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Francis Light's Well, George Town, Penang

Francis Light's Well, George Town, PenangFrancis Light's Well, George Town, Penang (30 November 2008)


Francis Light's Well (GPS: 5.42257, 100.33918) is a historica well within the grounds of Convent Light Street, on Light Street, in George Town, Penang. The well dug for the founder of the British trading post of George Town. Upon establishing the settlement, Captain Francis Light built a road which ran from a newly-built pier to his home in Penang. The road was name Light Street while his home, now gone, was located within the compound of school. The girls' school, which was started by Catholic nuns of the Holy Infant Jesus order, came much later on, but enveloped the land that was once occupied by Francis Light.

The extant well was for Francis Light's private use. Another well was then dug for the benefit of the inhabitants of the new settlement. Today, Francis Light's well can still be seen within the compound of Convent Light Street.

Getting there

From the Weld Quay Ferry & Bus Terminal, take Rapid Penang Bus Nos. 10 or 103 to Farquhar Street, in front of St Xavier's Institution. Use the pedestrian bridge to cross Farquhar Street, then walk to Convent Light Street. At Convent Light Street, ask for direction to Francis Light's Well.

Francis Light's Well is on the Map of Light Street, Penang


Francis Light's Well (30 November 2008)


Francis Light's Well history plaque (30 November 2008)

More on Captain Francis Light



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