Let's put aside world renowned casinos, entertainment resorts, commercial and shopping complexes. Behind her veil of modern buildings and bustles, Singapore's still keep her memories of the grand events that she had seen. Reminders of these distant memories still lingers in the buildings that stood from the past.
Built in an era of colonial powers, three of such places shared a similar context; similar functions - productions. Dempsey Hill used to be barracks which produced soldiers of ranks, loyal to the British Empire; Hwa Chong Institution Clock Tower was, and still is, part of the premises of a reputable school that produced generations of capable individuals, and the Old Ford Factory produced Ford mortorcars in the old days. All three witnessed the glory of the British Empire, and its downfall during WW2, where the invading Japanese brutally trampled pride and dignity of the British colonial powers, with the harsh oppression of the innocents.
Today, the buildings are still standing but served different purposes. Except for the Clock Tower which is still a heritage icon, Dempsey Hill was converted into a haven for retail outlets and restaurants, whilst the Ford Factory is now a museum. The Clock Tower may continue to serve its purpose, but Dempsey Hill and Old Ford Factory face uncertain future in a land scarce nation where much of the old buildings of their era had been bulldozed in the name of development. So make your trip down and indulge yourself in the remnants of the colonial charms!
How to get there!
A: The Old Chinese High School Clock Tower
B: National Archives of Singapore, Old Ford Motor Factory
C: Dempsey Hill, REDSEA Gallery
