Dive into the story of Anson Road. It is more than just a street. Anson Road is a chapter of Singapore’s vibrant history.
Anson Road got its name in 1879. It honors Major General Sir Archibald Edward Anson. He served as Lieutenant-Governor of Penang. He also stepped in as Acting Governor-General of the Straits Settlements several times. This was during the 1870s. Some say it may also honor Commodore George Anson. He commanded the Naval Far East Squadron in 1815.
Anson Road is known colloquially as “lau pek kong pnee”. This Hokkien term refers to its proximity to the Hock Teck See Temple. This temple is dedicated to the Earth Deity. It is Singapore’s oldest. “Lau pek kong pnee” means “beside the oldest Earth Deity temple”.
Picture Anson Road in 1922. The Malaya-Borneo Exhibition was held here. Later, it became Happy Valley. It was an amusement center. After that came Anson Road Stadium.
Anson Road has witnessed political milestones. In 1981, it became the stage for a historic by-election. An opposition member won a seat in Parliament for the first time since 1968. Joshua Benjamin Jeyaratnam of the Worker’s Party won. This event marked a shift in Singapore’s political landscape.
Buildings line Anson Road. The Anson Centre was built in 1971. It was an early example of tower and podium design. International Plaza followed in 1976. It was a mixed-use development. Springleaf Tower stands at the junction of Parsi and Anson roads. Fuji Xerox Towers once housed IBM.
Consider the Chinese names for Anson Road. “Lau toa peh kong hit tiau” refers to the old temple. “Ti ku pa-sat khi Tan-jong Pa-kat hai-ki hit-tion” describes the road to Tanjong Pagar from the old market.
Anson Road continues to evolve. It links Singapore’s past with its present. It is a reminder of the island’s history. It also shows its dynamic spirit. So, next time you find yourself on Anson Road remember its rich history.