Local Icons
The Salvation Army in Singapore
The history of the Salvation Army in Singapore goes back to at least 1935.
Coffee in the Basement, Tea on the Second Floor: A Short History of John Little at Raffles Place
A look back at John Little’s 170-year history and the lasting mark the store has made on our island.
The Making of the Monetary Authority of Singapore: How the MAS Became Singapore’s Central Bank
While the Monetary Authority of Singapore was established in 1971, it only became a full-fledged central bank some 30 years later.
A Great Way to Fly: The Singapore Airlines Story
Established in 1972, Singapore Airlines has earned a reputation as a well-recognised brand known for its impeccable service standards and luxurious in-flight experiences.
A History of The Padang
Kevin Tan looks at what makes the 4.3-hectare patch of green in front of the former City Hall building so special.
Labouring to Deliver: A History of Kandang Kerbau Hospital
The old Kandang Kerbau Hospital was once known as the busiest maternity hospital in the world. Joanna Tan delivers the story behind a hallowed Singapore institution.
Key Milestones in the History of Cathay Cinema
The closing of Cathay cinema at Handy Road, one of Singapore’s oldest cinemas, marks the end of an era. Here’s a look at the Cathay Building and cinema over the years.
How Changi Airport Came To Be
As Singapore’s Changi Airport marks its 40th anniversary in 2021, Rebecca Tan uncovers fascinating facts behind the decision to build the airport and how it eventually took shape.
How Jurong Bird Park was Hatched
On the 50th anniversary of its opening, Zoe Yeo gives us a bird’s-eye view of the setting up of one of Singapore’s most popular tourist attractions.
Remembering Robinsons
Many generations of Singaporeans have shopped in Robinsons since its founding in 1858. Gracie Lee and Kevin Khoo highlight some milestones in its illustrious history.
Becoming Modern By Design
The now-defunct Baharuddin Vocational Institute was Singapore’s first formal school for design. Justin Zhuang looks at how the institute laid the foundation for the design industry here.
Looking Back at Queenstown Library’s 50 Years
Paddy Jonathan Ong traces the history of Singapore’s first branch library.
From Sea to Road: Building the Causeway
The foundation stone for the Causeway was laid 100 years ago. We look back at the history of this road and rail link.
Rediffusion’s Golden Years
Singapore’s only cable radio service was an instant hit when it was launched in 1949. Barbara Quek charts the history of the pioneering broadcasting station.
The Istana Turns 150
The resplendent Istana – where colonial governors and modern-day presidents once lived – celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2019. Wong Sher Maine recounts key moments in its history.
Dieppe Barracks: “Our Little Kingdom” in Sembawang
Military camps and training areas comprise a significant portion of Singapore’s land use. What can a single camp tell us about Singapore’s geopolitical history? A lot, as it turns out, says Chua Jun Yan.
The Story of Two Shipyards: Keppel & Sembawang
Keppel and Sembawang shipyards are major players in Singapore’s maritime and shipping industry. Wee Beng Geok traces the colonial origins of these two companies.
Oriental Emporium: The End of an Era
The Emporium chain of department stores entered the scene when the retail market in Singapore was still in its infancy. Kam Kit Geok takes a closer look at a much-loved shopping icon.
Building History: From Stamford Road to Canning Rise
Abigail Huang tracks the movement of the National Archives of Singapore, from its early days in the Raffles Museum and Library on Stamford Road to an old school building at the foot of Fort Canning.
Bridging History: Passageways Across Water
The foundation stone for the Causeway was laid 100 years ago. We look back at the history of this road and rail link.
