masterwordsmith-unplugged

Penang was added to the Unesco World Heritage Sites last year and I personally believe that one place on the island which is so rich in history and culture is none other than the Armenian Street area. Look at the boys smiling happily - cos we found a parking lot easily right beside the Yap kongsi.

We continued our expedition with a visit to the famous Cheah Kongsi which was restored at a quite a princely sum. The Cheah Kongsi is the oldest of the five Straits Chinese Clan associations in Penang that was completed in 1873 by a pioneer settler named Cheah Em. Unlike the other clan houses, the Cheah Kongsi clan house is an impressive building fusing Malay, Chinese and European influences in traditional Straits Chinese fashion and the facade resembles the great temples and palaces in China.The temple has a classic Penang style that is a hybrid of Chinese temples with a Chinese courtyard, a mansion and a colonial bungalow that can be seen in the temple roof, side wings and the courtyard.
The Cheahs who originate from Sek Tong village in South China Sea are members of the Cheah association founded in 1820 by Penang’s pioneer settler Cheah Yam. Upon his death, his widow Ong Sin Neoh took charge. She created a trust body and laid down the rules, thus becoming the only woman ever wield such direct influence over a local Hokkien clan association.

The gateway to Cheah Kongsi from Armenian Street certainly masks the spectacular architectural beauty that lies within. Initially, the boys were apprehensive about what to expect so their faces showed their uneasiness despite this being their second trip.
Isn't this a sight to behold?

The Cheah Kongsi has a charming front lawn and serene distinctly courtyards. The mid-19th century temple building uniquely integrates the double storey porch bungalow plan with a distinctive Chinese courtyard building layout. The worship hall proper is located on the upper floor and whilst the clan’s office building is located within the compounds of the clan house.
Cheah Kongsi courtyard temple has also been partly converted into a museum to recapture the clan’s 183-year-old history. Several pieces of original furniture and artifacts that have been saved from the ravages of time and war are on display in thematic fashion in the temple’s various chambers.
The above area is in the side wings where reports of the Clan's activities and its historical background are displayed.
The lanterns above were used for official ceremonies. So much history that has been preserved because of people who care about their cultural heritage.

Feast your eyes on the unique architectural design of this section of the clan house.
I wish I had an architectural background in order to explain and wax lyrical about the whole building but you have to see it for yourself to believe me. Some parts are very quaint and unique. This red door reminds me so much of the martial arts movies that I used to watch as a teenager.
Look at the intricate and ornamental carvings of the panel. Exquisite!

I can imagine the type of discussions that must have been held in this room (pic above). From a very young age, I have always had a soft spot for antiques. Just wish I had the following in my collection...
More pics of items that they used ...


Soon. it was time to leave for the next spot. To be continued tomorrow because I am very tired after all the walking under the sweltering heat. Good night...