Tan Kim Seng Fountain.

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

With sweat dripping down our foreheads and our feet getting sore, we were extremely grateful for how close our next destination was. This was the humble Tan Kim Seng fountain.  We astounded to learn how much significance it had to Singapore History. (This astonishment had little to do with our burning desire for water at that point of time)

Tan Kim Seng Fountain 

Built in 1882, the fountain is one of the oldest in Singapore. The fountain which was built in celebration of Tan Kim Seng contribution in Singapore Water Works was originally located at Fullerton Square before it was relocated to its current location in Esplanade Park. Tan Kim Seng had contributed a hefty sum of $13000 to the construction of the fountain.  He also continued to show his spirit of generosity by contributing money to the setting up Chui Eng Free School.

With its close proximity to the nation’s biggest reservoir – The Marina Reservoir - , it serves as a fitting reminder of the man who recognized the country’s need of clean water for its continued survival. Definitely an important part of Singapore’s social history. 

Not drinking the water :( 

Realizing that we could not take any of the water to quench our dry throats, we slowly dragged ourselves to our next destination.  Not before of course taking a galore of photos at the fountain.