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The Armenian Apostolic Church of St Gregory the Illuminator (Singapore). |
IntroductionArmenians are one of the most scattered races in the world. Whether enticed by better prospects elsewhere or forced to flee by conquest, they have put down roots in many new lands. When conditions for some Armenians long domiciled in Persia became untenable, they looked for new homes, turning towards India and later, Penang and Singapore. Although fewer than 830 Armenians ever lived in Singapore and Malaysia, they played a significant role in the social, civic and economic life of the early British trading settlements in both countries. Their achievements were quite incommensurate with their minute numbers. Not only did Armenian become respected citizens during their lifetimes, but four of Singapore’s icons owe their existence to them: the Straits Times newspaper, the Vanda Miss Joaquim orchid, Raffles Hotel and the Church of St Gregory. Based on extensive research from newspapers, church, cemetery and official records, interviews with Armenians and their descendants, this seminal book by Nadia Wright provides a documented social history of this hitherto neglected minority. Author: Nadia H Wright Paperback
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Post Publication News
My articles proving
that Agnes Joaquim bred Singapore's national flower,
Vanda Miss Joaquim, have attracted criticism. Read
the articles and my responses in:
Calcutta:
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Copyright Amassia Publishing 2006 |