Temple Street

Almeida Street was the previous name of the now known as Temple Street. But who was Almeida? Joachim D’Almeida was the son of the legendary Dr. Jose D’Almeida, an influential merchant and doctor such as the Consul of Portugal. Dr. Jose Almeida owned the land, where Temple Street is located. 1908 the Municpial Comissioners changed the name to Temple Street to avoid confusion with other streets in Singapore which are called D’Almeida street as well.

The Hokkiens called the Temple Street “Gu Chia Chun Hi” referring to Lai Chun Yuen Theatre (see below). Many of the patrons who visited the theatre Lai Chun Yuen were also customers of the brothels, which used to be located at the Temple Street.

The final street name came from the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, which is located at the South Bridge Road.

One of the most famous inhabitant of Temple Street was Dr. Chen Su Lan, the first locally trained Chinese medical practitioner. He was an activist against opium and prostitution and his effort improved the lives of many poor immigrants.