as well?

The Ladyhill Hotel has been converted into a luxurious condominium...

http://www.myhome.com.sg/ladyhill/index.shtml

http://singaporeexpats.com/singapore-property-pictures/condo/the-ladyhill.htm

There was an extremely nice boutique hotel in the Ladyhill Road area in the sixties and seventies.

Interesting to note that it was actually callled the Ladyhill Hotel :)

They served wonderful satays in an outdoor garden setting near their pool

I don't see it marked on any Singapore Street Directory any more.

Has this vanished as well?

The huge colonial building I'm talking about is here:
http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/9918/lh9zu.jpg
With reddish brown roof.

The blue roofed building is Shangri-La Hotel.
And I presume the complex with a pool opposite Shangri La is old Ladyhill Hotel? I can't find pics of it...

Any idea what that huge building is?

Raffles Institution demolition!!!! :runaway:

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005068-8073-3222-4832/img0048.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005068-8073-3222-4832/img0051.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005068-8073-3222-4832/img0055.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005068-8073-3222-4832/img0065.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005068-8073-3222-4832/img0059.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/data/tn_pcd/19980005068-8073-3222-4832/img0069.jpg

How sad.

Today you can still see the replica of it at the Raffles City complex.

Singapore is now at a different stage of development...I dont think such large scale demolition will occur again without at least some attempt at integration.

It's really very sad.

The most historic school. Although the building isn't an archi masterpiece, the historic and heritage value is priceless. :cry:

Do you have a good clear pic of it?

The design looks like Empress Place

what really induce a place to preseve its heritage and memories?

Eu Villa, the residence of the Eu Tong Seng family

Eu Villa Family home of Eu Tong Sen, of the Eu Yan Sang Chinese medical halls. Built in Mount Sophia in 1914 in the Edwardian Baroque style, Eu Villa was once one of the largest residences in Singapore. Designed by the firm of Swan & Maclaren, it was a five- storey building with a dome over the double- storey entrance, and a sub- basement which accommodated a kitchen and cellar. The main living areas were in the front of the building. These afforded magnificent views of the town and harbour, while the bedrooms (numbering more than ten) were located in the rear. The house, which cost $1 million to build, was one of the first buildings in Singapore to be partially constructed in reinforced concrete with steel bars. It was used as the residence of the extensive Eu family (Eu Tong Sen had six registered wives and numerous other ‘companions’) until 1973, when it was sold. It was demolished in the early 1980s to develop a condominium project.


http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980007371-8262-3202-1078/img0067.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980007371-8262-3202-1078/img0073.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980007371-8262-3202-1078/img0066.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980007371-8262-3202-1078/img0068.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980007371-8262-3202-1078/img0071.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980007371-8262-3202-1078/img0072.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980000845-8529-3201-1040/img0035.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005122-8073-3222-4726/img0076.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005506-8073-3222-4712/img0094.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005506-8073-3222-4712/img0098.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005506-8073-3222-4712/img0102.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980006567-8105-3181-0775/img0108.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980006567-8105-3181-0775/img0111.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980006567-8105-3181-0775/img0115.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980006567-8105-3181-0775/img0116.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980006567-8105-3181-0775/img0113.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980006567-8105-3181-0775/img0110.jpg

It is gorgeous. I never would have thought that it is in Singapore. Anyway, since they do have the Masterplan, it could be rebuilt elsewhere. The house does resembles the mansion and villa near the coast of France and England. Although only the wealthy would live still in it. The Frescoes, cornices and mosaics are architecture marvels...

A simple compilation of lost buildings and their current site.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005123-8073-3222-4727/img0071.jpg

Viewing from the current site of Marina Bay Sands, right to left:

The first plot current address No. 21 Collyer Quay, at the corner of Collyer Quay and Fullerton Square

Unknown building, photo dated 1890s. The curved building, not the one with the tower
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20090000491-8086-47MD-0197/img0018.jpg

Hongkong and Shanghai Bank, b.1895

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005128-8073-3222-0215/img0020.jpg

Hongkong and Shanghai Bank, b. 1925, height extended 1950s, demolished 1970

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005136-8073-3222-0224/img0011.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19990003459-9347-3061-2305/img0035.jpg

