The exhibition, which explores Singapore's early history through maps, manuscripts and other significant documents, features more than 50 artefacts from overseas institutions and over 100 materials from the National Library and the National Archives of Singapore. Here are five reasons why you should visit:
1. Learn about Singapore through four different periods in history
The exhibition organises Singapore's development through four different periods: before 1800s, documenting the arrival of the British from 1819 to 1824, life in early Singapore before 1860s, and lastly, 1867, the year that the year that the Straits Settlements, comprising Singapore, Melaka and Penang, attained crown colony status.
2. Marvel at rare documents on display
Most of the 150 paper-based artefacts on display made their Singapore debut at this exhibition. This includes the Syair Dagang Berjual Beli, or Poem on Buying and Selling, on loan from the Bibliothèque Nationale de France. The rare narrative poem (syair), written in Malay (Jawi script) in 1830, tells of the working and social life in early Singapore through the lens of local writer Tuan Simi.
3. Go on a special map tour
[CANCELLED]
You will have a chance to learn more about the rare maps on display from respected map research consultant Mok Ly Yng. He will highlight a selection of historical maps of Singapore, including the Mao Kun Map, which dates back to the 1620s and is the only known map to use the name 'Temasek'.
4. Read the wills of prominent individuals who helped shape Singapore
What do Tan Tock Seng Hospital and Singapore's public waterworks have in common? Both received significant support from prominent businessman and philanthropist, Tan Kim Seng (1805 - 1864). The Penang-born merchant came to Singapore in the 1820s and made his fortune as a trader. His will and codicil, which is on display at the exhibition, gives us an idea of the extent of his wealth and his family relationships.
5. Find out more about Singapore's past from experts
As part of the exhibition, the National Library is holding a series of lectures with experts on Singapore's early history.
[On Paper] Moving People and the Making of the Colonial Malay World, 1784 - 1871
15 Feb 2020 (English)
11.00am - 12.00pm
National Library, 100 Victoria Street
Level 5 Possibility Room
Free admission, register here: go.gov.sg/onpapermovingpeople
If you are unable to make a trip down to the National Library Building's Level 10 Gallery, fret not. An accompanying publication of the same name features articles on the history of early Singapore, and of selected materials on display. The book is available via BookSG (go.gov.sg/onpaperbook).
