The Civic District I

Tan Kim Seng - The Man

Tan Kim Seng was a prominent Chinese community leader and philanthropist. He also donated generously to the building and maintenance of a school for boys known as the Chinese Free School or Chui Eng Institute. He was also a well-respected figure, being the first Chinese magistrate in Singapore, a Chinese leader in Singapore and Malacca, a Justice of Peace and the Municipal Commission's first Asian member in 1857. He also helped in the suppression of the secret society riots in 1854 between the Cantonese and the Hoklo (Hokkien) communities.



The Memorial

In 1857, Tan Kim Seng donated $13,000 towards building Singapore's first public waterworks to ensure a better supply of fresh water to the town. The grateful Municipal Commissioners erected a Victorian style fountain to showcase their appreciation. The Tan Kim Seng Fountain was first housed at Fullerton Square in 1882 and it was moved to its present home in 1925.



Trivia

Did you know that the Greek Gods on the Fountain includes the supreme ruler Zeus?

Please click on the picture(s) to view the enlarged version(s)