Cavenach-brug in Singapore c. 1870 - 1900

This photograph, "Cavenagh-brug in Singapore," was taken by G.R. Lambert & Co. It offers us a glimpse into Singapore's colonial past, a moment captured through the lens of a European company. The bridge itself becomes a poignant symbol of connection, quite literally bridging divides. Yet, we should consider whose connection was being facilitated and at what cost. Colonial infrastructure projects often served to extract resources and consolidate power, reflecting a complex interplay between progress and exploitation. The presence of small boats on the river hints at the lives and labor of the local population, their stories often marginalized in colonial narratives. The photograph invites us to reflect on the emotional and personal dimensions of history. How did it feel to cross this bridge for different individuals? Whose perspectives were privileged, and whose were silenced? It reminds us that history is not just about grand narratives, but also about the intimate experiences of everyday life.