HSBC Building, b. 1970s reclad 2008
http://www.glasssteelandstone.com/Images/SG/Singapore/HSBCBuilding-002a.jpg

Currently Tung Centre, address No. 20

The greatest architectural loss

These 2 buildings, the one with the tower and the terrace

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005491-8073-3222-5028/img0017.jpg

Union Building, b. 1924
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005038-6320-3081-0033/img0036.jpg

Tung Centre
http://www.streetdirectory.com/stock_images/travel/show_resize_image.php?imageId=11183751090192&pos=portrait

No. 18 Collyer Quay currently the plot is part of Hitachi Tower

second building from the right:

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005156-8073-3222-4436/img0086.jpg

Winchester House, c. 1910

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005038-6320-3081-0033/img0036.jpg

Winchester House, 1940s
http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/PCD0135-6319-6319-0135/img050.jpg

Hitachi Tower, 1992
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/97/Hitachi_Tower%2C_Dec_05.JPG/200px-Hitachi_Tower%2C_Dec_05.JPG

Between Winchester and Shell House was Change Alley

15 Collyer Quay later marked G.H. Kiat & Co. Ltd,

Building with corner tower, appearing in photos as late as 1860s

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005493-8073-3222-4698/img0070.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005038-6320-3081-0033/img0036.jpg

An early skyscraper, the new Shell House built 1950s:

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20080000052-6258-2121-9791/img0081.jpg

Hitachi Tower, 1992
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/97/Hitachi_Tower%2C_Dec_05.JPG/200px-Hitachi_Tower%2C_Dec_05.JPG

14 Collyer Quay, currently occupied by Clifford Centre

A building with central tower

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005902-8120-3181-2405/img0010.jpg

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005038-6320-3081-0033/img0043.jpg

An early skyscraper, the new Shell House built 1950s:

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/20080000052-6258-2121-9791/img0081.jpg

Hitachi Tower, 1992
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/97/Hitachi_Tower%2C_Dec_05.JPG/200px-Hitachi_Tower%2C_Dec_05.JPG

13 Collyer Quay 2 storey building with corner tower. Seen in photos of 1860s, demolished in 1960s

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/PCD0133-6319-6319-0133/img061.jpg

12 Collyer Quay a building with corner tower, mirroring No. 13. Demolished 1920s for Shell House.

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980006620-8105-3181-1006/img0064.jpg

Shell House, 12 Collyer Quay

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/PCD0091-6319-6319-0091/img020.jpg

Both are now part of Clifford Centre

The Arcade, 11 Collyer Quay a shopping arcade built by the Alkaff family.


http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005915-8120-3181-1795/img0012.jpg


http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005673-8073-3222-1057/img0105.jpg


Now replaced with The Arcade:

http://i2.propertyguru.com.sg/images/thumb/e/9/f/a/e9fa753190168_1_V550.jpg

Unknown building

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/PCD0405-EA16-11F2-3F10/img0073.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/snapsg/3149292935/

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/PCD0489-EA16-11F2-3F10/img0043.jpg

Now replaced by Ocean Towers. The street beside it is Prince Street, now built over

3 successions of Ocean Building

Ocean Building, 1894-1919

http://picas.nhb.gov.sg/picas/data/tn_pcd/19980005504-8073-3222-4710/img0056.jpg

Ocean Building, 1924 - 1969
http://202.172.178.226/DJVUServer/getImage.jsp?file=/picas_data/tn_pcd/19980005900-8120-3181-2403/img0107.jpg

Ocean Building, 1974 - 2007
http://www.streetdirectory.com/stock_images/travel/simg_show/11048348070258/1/ocean_building/

Very nice posts redstone :bow: Thanks!

Thoroughly enjoyed the photos. The Prince Restaurant (太子楼） photo brings back memories I thought were long lost. A big Thank You to redstone for sharing.:applause::applause::applause:

Thoroughly enjoyed the photos. The Prince Restaurant (太子楼） photo brings back memories I thought were long lost. A big Thank You to redstone for sharing.:applause::applause::applause:

I saw old maps stating that street beside it is called Prince Street. Then I also saw the current De Souza Street, which is the driveway into the ex-Ocean Bldg. Was Prince renamed De Souza before?