Tjong A Fie Mansion is one of the historical attractions in Medan. Mr. Tjong (1860-1921) was an entrepreneur from China who successfully built a plantation business in Sumatra. Tjong A Fie donated a bell tower to Medan City Hall Building. He also participated in the construction of Maimun Palace, Archbishop Sugiopranoto Church, a Buddhist temple in Brayan, a Hindu temple for Indians, Batavia Bank, Deli Bank, and bridges on Zainul Arifin Street. The businessman also established the first Chinese hospital in Medan and named it Tjie On Jie Jan. He was quite influential in the development of Medan city. He maintained a harmonious relationship with the Dutch East Indies government, Deli Sultanate, Medan people, and the Chinese empire. To see his mansion on the map, click here.
What’s Special
You can see the history of his house while imagining what happened there about one century ago. Despite the age, this two-story building still stands majestic and is well preserved in its original ancient Chinese architectural design. Malay and European styles influenced the structure. Almost all of the contents of this house are still using old furniture with high historical and artistic value. You can also see some of Tjong A Fie’s photo gallery. There is also a particular room where he kept an extensive collection of books. At least 1,000 items of antique furniture belonging to this family are still on display.
What to Enjoy
The gate is equipped with a small roof typical of houses in China, which was founded in 1900. The walls on the right are filled with photos of Tjong A Fie in the past. It was seen, among other things, when he was with his three wives and children. There is also a photo with the Dutch rulers.
Photos of the Kesawan Bank building he founded and the currency at that time were displayed. The family tree is also exposed. History lessons about the city of Medan began.
From room to room, We continued to listen to every one installed on the wall. There is also neatly arranged furniture. Until you arrive at an open space in the middle, and from there you can see the second floor and the back side of the house.
What to Expect
The entrance fee to this house is Rp35,000 per head for general visitors and Rp20,000 per person for students. The price includes the guide service. The family of Mr. Tjong’s grandchild occupies and manages the residence. It opens daily 09 am – 5 pm.
What Visitors Say
“Well preserved Chinese heritage in Medan. It’s a rather big house but it’s belong to a prominent rich tycoon at its time. The house is a typical Chinese with western influences. Good and interesting experience to walk and enjoy the old furniture and architecture. There’s a Rp35K or USD2,5 cover charge to enter.” Suria Nataadmaja (Source)
“A glimps to Tjong A Fie and his family life. Remembering one of succesful businessman and philantrophy in his era. You got a deja vu of Cheong Fat Tze Blue Mansion of Penang yet each had its own charm. Both can be considered a very succesfull businessman and said Tjong A Fie was Cheong Fat Tze nephew. Each corner on both mansion remind me of their glorious era.” Muftika (Source)
“The first impression of entering this museum is a bit scary in my opinion, yes, the name is an old house that has been around for more than a century plus the lighting is lacking which makes the atmosphere in this museum even more sinister, but fortunately there is a guide and other tour groups, so it’s time to get busy around the museum.” sitaprameswari (Source)
“Aaahh this is a place full of history that has become one of the tourist jewels (Historical Jewel) of Medan and I have wanted to visit for a long time. Even the 2 Foo Lions statues made of granite, even though the colors are starting to fade, still look dashing escorting the arrival of guests like Molly and I.” annienugraha (Source)
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