[WIP] The Last Clanhouse of Ann Siang

Ann Siang Hill, a trendy hill spot in Singapore, was once the traditional home of clan associations and social clubs. Now all but one remains. 25 Ann Siang Road has been home to Keong Wai Siew Li Si She Shut since 1954, after the Japanese Occupation of Singapore. Keong Wai Siew Li Si She Shut, is an association for Li clansmen founded in 1874 by several Li sailors during the reign of Emperor Tongzhi of the Qing Dynasty.

Work in Progress. Photographs © Kevin WY Lee

Keong Wai Siew Li Si She Shut Group Portrait. July 2014.

Keong Wai Siew Li Si She Shut Group Portrait. Date to be verified.

James Lee, the president of Keong Wai Siew Li Si She Shut.

Hanging up calligraphy at the clan house.

Perusing a draft of the clan house history book.

Portraits of past clansmen and patrons.

25 Ann Siang Road has been home to Keong Wai Siew Li Si She Shut since 1954, after the Japanese Occupation of Singapore.

Ancestral Plaques on the 2nd floor.

Madam Toh waters her Bird Flowers. ‘It has a wing, a head and a tail. Look, this bud has 2 birds.”

Madam Toh is caretaker at the clanhouse and has been operating a traditional medical massage clinic there with her son for over 20 years..

Madam Toh’s clinic and traditional massage clinic was handed down by her father. Her son Ben is a 3rd generation masseur.

Lunch arrives for the clanhouse’s monthly meetings.

Portraits of the President and wife at the clanhouse.

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