COOLIES AND TRISHAW PULLERS

In the 1920s and 1930s, Chinese immigrants from China arrived in Singapore in droves by sea over long and arduous journeys. Many of these immigrants were men, known colloquially as Coolies, who were ready to work hard and make their fortunes in Nanyang, as Singapore was known then. Coolies worked in construction, agriculture and shipping, with some of them switching to pulling trishaws eventually. Many of them lived frugally, opting to save their money and send it home to their family back in China while surviving on simple meals in Singapore. Like their female counterparts, the Samsui Women, many Coolies and Trishaw Men chose to stay on in Singapore instead of returning to China. These unseen heroes contributed significantly to Singapore’s growth.  

• 55 cm x 43 cm
• Framed with triangle D-ring with Wire for hanging
• Bubble-packed for delivery