1. THE STATE REST HOUSE
During the 1950s there were 2 rest houses in town namely, State Rest House and Town Rest House.The STATE REST HOUSE was a wooden building that once occupied the land opposite the present McDonalds in the Lake Gardens. It was demolished during the 1960s.
However, a new complex with a double storey building and VIP wing was built on the land that was once British Residency. The last occupant was a British army general. The building was demolished but the round brick pillars were preserved and are still standing until today.
During the heyday of the REST HOUSE these pillars were popular with wedding couples for photo shoot.The Rest House was very popular for meetings and events. The VIP wing was well furnished with the balcony over looking the lake gardens. One unit was specially reserved for royalty while the other was for other VIPs.
To-day the rest house complex is abandoned and the beautiful surroundings are over grown with weeds and secondary jungle.
2. THE TOWN REST HOUSE
The TOWN REST HOUSE along Jalan Stesen was built in 1894. It is a well known building as it is part of the heritage trail. The rest house was to complement the first railway station which was just opposite to meet the needs of travellers. It was popular then as there were not many hotels in town. During general elections the place was the meeting/focal point for supporters of political parties to get together before marching with the candidate/s to the nomination centre.
To-day the heritage building is an eye-sore and the top wooden structures of the buildings on each side are near collapse.
Questions
The 2 rest houses are under the state government.
What are plans of the State Government for these 2 rest houses?
