SINGAPORE - More than 70 rare photographs of a miniature Noah's Ark in Pasir Panjang have been shared with the National Heritage Board for documentation and archiving.

The zoo, which was opened by Mr Tong Seng Mun in 1957, was home to animals such as lions, bears, a camel, a rhinoceros and multiple birds of paradise.

It was one of six such zoos here, at a time when the wildlife trade was unregulated.

The photos come from Mr Tong's three sons, who hope to share a different side of the nation's history and pioneering spirit with the rest of Singapore.

The board said it is hoping for more such contributions - including photos of the other zoos in Tampines, Whampoa and Punggol. If it can gather enough information, it will put together an exhibition said its group director of policy Mr Alvin Tan.

He added: "We hope that more members of the community will come forth with stories and photographs to help us piece together the lesser known aspects of Singapore's history."