On the 21st of January 2011, together with my AAH103 Heritage Trail group, we embarked on a journey to explore Katong and Joo Chiat area. Having done ample research on our own, we were all ready to physically check out the historical sites on the trail; even the morning rain did not deter any of our excitement and eagerness.
As I walked along and witness all the historical sites, I was overwhelmed with feelings, of how real history was actually present in our hectic and modern world. Having stayed in Eunos ever since birth, I had never gained any knowledge of such deep history, which can be witnessed, and experienced at an area just about 400metres away from my house.
For example, having frequently visited Katong Village for Pool and Snooker sessions, little did I pay attention to the surroundings building structure, and upon closer look during the trail, the bulidings are of a different architecture as compared to surroundings building, and I’ve learnt today that it was actually the Former Joo Chiat Police Station.
Also, having passed by the two ghostly looking buldings on the way the Parkway Parade, it never ever came to mind that these two building were actually the Former Grand Hotel. While visiting the Former Grand Hotel, we were denied access, however we did observe the old Reception counters and lobby used in the setting of an old Hotel. Standing opposite the Marine Parade Library and being beside a modern and posh private apartments, this historical site which has been chosen for conservation serve a reminder to residents of the rich and flourishing history that Katong/Joo Chiat used to enjoy.
It was also a fruitful trip where we met residents, shop owners who were ready to educate and impart any knowledge that they have to us. For example along the trail, we stumbled upon a Peranarakan Museum under National Hertiage Board and featured recently due to hot TV serial, “ Little Nonya “. While visiting Rumah Bebe, we also received educational packages and magazines, which educated us on the rich history of Peranakans who initially gathered and met in Katong and Joo Chiat area, leading to the rich Peranakan Culture being observed in Katong. One example will be the shophouses along Koon Seng Rd, which featured many Peranakan-style based architecture.
At the end of the trail, we were all glad that we had such an opportunity to explore along the Katong Joo Chiat area. Not just simply because of the food(hahaha), but also the different interesting facts on history that we learnt today. It has changed my perception of Singapore History being something boring, which only linger around the Singapore River area. Now I perceive Singapore History in a new light, where it can be just a weird looking bulding, which I passed by countless time, but simply did not bother to pay attention at all. The fact that many Peranakan restaurants and shops being present in Katong today, reflects the amount of impact that Singapore history and past culture has on the cultural heritage today.
I am thankful for the smart policy of building conversation and commercial reuse of old buildings to be converted into museums, into shop houses, into educational places, and restaurants. Without all such conservations and reuse, generations to follow may not ever be able to such my experience of witnessing history and watching how buildings used to stand and look like, like how I did along the trail. Personally I feel, if space allows, old buildings of each era should be conserved, because as compared to pictures and notes in museums, nothing beats the real-life experience of looking and being in the buildings itself.
All in all, this heritage trail was meaningful. Being a resident of Marine Parade, completing it and understanding all the rich history behind the historical sites brought me immense pride. The trip made me feel guilty that amidst all the effort the government is trying to conserve our history, we, however, often take such places for granted, whereas in actual fact, all we need is a little more attention and curious mind to fully embrace our cultural heritage. I’ve learnt to have a more seeking and learning attitude towards history, for history is not something of simply the old and the past, but something that is present and alive in today’s context.
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