Toponymics: A Study of Singapore Street Names

Abstract

The book represents a lot of archival work as well as field work and interviews. The introductory chapters provide an overview of the academic importance of studying place names (toponymics). In Singapore, there has been much controversy over place names due to the introduction of Hanyu Pinyin names. Singapore street names are also complicated by the fact that the names represent colonial (western), Chinese, Malay, Indian and Arab names. On top of that, many street and place names are also referred to by various ethnic groups in a colloquial manner which is quite different from the official name. For example, lower Serangoon Road is often referred to as 'Tekka' by local population. This book will help to ensure that developers could name various buildings and other developments in a historically appropriate and culturally relevant manner. Besides its educational importance, this book will be of great relevance to all Singaporeans who would be interested to know the history and background of the street names they live in. This second edition features the addition of new and various updates based on feedback from readers of the first edition, and also includes a new preface by the authors. READERSHIP: Historians, archivists, geographers, academics and those interested in the culture and history of Singapore.

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