The Singapore Cricket Club was established in 1852 and stands as the second oldest sports club in Singapore. The club is situated at the heart of Singapore to witness the many successes and defeats, independence and also the annual National Day parade on 9th August.

Cricket was first played on the Padang which is just behind the Cricket Club in 1837, but only till 1852 did the organization established the cricket club formally. The club started out only with 28 members in 1853 and later grew to about 400 in 1880s. Sports such as soccer, rugby, hockey, tennis, billiards and lawn bowls were also played at the club.

The cricketers would pitch a tent on the Esplanade, where an Indian waiter would serve refreshments from the nearby hotel. Major Farquar's tent was at the exact spot where the Cricket Club stands now and later in 1877, another single clubhouse was finally built and the second level was added on seven years later.



During the Japanese Occupation, the clubhouse was converted to a restaurant to serve the Japanese military and they even employed Japanese to be the waitresses. It was named "Yamato Butai". After the war, the club renewed its activities and opened up for their members again.

Labels: Singapore Cricket Club

posted by felinetong

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