Housed in a handsome Victorian building, this museum traces Penang’s fascinating history through an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs and artwork.
The museum chronicles the city's transformation culturally, physically and politically since the days of Sir Francis Light, founder of the British colony in Penang in the 1800s. Transport yourself through Penang's past via a wealth of photographs accompanied by first-hand accounts of key events. Galleries of artifacts, including antiques once owned by prominent Chinese Straits families, give a comprehensive glimpse at the Penang of yesteryear.
The dignified structure of white with its high arches and tall columns was originally built as a school in 1821, but was converted into a museum and opened to the public in 1964. The museum is divided into two areas: an art gallery displaying a collection of local and international artwork, and exhibits detailing the city's history.
Wander the corridors of Penang's past through a plethora of photographs, including the series on the Penang Riots of 1867, or pictures depicting Penang during the World War II Japanese occupation. Various oil paintings by Captain Robert Smith of the East India Company allow you to see Penang through the eyes of early British colonists. Walk through the main hall of a Chinese trader's home and inspect the fine collection of furniture such as opium beds, and elaborate accessories like slippers and jewellery previously owned by Straits Chinese families.
Art aficionados will revel in the extensive local art collections located on the ground floor. Some interesting permanent collections include a series of paintings dedicated to Malay seamanship, and several portrayals of old Penang.
A railway car from the old Penang Hill service houses the museum's souvenir kiosk, creating an interesting atmosphere to peruse the souvenirs on sale.
Located along Farquhar Street in central Georgetown, the Penang State Museum is serviced by most major bus lines. It is open daily, except Friday and public holidays, and there is a small charge for entry.
