FMS Railways Terminal Offices, George Town (1909)
The largest and highest building in George Town, Penang when built. A Clock Tower landmark awaits you at the jetty as you transfer from Prye (Prai) station to Penang Island by perahu across the Straits of Malacca. A conspicuous landmark from the harbour. Ferry service owned by FMS Railway.
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Hubback’s Official Post/Role: Federal P.W.D Assistant Architect
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Year Designed: 1904
Year completed: 1909
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Contractor: possibly F.M.S Construction.
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Brief Architectural Description: Foundations consist of bakau piles.
Ground Floor accommodated booking offices, waiting hall, restraurant, bar while the upper stories presented office space leased to the public.
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Also referred to as the Malayan Railway Building and today, Wisma Kastam Pulau Pinang
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Original Use: Terminal Office for FMS Railways
Original Building Type: Office
Current Name: Wisma Kastam Lama
Current Use: Office
Current Building Use: Office
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Welcome to Penang Island, An Illustrated Guide to the Federated Malay States, page 18 & 19.
“If you are in category (b) you are probably in a hurry and want to know how quickest to get from your steamer, arrived perhaps at 6a.m, so as to catch the train leaving at 8 am. Your quickest way is undoubtly to put yourself and your baggage into a sampan and make by sea towards the railway.”
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ANM Acc. No. 2001/0058460
ANM Acc. No. 2001/0058755
ANM Acc. No. 2003/0008314