The ship that helped map modern Singapore

Map expert shares stories about captain of Indiana, which brought Raffles here

The Indiana, the ship on which Sir Stamford Raffles sailed to Singapore, was partially recreated for the multimedia bicentennial showcase. Captain James Pearl, who bought the ship, seemed more proud of his other achievements than his role in the foun
The Indiana, the ship on which Sir Stamford Raffles sailed to Singapore, was partially recreated for the multimedia bicentennial showcase. Captain James Pearl, who bought the ship, seemed more proud of his other achievements than his role in the founding of modern Singapore, says map consultant Mok Ly Yng. ST FILE PHOTO
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

The Indiana - the ship on which Sir Stamford Raffles sailed to Singapore in 1819 - is often referenced as part of the country's modern founding story and has even been partially recreated for the June to September multimedia bicentennial showcase at Fort Canning Centre.

But when it was bought by Captain James Pearl in 1818, it seemed unlikely that the vessel would eventually cement such a prestigious position in Singapore's history.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.

A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on June 15, 2019, with the headline The ship that helped map modern Singapore. Subscribe