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Empress Place Building |
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The Empress Place Building or the Government Offices of the bygone
era is a historical building, currently being used as the second wing of the
Asian Civilisations Museum. It is located on the northern bank of the
Singapore River.
Known as the Government Offices during the colonial era, the Empress Place
Building held the offices of the government departments. Built in four
phases from 1864 to 1920, the building was constructed to provide space for
the colonial administration. The original part, designed by colonial
engineer J.F.A. McNair was built by convict laborers between 1864 and 1867.
A courthouse, which is now the core of the building, was constructed in
1865. This is the place where the Colonial Supreme Court held its hearings
from 1875 to 1939. |
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Government Offices
Government offices within the building complex included the Secretariat, Public Works Audit Office, Medical Department, Registration of Deeds Office, Land Office, Treasury and Stamp Office, and the Inspector General of the Police Force. The Legislative Chamber was located on the upper floor.
Renovations and Reopening
In the decade of 1980, plans were made to make the building a museum.
Elaborate restoration work was undertaken and it culminated in the opening
of the Empress Place Museum in 1989. It was inaugurated by then second
Deputy Prime Minister Ong Teng Cheong. The museum organised five outstanding
exhibitions on Chinese history in six years. The first exhibition displayed
some precious artefacts related to China. In 1995, some logistical problems,
forced the museum to shut its doors.
The building again underwent renovations and was launched as the second
wing of the famous Asian Civilisations Museum in 2003, showcasing South,
South-East and West Asian collections.
The building was designated as a national monument in 1992.
Architecture
The building's impressive Neo-Palladian exterior, timber-louvred windows and clay tile roofs caught the attention of everyone.The rooms are stately, with beautiful columns, high ceilings and appreciative cornices and plaster mouldings. The building is acclaimed for elegant proportions, along a central axis, and symmetry. |
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