Tan Kim Seng Fountain - Connaught Dr

He donated,money to build the first reservoir in Singapore.

Indeed a far sighted n generous man with a love for the country.

Full of spoofers defending the gym even at 10pm when there is not a single person in sight.

It was built in 1882. And it's in desperate need of repairs and maintenance. It's pretty but it's not a foundation anymore.

Beautiful heritage fountain (night view). Thankful for the supply of fresh water to this tiny island.

Rare find and a gem to have this Victorian style fountain in the middle of the busy city centre. The only disappointment is the fountain is totally dry and seems like it has not been under care for a while. Otherwise, this makes for a great photo point. The Tan Kim Seng Fountain is a fountain in Singapore that was erected in 1882 at Fullerton Square in honour of notable philanthropist Tan Kim Seng for his donations for the Singapore’s first reservoir and waterworks. Made by Andrew Handyside & Co from England, the Victorian-style iron fountain has three tiers and is decorated with classical figures. It was moved to the Esplanade Park at Connaught Drive in 1925 when Fullerton Building was being constructed.

Mr Tan Kim Seng (18 November 1806 - 14 March 1864, Malacca, Malaya) was a wealthy trader and property owner with business interests in tin. A prominent philanthropist, Tan left behind memorials of his philanthropy in Singapore and Malacca. Tan’s ability to converse in Chinese and English gave him a great advantage and his business grew rapidly. Later, he set up a branch in Malacca, and subsequently in Shanghai, China, making him the first Singaporean businessman to do so. In 1850, he was made a justice of peace and his opinions on Chinese issues were highly valued by the British government. He was also appointed as a member of the committee responsible for sending exhibits to the Great Exhibition held in London, England, in 1851. To increase literacy among the Chinese, Tan founded Chui Eng Si E, a free Chinese school on Amoy Street. Kim Seng Bridge, which crosses the Singapore River, was originally built by him. During the secret society clash between the Hokkiens and Teochews in 1854, which resulted in 600 deaths and injuries, he mediated successfully with the help of Seah Eu Chin. In 1857, Tan Kim Seng donated $13,000 to the government for the construction of Singapore’s first reservoir and waterworks. The waterworks were completed in 1877 and officially opened the following year. However, Tan had already passed away on 14 March 1864 in Malacca.

Unveiled 1882 at Fullerton Square as a tribute to one of the country’s forefathers. The fountain moved to its existing location in 1925. The fountain sadly is rusted, time for some maintenance National Heritage Board. It is made of iron and water fountain still works.