View of High Street from Fort Canning

This postcard is part of a set acquired by the museum. The collection provides a glimpse into the physical and social landscape of Singapore during the 19th and 20th century which were characterised by European colonialism, the Japanese Occupation, and the post-war years. These postcards also give a glimpse into the type of architecture that was seen in Singapore in those days, as well as the range of activities, businesses, trades, and industries that the people of Singapore were involved in at that time. Some of these postcards still contain the original handwriting of the senders themselves.Carved out of jungle, High Street was the first street to be built in Singapore. Together with North Bridge Road and Hill Street, High Street was constructed under the direction of Lieutenant Henry Ralfe, who served as Gunnery Officer to one of the escort vessels that accompanied Stamford Raffles when he first arrived in Singapore.